Car rental New Jersey

The best way to get around New Jersey is in a car. It’s America’s fourth smallest state so everything you’ll want to see is within easy driving distance. Renting your own vehicle gives you the freedom to do it all at your own pace.

You can get from Jersey City in the north to Atlantic City in the south in around two hours, and can drive the entire length of the New Jersey shore in about the same time.

It’s worth noting New Jersey is one of the most densely populated states, which means the highways can become congested at peak times. The main route for long distance travel is Interstate 95 (I-95), better known as the New Jersey Turnpike. It’s the fifth-busiest toll road in the US. If you’re planning on taking these routes be sure to give yourself plenty of time.

Another main road is the Garden State Parkway, connecting the densely populated North Jersey and New York to the towns and cities along the Jersey Shore.

It’s a good idea to acquaint yourself with the state’s driving rules and regulations. One thing to look out for is the ‘jughandle’. This allows traffic turning left at an intersection to use a ramp or slip road on the right side of the road instead of turning left from the left lane.

Unless stated, the top speed limit in the state is 65mph (105km/h) on highways, dropping to 55mph (88km/h) on most interstates. In school zones and business or residential districts, this falls to 25mph (40km/h).

New Jersey's showpiece is the 200km-plus of coastline, filled with beaches, boardwalks, big name resorts and more. But head inland and you’ll discover picturesque mountains and wild forests to explore, as well as many reminders of the state’s proud history. 

Enjoy a day at the beach

From Sandy Hook in the north to Cape May in the south, New Jersey boasts a magnificent coastline of beaches, beautiful barrier islands, fishing villages, majestic lighthouses and scenic views at every turn.

At the heart of it is the famous Jersey Shore - over 140km of pristine, white-sand beaches that provide endless days of surf, sand, sun and fun.

The best beaches are along New Jersey’s Southern Shore, which has something for everyone. Ocean City was once voted ‘Best Beach in America’ by Coastal Living magazine, while Wildwoods offers a lively calendar of year-round events.

The peaceful, attractive resort of Cape May, situated on Delaware Bay, ticks all the boxes with its effortless style and charm. So much so that it’s been the holiday destination of choice for no fewer than six US presidents.

Explore the historical Gateway Region

One of New Jersey’s most popular attractions is the Statue of Liberty. Yes, you read that right. The Statue of Liberty is officially in New Jersey waters, even if Liberty Island on which it sits is owned by New York City.

Across the Hudson from Lady Liberty is Liberty State Park and Ellis Island. It’s a region with a long history, which is best represented in the Immigration Museum, which tells the story of Ellis Island’s role as New York’s main immigration office from 1892 to the mid-twentieth century. Use an audio guide to accompany you around the island to get the most from your visit. Liberty State Park is also the site of the moving Empty Sky Memorial, which honours the New Jersey victims of 9/11.

In New Jersey’s historically rich ‘Gateway Region’, in the town of West Orange, is the Thomas Edison Historical Park. This is the site of the former laboratory and home of scientist Thomas Edison, where America’s greatest inventor created the incandescent lights bulb, the phonograph and the motion picture camera, among many other devices.

Try for a Boardwalk bonanza

Another great highlight of New Jersey is a visit to the resort of Atlantic City, home of the famous four-mile long Boardwalk, which is a great way to experience the city.

People mainly come here to chance their luck at one of the many casino resorts, but Atlantic City offers so much more. You can relax in one of the resort spas or shop in over 100 stores at Tanger Outlets. There’s also regular live music events, a great beach, and the famous Steel Pier.

Shop till you drop

New Jersey is a shopaholic’s dream. It has everything from upscale boutiques to bargain outlets, discount malls and cool markets. As an added bonus, there’s no retail tax on clothing or shoes here.

Westfield Garden State Plaza in Paramus is the largest shopping mall in the Garden State, with 335 stores, dozens of restaurants and a dine-in theatre. Even more impressive is the massive Bridgewater Commons, which has 175 department stores, shops and restaurants.

For something a little different, try the Berlin Farmers Market in Berlin. It’s one of the regions oldest and largest markets, and has been owned by the same family since it started in the 40s.

Explore the Garden State’s beaches, resorts and small towns with a car rental from Hertz.