I’ve been to Bermuda, Panama and California, but have yet to find a beach that can replace the Jersey Shore in my heart. This may be hard to believe, but it’s not the murky water or beach tags that make "going down the shore" so special, it’s following twelve reasons.

1. Salt Water Taffy

Originating in Atlantic City, Salt Water Taffy is a gooey, delicious candy, produced in nearly every flavor imaginable, including watermelon, vanilla, maple, lemon, and many others.

2. The Boardwalk

New Jersey has perfected the concept of the boardwalk, a raised platform offering shops, games, rides, and much more. There are several noteworthy options to visit, from Ocean City to Atlantic City.

3. Pizza

Manco & Manco in Ocean City is my personal favorite, and it seems many others would agree based on the ever present line. Mack’s in Wildwood also deserves recognition, along with Three Brothers, famous for their colossal slices.

4. Ice Cream

As a child, there was nothing more exciting than spotting someone pushing an ice cream cart through the sand, but the deliciousness does not end there. Springer’s in Stone Harbor and Marita’s in Sea Isle receive top honors in my book. For an alternative dessert, try Monkey Bread in Ocean City.

5. Hermit Crabs

These creatures make for very adorable and low maintenance (yet boring) pets, and can be found in nearly every store at the shore.

6. Surfing

Though New Jersey may not immediately come to mind as a prime surfing destination, many will flock to the waters during both the warmer and colder months, with 7^th St. in Ocean City and 30^th St. in Avalon as popular locations.

7. Breakfast

Whether you’re in the mood for pancakes from Uncle Bill's, a caffeinated beverage from Avalon Coffee Co., or a scrumptious feast from Shea’s Café in Alloway, the Jersey Shore has it all.

8. Printed T-shirts

Boardwalk shops will offer a variety of designs to have printed on a t-shirt or hoodie, ranging from the name of the beach to several comical phrases.

9. Fudge

Candy shops will often have an employee positioned outside to offer samples of their delicious fudge, and I will absolutely grab a piece every time that I walk past.

10. Sunsets

Each night, the sky is illuminated with stunning shades reflecting off the ocean water. Be sure to visit Sunset Beach in Cape May for a truly spectacular sight.

11. Mini Golf

For those with a competitive spirit, mini golf courses can be noticed on nearly every corner. Pirate Island Golf is a staple of the shore, with multiple award-winning locations throughout New Jersey.

12. Surrey Bikes

Though I’ve never attempted to pedal one, these multiple-person bicycle seem to be a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike, with a designated lane to ride down the boardwalk. For a less strenuous option, Wildwood offers the memorable "tram car" to transport passengers.