Plan Your Visit to
Tuckerton Seaport!
There is so much to see and do at Tuckerton Seaport. Use our exhibits and experiences guide or our ferry schedule to plan your fun-filled day. Tickets are available at the Lighthouse upon arrival. We are offering $5 admission throughout the year!
The recreated Tuckerton Yacht Club is home to the Seaport’s offices as well as the Life on the Edge Exhibit. On the 3rd floor, the Jacques Cousteau National Estuarine Research Reserve presents numerous hands-on, interactive exhibits to provide an overview of Barnegat Bay’s natural environment.
The Hunting Shanty is what started it all at the Seaport. This was the original building that founded the Barnegat Bay Decoy & Baymen’s Museum, later known as Tuckerton Seaport & Baymen’s Museum. Today, it houses our collection of decoys, primarily in the Barnegat Bay carving style. You will also find a few Delaware River and Chesapeake styles. The decoys are beautiful, functional, and you can even touch a few.
The Union Market & Gallery is powered by local female entrepreneurs with a passion for the creative and a devotion to the community. The owners are fully committed to the establishment of a makers- driven, patron-focused destination. Guests can expect an exceptional cup of coffee, all-day breakfast & lunch made to order, fresh juices & smoothies, a curated collection of handmade, eco-friendly, sustainable goods and an inviting space in which to enjoy it all. They are open daily 7am to 3pm year round.
This is one of 3 historic buildings at the Seaport. Originally built in 1825 for Edmund Bartlett, it was expanded upon over the years, combining late Federal and early Victorian styles. The Captain’s House is now home to Lady Magpie’s Tea & Curiosities, a tea room inspired by the Steampunk aesthetic and a desire to preserve local history. Lady Magpie features a constantly changing menu, freshly baked scones, homemade breads, and delicious desserts!
As early as 1699, a sawmill in Tuckerton was turning the dense forests into lumber for shipbuilding and export. Cranberry and sphagnum moss industries are exhibited as well as the Elizabeth White blueberry industry story.
The original Perrine’s Boatworks operated from 1900 to 1956, but our recreation is dedicated to Barnegat Bay’s long history of handmade, indigenous, wooden boats. Boats like the sneakbox, which was invented in 1830 less than 10 miles from Tuckerton in West Creek, have characteristics that were inspired by the place they were created. View some of our collection of sneakboxes by the Boatworks and keep an eye out for others around the Seaport.
Get off the beaten path and explore this 1⁄4 mile Nature Trail at the Tuckerton Seaport. Experience a bit of the Pine Barrens with this short walk where there is plenty to discover. Search for the Loblolly pine trees, one of which is the largest in Ocean county and second largest in the state of New Jersey. This trail is also home to a variety of birds and other animals, so be sure to keep a look out!
Why is a lighthouse so far away from the shore? Well our Lighthouse is a replica of the original Tucker’s Island Lighthouse that was built in 1848 and fell into the sea in 1927. It’s not an active lighthouse, but it still lights at night and can be climbed to the very top for a beautiful view. The Lighthouse houses exhibits on Tuckerton, folk art, and lighthouses. Be sure to check out the gift shop as well for a souvenir.
All aboard the Seaport’s Floating Classroom, the Pohatcong II. This dock is where you can board for creek tours, specialty group tours, sunset sails, and the Ferry to LBI. Click For more information about tours, tickets, reservations, and details.
Our recreation of Hester Sedge Gun club, one of the oldest active gun clubs on the bay, depicts what the club looked like in the 1940s to 1960s. Amenities like the gas stove and electric lights show what elite gun clubs offered their members. The original was built in 1926 and still exists today on hither Island in Little Egg Harbor Bay.
This is a recreation of Jay C. Parker’s original decoy shop. Parker was a local famous and skilled decoy carver, whose talents were demonstrated at the 1964-65 World’s Fair in New York. Today you can see the Seaport’s carvers demonstrating their craft and keeping the art of Barnegat Bay decoy carving alive. Look around the corner for our Blacksmith Shop, where there are frequent blacksmith demonstrations. Feel the heat of the forge, hear the hammer striking iron, and see useful pieces and artistic creations being forged before your very eyes.
A re-creation of Hurley Conklin’s (1913- 1991) decoy carving shop. Conklin is considered one of the last of the old time Barnegat Bay carvers. This building is currently an active workshop often used by the Seaport’s Youth Carving Club. The Club serves as a way for the carvers of today to pass their trade on to the next generation.
This recreated pound fishery from Beach Haven Terrace on Long Beach Island is a hands on buying and selling seafood experience. Outside is a large model of a system of nets called pound nets that have been used by Native Americans into modern times.
This is a recreation of an 1847 building originally located in Harvey Cedars, Long Beach Island. It was constructed as one of the first US Lifesaving Service shelters, but was eventually moved to Dock Road in Beach Haven in 1872. It became a boarding hotel in its new life and called Hotel DeCrab to attract more elegant clientele. The exhibit features charter head boats, recreational fishing and catastrophic storms. Check in for seasonal exhibits and activities as well.
Housed inside the recreated Marshelder Gun Club, the NJ Surf Museum is one of the largest museums dedicated to surfing on the East Coast. It features the stories of local surfers, the connection of baymen and surfing, and the influence of surf culture. See over 50 surfboards, and memorabilia from the last 100 years and learn about the science of surfing and waves. Make sure to take a picture of you catching a wave on a longboard!
This building is a replica of Napoleon Kelly’s oyster house which was originally located on Westcunk Creek in West Creek. The original building existed from 1860 to 1920, shipping huge amounts of oysters from Little Egg Harbor Bay to Philadelphia and New York. The exhibit inside presents the research on the bay and shellfish industry the New Jersey Department of Agriculture has collected for over one hundred years.
Tuckerton Seaport is proud to host the Jersey Shore Folklife Center, one of only 5 Folklife Centers in New Jersey. Jersey Shore Folklife Center at Tuckerton Seaport documents, supports, and presents the diverse communities and traditions of the Jersey Shore and the Pinelands. This building houses folk arts classes and special crafting events. Stop in on your trip for a complimentary make and take crafts.
Our replica of the original 1930 Parsons building is a tribute to the five generations who have made their living off the bounty of the bay. It displays tools, equipment, and artifacts from one of the most influential industries on the Jersey Shore. Try your hand at clamming in our sad table while you learn about the history of the industry.
Play a few holes of educational mini-golf. Each hole has a New Jersey related fun fact.
Our real 1966 self-righting 44 foot MLB (Motorized Life Boat) was donated to the Seaport in 2015. This vessel served its entire USCG Career on Long Beach Island until 1996.
Tours for Schools and Groups
Floating Classroom Boat Tour
Perfect for education pods, families, or small groups, the Seaport’s Floating Classroom Boat Tour of Tuckerton Creek is a one hour tour designed to get you outdoors and exploring the folk art, history, and environment of the Barnegat Bay and Pinelands. Each boat ride features a live tour guide who brings along artifacts from the museum collection to make this an educational on water experience. Use this curriculum guide to help you prepare to make the most of your experience!
Planning Your Field Trip
- Length: Customizable: typical tour takes 2-4 hours.
- Availability: Weekdays May–October.
- Capacity: Typically tours are scheduled for groups with total attendees of between 10 to 80 people (including students, staff, chaperones). Multiple days can be arranged for larger groups.
- Cost: The cost of the standard Floating Classroom tour is $15 per person. This includes the boat ride for up to 80 people and stops on the Tuckerton Seaport and Baymen’s Museum site.
- When and how to book: Please contact us directly by calling 609-296-8868 or register online.
- Book early: We care deeply about allowing as many students as possible a chance to participate in the Floating Classroom program. Bookings are limited and dates go quickly, so book your tours as early in the year as possible.
- Cancellations: within 24 hours of your trip fees are non-refundable.
Field Trip Elements can include:
- Land & Sea Tour ($15/person – 90 minutes) Join us aboard our Floating Classroom for a tour down the Tuckerton Creek. Then, tour our featured spaces with a docent who will teach your group about the interdependence of environment, history, folklife traditions, and occupations in the Barnegat Bay and Pinelands.
- Magnet Flattie Painting (additional $10/person – 45 minutes) – Learn about Red Knots and Horseshoe Crabs while you paint flat, wooden decoy shorebirds called “flatties” to take home. These flatties will be painted on one side and have magnets on the back!
- Standing Flattie Painting (additional $13/person – 45 minutes) – Learn about Red Knots and Horseshoe Crabs while you paint flat, wooden decoy shorebirds called “flatties” to take home. These flatties will be painted on two sides and stand with a wooden dowel and stand!
- Fiber Arts: Felted Sheep Figures: (additional $10/person – 30 minutes) Learn about the animals here at the Seaport and make tiny barnyard animals with wool from our very own Seaport sheep!
Self-Guided Tour
Visit with some friends or family and take a leisurely stroll through the Seaport! Plan your self-guided tour using our Seaport Site Guide!
Guided Group Tour
Groups of ten (10) or more can schedule a guided group tour, led by our knowledgeable staff. Please contact 609-296-8868 with any questions or to schedule your tour today!
Planning Your Guided Group Tour
- Length: Customizable: typical tour takes 2-4 hours.
- Availability: Weekdays and Weekends available year round. Please contact the Seaport for a date that works best for your needs.
- Capacity: Group tours require a minimum of 10 total attendees with no more than 80 in attendance on a single day. Multiple days can be arranged for larger groups.
- Cost: Pricing varies by tour type. Walking only tours are $10 a person. Tours which include a ride aboard the Floating Classroom are $15 a person. A deposit of $100 is necessary to reserve your tour date. All payments must be received at least two weeks in advance.
- When and how to book: Please contact us directly by calling 609-296-8868.
- Cancellations: within 24 hours of your trip fees are non-refundable.
Guided Group Tour Elements can include:
- Walking Tour ($10/person) Tour our featured spaces with a docent who will teach your group about the interdependence of environment, history, folklife traditions, and occupations in the Barnegat Bay and Pinelands. Then, take time to explore the Seaport on your own- climb to the top of the lighthouse, or take walk along our nature trail.
- Land & Sea Tour ($15/person) Join us aboard our Floating Classroom for a tour down the Tuckerton Creek. Then, tour our featured spaces with a docent who will teach your group about the interdependence of environment, history, folklife traditions, and occupations in the Barnegat Bay and Pinelands.
- Demonstrations: Ask about our folk artists and demonstrators who may be available during your visit.
Virtual Tour
Can’t make it down to the Seaport for a visit – or want a preview before you come? Click the images below to check out our virtual tour!
Nearby Attractions
The Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce is a strong network of businesses who work together to foster a prosperous climate for economic development and business growth in Southern Ocean County. The year-round visitor center has information on all your LBI favorites.
Batsto Village is an historic site in the South Central Pinelands of New Jersey. It is known throughout the country, both for its beauty and its historical significance. Batsto has roots dating back to 1766, with nearly two and a half centuries of American history available for our visitors to see, all with the lovely Pinelands as a scenic backdrop.
Historic Smithville started as a simple, one room, stage coach stop. Over the last 50 years it has blossomed into a wonderful memory-making way to spend a day or two! When entering any of our 60 shoppes you will feel the hometown, small business feel. Wander along our cobblestone walkways and over our foot bridges to discover a village that seems as if it were frozen in time.The carefully manicured grounds and attention to detail make Historic Smithville a breath of fresh air and a place you will want to visit again and again.
Nestled in Southern Ocean County between the Pine Barrens and the Bay, Tuckerton Borough was once a thriving seaport community. Rich in history, visitors are encouraged to walk our streets, shop our quaint stores, and enjoy our many fine eating establishments; or if you prefer, go hiking, biking or rent a kayak!
“Tip” Seaman County Park, located on the shores of Lake Pohatcong, is probably best-known as the site of the Ocean County Decoy and Gunning Show. This two-day event draws exhibitors and visitors from the entire eastern seaboard and beyond and has been named as one of the top 100 events in North America. Facilities include
fishing, open play area, picnic area, playground, ADA accessible restrooms, small boat launch, Little League field, softball field, walking paths, and tennis courts, and basketball court.
Ocean County is home to one-third of the fabulous Jersey Shore–44 miles of the Atlantic Ocean coastline with sandy beaches, inviting surf, fantastic fishing and great water sports.
Local Dining
Located next to the Yacht Club on the grounds of the Seaport, The Union Market & Gallery was conceived through a collusion of local female entrepreneurs with a passion for the creative and a devotion to the community. Being avid arts advocates, the owners promote working with your hands as a lifestyle, and are fully committed to the establishment of a makers-driven, patron-focused destination. At The Union Market, guests can expect an exceptional cup of coffee, all day breakfast & lunch, small bites from a few of the area’s local kitchens, an ever-changing collection of work from talented artisans, and an inviting space in which to enjoy it all.
Located at the Captain’s House at the Seaport, Lady Magpie’s Tea and Curiosities is the perfect place for a spot of tea. The tea room is inspired by the Steampunk aesthetic and a desire to preserve local history. Lady Magpie features a constantly changing menu, freshly baked scones, homemade breads, and delicious desserts! The gift shop contains wonderful creations including upcycled, repurposed china and other curiosities. Reservations are required.
The Grapevine, located at 363 East Main Street, is a casual sit-down restaurant for hearty Italian classics, plus seafood, steaks and weekly live music. It’s a great place for a good family meal.
For the best pizza and cheesesteaks in town, visit Naples Pizzeria in the Acme shopping center located at 425 W Main Street. You can also order from a full menu of delicious Italian dishes including eggplant rollatini, paninis, shrimp fra diavolo, and one of our favorites Frank’s grilled chicken sandwich (chicken, provolone, asparagus and roasted red peppers on a Kaiser roll).
Located within walking distance from the Seaport at 210 W Main Street, Doyle’s Pour House is a great place to relax after a long day walking through the Seaport. Their full bar and fantastic Irish pub style menu include the best wings around (order them “back on the grill” for an extra special treat!).
At Mickey’s Port of Call Pub, they offer great food and drinks at affordable prices. From seafood and steak to burgers and sandwiches, they cook up some of the best food in town. For over 20 years, Tuckerton residents have been meeting up with friends and family at the pub, enjoying a variety of food options, while taking advantage of their full bar.
Allen’s Clam Bar is about 6 miles south of the Seaport at 5650 U.S. 9, New Gretna, but it’s worth the trip. A favorite of Coastal Living Magazine and plenty of happy patrons, Allen’s Clam Bar never disappoints with its menu and friendly service. This BYOB seafood restaurant has everything your seafood loving self would want: peel and eat shrimp, flounder sandwiches, combination platters, chowders and their famous fried lobster tails to mention a few items.
Located in the Viking Yachting Center in New Gretna on the gorgeous Bass River, Breeze’s Dock Bar and Grill offers indoor and outdoor seating, a full bar, live entertainment weekly, daily menu specials, and a fabulous menu including items such as lobster mac & cheese, blackened salmon sandwiches, and (our favorite) fish tacos. If you decided to take your boat to the Seaport, you can hop right back in it for a quick cruise to Breezes and dock right alongside the restaurant at their transient docks! Of course, driving is always an option, too.
For a complete list of local restaurants, check out TripAdvisor.com.
Places to Stay
Relax and enjoy camping at Baker’s Acres, for the time of your life in Spring, Summer and Fall. We offer over 300 large and shaded campsites set amidst 60 acres of mountain laurel and natural splendor at the edge of the beautiful New Jersey Pinelands. Our outstanding recreational amenities include a wide range of organized activities and special seasonal events, in addition to swimming in our large pool, night and day. Our traditional annual events and our loyal base of return campers combine to earn Baker’s Acres its motto as the campground “where friends are made for life.”
Our oceanfront location promises you refreshing Jersey Shore vacations for couples and families no matter what the season. For more than 20 years, our lodging has provided you all the fun and relaxation that the Jersey Shore can hold. Drifting Sands is located on Long Beach Island just footsteps from the surf and within walking distance of seaside shops, restaurants and entertainment.
With a prime setting in the heart of the Jersey Shore, the Holiday Inn® Manahawkin – Long Beach Island hotel is centrally located and close to the area’s best attractions. The Jersey Shore is a perfect place to escape, and this Manahawkin hotel’s got everything you need for a great time. By choosing this hotel’s location near Long Beach Island, NJ, incredible beaches are just minutes away. After a day at the beach or surfing, you can enjoy other exciting attractions, including Tuckerton Seaport and Fantasy Island Amusement Park.
Sea Pirate Campground is located on the Jersey Shore just a few minutes away from Long Beach Island. We are also located 30 minutes south of Sea Side Heights and 30 minutes north of Atlantic City. This is a family friendly campground that has been owned and operated by the same family of over forty years now. Book Captain Cottages, Deluxe Cabins, Basic Cabins, Seasonal Sites, RV sites, and more. The campground is pet-friendly.
For a complete list of local accommodations, check out TripAdvisor.com.
Accessibility
The Seaport strives to make its programs accessible to all. We maintain an ADA Advisory Board, provide large print materials upon request, have accessible parking and entrances, and adapt classes and programs to assist individuals with special needs. An American Sign Language or Spanish language interpreter can be provided without charge with two-weeks advance request. Visitors may also use one of our folding wheelchairs.