atlantic highlands, nj .

Yesterday I took the time to go out and revisit a part of NJ I haven't been to a long time. Not only was it great to go back and visit and dig up some memories, but I got to take a great girl along with me on a date. First, a little bit about the Highlands area of NJ... It's basically like combining a beach town with California with the NY skyline with woods and cliffs. I mean, seriously, it's a bit of everything. You can't NOT like this place.


The downtown is a real small town feel, and they got the ma-and-pop diners and eateries and the bars down by the marina where lots of people I know store their boats. It's a place I think would be really nice to spend some serious time in... whether that be in a beach house or shore house or whatever you call it. It sure would be interesting to live in such a hill area (I can't help thinking that that would be an absolute nightmare in the winter time because many of the roads are so steep and narrow). If you like the water and a nice cool breeze, this is the place to go. It's quiet, it's serene, and it's beautiful. Okay; I'll stop gushing now...

We first went up to Twin Lights, appropriately located on Lighthouse Rd, which provides a fantastic view of Sandy Hook, as well as the New York City skyline in the distance. After walking around the grounds of the old lighthouse (which I suppose could sort of be two lighthouses because there are technically two of them).

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Next we headed down towards the shore and the Henry Hudson Trail. It runs right along the water, and you can see Sandy Hook stretch out all along the sea from Southeast to Northwest. In the distance, again, lies New York City, and down by the water, the weather was absolutely perfect. We were able to meander along, chat, and just enjoy the day together. Yes, it was hot, but there was a breeze and in the shade it felt great outside.

In the end, I don't think I could've been happier with the day. Great weather, great company, great location -- end of story.