Labor Day: Jersey Shore vs. Florida’s Space Coast

Having spent plenty of years in New Jersey, I know what Labor Day weekend “down the shore” looks like.

First, you pack the car. Then you pack your patience.

Because before your toes ever touch the sand, there’s the Garden State Parkway—where half of New Jersey seems to be heading south at exactly the same time.

Then there’s finding parking, hauling everything to the beach and, depending on the town, paying for a beach badge just for the privilege of sitting on the sand.

Now compare that with Florida’s Space Coast.

From Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral to Satellite Beach, Indialantic and Melbourne Beach, we have miles of beautiful Atlantic coastline—and you don’t need to buy a beach pass to enjoy it. Find your favorite beach access, kick off your flip-flops and enjoy. (You may have to pay for parking at some locations, but the beach itself is free.)

And here’s my favorite difference:

Labor Day doesn’t mean the end of beach season.

September becomes October, and we’re still walking the beach, surfing, fishing, watching sunrises and occasionally looking up to watch a rocket launch.

In New Jersey, Labor Day feels like summer’s farewell.

On Florida’s Space Coast, it’s pretty much just Monday.

Thinking about trading “down the shore” for life at the beach? I’d be happy to show you around.