South Amboy is a diverse community and gateway to the Jersey Shore
Nicknamed “the Gateway to the Shore,” South Amboy has a diverse feel as both a city in the New York metropolitan area and one of the northernmost towns along the Jersey Shore. With rail access to the “Big Apple”, a scenic stretch of waterfront parkland, hundreds of colonial homes lining its streets, and a wealth of restaurants along Broadway, South Amboy abounds in both convenience and charm. South Amboy’s history dates to the Dutch and English colonization of New Jersey during the 17th century, and became a township in 1685, experienced the Revolutionary War, and eventually evolved into a city due to the arrival of the railroad in the 1830s. This city developed a multicultural character as new arrivals from across the world propelled its industry, and this city has continued its traditions of being a railroad hub and an oasis of diversity into the 21st century. South Amboy’s rich history can be experienced by walking down its historic streets, experiencing the culinary hub of Broadway, and attending the city’s cultural events, such as its Polish Food Fest and its lively Irish Festival.
Buyers will find many Colonial Revivals
South Amboy’s homes reflect this city’s long and rich history. Its streets are lined with an abundance of colonial-style homes, with the occasional Queen Anne residence providing some extra historical character to each block. South Amboy’s more recent, industrial history manifests itself in the presence of several ranch-style homes, built in the 1980s, not far from the railroad tracks. South Amboy has an average home price of $395,000, significantly below the state average of $500,000.
Rail travel remains prominent
Local Realtor Jennie Esposito shares that South Amboy has a “breathtaking view of the New York skyline, Verrazzano Bridge, and Raritan Bay,” adding that it is “minutes away from the New York train, restaurants, shops, and parks, plus easy access to main roads and the airport.” South Amboy’s heritage as a rail hub has not faded since its heyday, as South Amboy is home to an NJ Transit train station that carries passengers from up the Jersey Shore to Newark, and from there to New York City and beyond. In addition, the Raritan River Bridge – carrying the Garden State Parkway – is passed over by thousands of motorists commuting to North Jersey or New York and back, truly making South Amboy the “Gateway to the Shore.”
Raritan Bay Waterfront Park has sports fields and playgrounds
The view of New York City and South Amboy’s very own Great Beds Lighthouse can be best observed from the Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, a massive green space with sports fields, a playground, gazebos, and an Iraq War monument dedicated to the memory of the late Sergeant Benjamin L. Sebban. This park offers opportunities for exercise in the sun, whether it is through soccer, football, or a simple stroll along the Raritan Bayshore.
Many go to Broadway for barbecue, beer and live music
Broadway, one of South Amboy’s main avenues, is home to some of the town’s best eateries, from the barbecue, beer, and live music at the Blue Moon bar to the pizzas and eggplant at Sciortino’s Harbor Lights, the famous Broadway Bagels bakery, and the Oriental House Chinese restaurant. Each of these restaurants offers its own unique selection to suit diverse tastes and contribute greatly to the vibrant culture of this suburban city.
Students may attend South Amboy schools
South Amboy’s students attend the South Amboy Elementary School and the South Amboy Middle High School, the latter of which is known for its athletics.
![John Georgiadis]()
Photography Contributed By
John Georgiadis
