Most People Stop for Lucy, But They’re Missing New Jersey’s Cutest and Quirkiest Shore Town

Every summer, millions of people head to the Jersey Shore, filling up the beaches and boardwalks in the state's most popular coastal towns. While those destinations deserve the attention they get, there's one charming little town that somehow continues to fly under the radar.

If you're looking for New Jersey's quirkiest and most underrated shore town, I have the answer for you: Margate City, thanks to onlyinyourstate.com.

Why Margate City Deserves More Attention

It's really no surprise that Margate City is one of the state's best hidden gems. It has everything you'd want in a relaxing beach town, beautiful beaches, friendly neighborhoods, unique shops, and plenty of local charm, but without the overwhelming crowds you'll find in some of the bigger shore destinations.

Lucy the Elephant Is Just the Beginning

Of course, Margate is best known as the home of Lucy the Elephant, one of New Jersey's most recognizable landmarks. Standing six stories tall, Lucy has been welcoming visitors for generations and is one of those places that instantly puts a smile on your face. It's quirky, it's fun, and it's completely unique.

The funny thing is that many people stop in, snap a few pictures with Lucy, and then immediately head off to another Jersey Shore town.

They're missing out.

Margate City deserves much more than a quick photo stop.

The Shopping District Is Full of Small-Town Charm

Take a walk through town and you'll discover adorable boutiques, gift shops, cafes, bakeries, and restaurants that make spending an afternoon, or even an entire weekend, completely worthwhile. The shopping district has that classic small-town feel where it's easy to wander from store to store without feeling rushed.

Slow Down and Enjoy the Shore

There's something refreshing about Margate. It doesn't try to compete with louder boardwalk towns. Instead, it embraces its laid-back personality, making it the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the shore at your own pace.

Whether you're grabbing lunch, browsing the local shops, relaxing on the beach, or simply taking in the coastal atmosphere, it's easy to understand why so many people who discover Margate end up coming back year after year.

Sometimes the best places are the ones that don't make every "must-visit" list.

Keep Reading: Three New Jersey Towns are Some of the Most Charming in America

So the next time you're planning a Jersey Shore day trip, don't just stop to see Lucy the Elephant before moving on. Stay awhile in Margate City.

You just might discover one of New Jersey's cutest, and most underrated, shore towns.