JERSEY SHORE – This season, summer at the Jersey shore was thriving after a rough 2020 when many businesses and beaches were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite the pandemic still developing throughout the state in 2021, tourism didn’t seem to be affected much. However, a common theme throughout several businesses in both Ocean and Monmouth counties seemed to be staffing shortages, although this was an issue in the entire state.
Now that the summer season has officially come to a close, here’s what officials have to say about the summer tourism for 2021:
In Ocean County, Lori Pepenella, the CEO of the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce, explained how businesses have been in full demand this summer in the Long Beach Island area.
“We have been running on high occupancy in all aspects of lodging, exceeding pre-pandemic in some weeks. Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce serves the official Destination Marketing Organization for the region and have been marketing to fill the demand for drive-to destinations and the rescheduling of celebratory gatherings to help our economy keep pace this past season,” Pepenella said. “There was increased confidence with traveling into our area, we found people seeking more information in advance to help them plan to fit all comfort levels. We have had the opportunity to cut the ribbon on many new and expanded businesses this season adding more reason for people to explore.”
Pepenella stated that finding seasonal employees is always a concern each summer for several businesses.
“Since this crisis continues to produce shifts in routines, procedures and availability, there are various reasons that retention of a seasonal, part-time and full-time workforce will still be a challenge. Many businesses have shared that adjusting hours of operation, products and services to accommodate ongoing labor and supply shortages will continue into the fall.”
Over at Six Flags Great Adventure, which is a major attraction to visitors of Ocean County and beyond, the park was busier than ever with many people excited to return.
“It’s been a very busy summer at Six Flags. People were very eager to return to the theme park to enjoy their favorite rides, plus new rides like the triple record-breaking Jersey Devil Coaster and limited-time attractions like Xpedition Dino. With the consistent heat, our waterpark Hurricane Harbor reached capacity many times,” spokesperson Kristin Fitzgerald said. “Our Wild Safari Drive-Thru Adventure also remained very popular. The self-guided safari experience is very unique, plus, it presents a safe and socially distant way for people to enjoy the animals from the privacy and comfort of their own vehicles. This is a great option for those who aren’t comfortable being around crowds.”
As for staffing, Six Flags actually raised their wages this year to remain competitive with other businesses.
“Hiring has been on par with prior years. Staffing is a year-round process for us, since we operate through all four seasons. While we have various positions available, scare actors can earn $17.50 an hour as their base pay before bonuses (for example). This is up from $15 and hour last season,” Fitzgerald said. “Operating in an outdoor environment during the pandemic has been a plus for team members who don’t feel comfortable working indoors.”
During Labor Day weekend, beaches and boardwalks throughout the Jersey shore were full of visitors and locals.
Karen Carey, an Ocean County resident who frequently visits the Seaside Heights boardwalk, said she’s happy to out with friends and family. Although, she feels that the boardwalk was just as crowded last year as it is this year.
“Actually, last year I was out on the boardwalk all last summer. My daughter has a house here so we’re always in the area. I mean, last summer the boardwalk was packed and almost everything was opened,” Carey said. “To me, this summer isn’t any different from last summer, because it’s just as crowded as last summer. It is weird to not wear a mask being indoors, but it’s nice to see people.”
In Monmouth County, Commissioner Director Tom Arnone said despite the challenges the COVID-19 pandemic brought to tourism, this summer was indeed busy.
“While final beach revenue numbers are yet to be finalized as many towns charge through September, it is very clear that this summer at the Jersey Shore in Monmouth County was incredibly busy. The beaches, even in the midst of the pandemic in 2020, never really saw a decrease,” Arnone said. “The only thing that may have hindered attendance were the daily capacity limits many towns had in place in 2020. Regardless, the 2020 season had record-breaking beach badge revenue and we anticipate 2021’s summer totals to be on track with another successful season.”
Although many businesses had staffing issues this year, places at the shore were still overflowing with visitors.
“Businesses were busy and restaurants were packed. However, due to staffing shortages seen everywhere in the state, not as many parties could be served since there was not enough coverage. Regardless, restaurants were busy throughout the summer and continue to be busy as we enter the ‘local summer’ season,” Arnone said. “Visitors and locals alike took precautions and businesses put safety measures in place to keep their patrons safe.”
“I also wanted to take this opportunity to note that the fall is one of the best times of the year to visit Monmouth County. There’s so much to do from fall festivals to enjoying the beautiful park system. More information about all of the great things to do this fall is available at tourism.visitmonmouth.com.”
