Explore Wildwood, NJ:
Your Ultimate Jersey Shore Guide
Wildwood, New Jersey: A Jersey Shore Family Destination with A "Doo-Wop" heritage, fantastic beaches, and a world-class boardwalk with amusement piers
Wildwood: Your Economical Solution for Family Fun
Wildwood, a favored beach spot in South Jersey, provides families with a cost-effective and activity-filled summer retreat.
It's packed with a range of attractions from seaside fun to thrilling amusement rides.
Wildwood, a Jersey Shore gem is known for its fantastic beaches that are second to none on the east coast. The beaches are pristine, soft, and wide. Plus, they are free - a unique feature amongst New Jersey beaches.
And then there's the awesome boardwalk. The marquee feature at this family destination is its world-class boardwalk. Spanning two miles or 38 blocks along the North Wildwood and Wildwood shoreline, it promises a fulfilling time. Laden with amusement piers, a variety of eateries, and shops selling traditional saltwater taffy. Get ready to experience an array of rides, a number so vast that it outnumbers even Disneyland's repertoire.
Fascinated by Wildwood's Doo Wop vibe, visitors are drawn to its captivating architecture and nostalgic '50s and '60s music, immersing themselves in a bygone era's history.
When you want a family vacation that's light on the wallet but heavy on the fun, Wildwood stands out.
With its array of moderately priced hotels and eateries, it not only fits your budget but also offers a wealth of activities for everyone.
The Wildwoods offer an extended summer season, thriving until the end of September, and gradually winding down in October. Relaxing by the shore, the warm water prolongs the feeling of summer.
From its distinguishing Doo Wop cultural influence on the vibrant beach life, Wildwood ensures an memorable summer through fall vacation experience for families.
The Wildwoods Encompass Three Popular Tourist Municipalities:
North Wildwood, Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest
North Wildwood
Features a quarter mile wide beach, motels, restaurants, and beds & breakfasts. This northern most municipality of the Wildwood's is a popular destination for family fun and entertainment with ten blocks of the northern end of the Boardwalk filled with roller coaster rides, food and ice cream stands, and saltwater taffy. It has a tram which transports vacationers throughout the length of the boardwalk. It is also host to many ethnic festivals including the Italian and Irish festivals.
Wildwood
Located in between North Wildwood and Wildwood Crest, this is the center of activity with the Convention Center, the business district, and the heart of the Boardwalk with Amusements.
Wildwood Crest
More of a residential area than either of it's two northern neighbors but still shares the Doo-Wop motel architecture. The setting of this town is more natural, especially with sand dunes and dune grass.
Travel Seasons of Wildwood: Best Times to Visit
The best time to visit Wildwood, New Jersey depends on your vacation priorities. The Peak Season runs from late June through Labor Day, with average temperatures in the 80s°F and ocean temperatures peaking in the mid-70s°F. This is the time for classic summer fun, but expect the largest crowds and highest prices. The Shoulder Seasons (May-early June and September-October) are a local favorite, offering pleasant weather in the 60s-70s°F, significantly fewer crowds, and lower prices on accommodations. These months are perfect for enjoying the boardwalk, biking, and attending popular events like the Irish Fall Festival. Many fall activities Wildwood Crest NJ and beyond are best enjoyed during this milder, less crowded time. The Off-Season (November-April) is very quiet, with most boardwalk attractions and many restaurants closed. However, it's a peaceful time for beachcombing and enjoying the lowest hotel rates of the year.
Family-Friendly Things to Do in the Wildwoods
- Enjoy the Free Beaches: Unlike most Jersey Shore towns, the beaches in Wildwood are completely free—no beach tags required! The incredibly wide, soft sand provides ample space for families to spread out, build sandcastles, and play. Lifeguards are on duty daily throughout the summer season for your safety.
- Thrills at Morey's Piers & Beachfront Water Parks: The iconic Wildwood boardwalk attractions are a must-do. With three amusement piers and two water parks, there's something for everyone. Younger kids will love the gentle rides and the lazy river at Raging Waters, while thrill-seekers can tackle the roller coasters. Buying wristbands online in advance can save money.
- Ride the Sightseer Tram Car: Give tired little legs a break with a ride on the famous "Watch the Tram Car, Please!" tram. It's a fun, nostalgic way to see the entire two-mile boardwalk and is an attraction in itself for all ages.
- Play a Round of Miniature Golf: Wildwood is home to numerous creative and elaborate mini-golf courses. From pirate adventures to jungle themes, it's an affordable activity the whole family can enjoy together, day or night.
- Morning Bike Rides: Rent bikes for the whole family and enjoy a peaceful morning ride on the boardwalk. Bicycles are permitted until 11 a.m. daily in-season, offering a great way to get some exercise before the crowds arrive.
- Explore the Bay Side: Head over to the west side of the island for crabbing, fishing, and water sports. Places like Lakeview Docks offer rentals for kayaks and paddleboards, providing a different kind of water fun.
- Friday Night Fireworks: A beloved summer tradition, fireworks light up the sky every Friday night at 10 p.m. from the Pine Avenue beach. Find a spot on the boardwalk or the sand for a spectacular free show.
- Rainy Day Fun: If the weather doesn't cooperate, duck into the Doo Wop Preservation League Museum to see mid-century artifacts or visit the arcades along the boardwalk for some classic Skee-Ball and video games.
Your Wildwoods Vacation Planning Checklist
Book Lodging Early: For the best selection and prices, especially for stays in July and August, book your hotel, motel, or rental 6-12 months in advance. Confirm if free parking is included.
Pre-Purchase Attraction Passes: Check the Morey's Piers website before your trip. You can often buy ride and water park wristbands online at a discount compared to purchasing them on the boardwalk.
Create a Loose Itinerary: Plan which days you'll hit the beach, piers, and other attractions. Building a flexible Wildwood travel itinerary helps maximize your time without being too rigid.
Check the Events Calendar: Look up what festivals, free concerts, or weekly fireworks are happening during your stay. This can add extra value and fun to your vacation.
Pack Smart: In addition to swimsuits and beach towels, bring sunscreen, hats, aloe vera, and light jackets or sweatshirts for cooler evenings on the boardwalk.
Plan for a Rainy Day: Have a few indoor activities in mind, such as visiting the Doo Wop Preservation League Museum, catching a movie, or exploring the boardwalk arcades.
Suggested Wildwood Travel Itinerary for Families with Kids
Make the Most of Your Shore Adventure!
A playful yet practical guide for unforgettable family fun
🗓️ 3-Day Itinerary Overview
| Day | Theme | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Boardwalk Bliss | Rides, snacks, and sunset strolls |
| 2 | Beach Day Bash | Sandy fun, nature walks, and dolphin spotting |
| 3 | Nostalgia & Nature | Museums, biking, and picnic-perfect moments |
📍 Day 1: Boardwalk Bliss
- Breakfast: Marvis Diner – retro vibes & kid-friendly pancakes 🥞
- Morning: Explore Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks 🎢
- Lunch: Sam’s Pizza Palace – a Wildwood legend 🍕
- Afternoon: Try mini-golf at Adventure Pier ⛳
- Dinner: Curley’s Fries & Kohr Bros Frozen Custard by the beach 🍦
- Evening: Watch the sunset from the Ferris wheel 🎡
🏖️ Day 2: Beach Day Bash
- Breakfast: Bagel Time Café – grab-and-go goodness
- Morning: Family beach setup at Wildwood Crest (less crowded!) 🏖️
- Lunch: Pack a cooler or swing by The Jellyfish Café 🧺
- Afternoon: Dolphin cruise or kayak rental adventure 🚤
- Dinner: The Surfing Pig – casual waterfront dining 🐷
- Evening: Free summer concert at Fox Park 🎶
🏞️ Day 3: Nostalgia & Nature
- Breakfast: Key West Café – tropical feel without the airfare 🌴
- Morning: Visit the Doo Wop Experience Museum & Retro Photo Ops 📸
- Lunch: Picnic at Cape May National Wildlife Refuge 🧺
- Afternoon: Rent bikes and ride the Wildwood Bike Path 🚲
- Dinner: Duffinetti’s – warm Italian fare with family-style charm 🍝
- Evening: Stargazing from the beach or ice cream nightcap 🍨
🌟 Tips for Traveling Families
- Pack Smart: Sunscreen, flip-flops, reusable water bottles
- Stay Local: Family-friendly hotels and rentals fill up fast!
- Look for Freebies: Wildwood offers free beaches and events all summer
- Capture the Whimsy: Let kids take photos — their perspectives are magical 📷
The Wildwoods Attractions & Things To Do
The Hereford Inlet Lighthouse
Located in North Wildwood, NJ, built in 1874, is a unique historic and picturesque lighthouse and the only one of this style on the east coast. Now owned by the town of North Wildwood, it has reopened to public tours of the light and its extensive gardens.
Morey's Piers
The main amusement center with three other Piers and a water park providing rides and amusements for all ages. There are more than 100 rides and attractions, shopping, and restaurants along the 2-mile boar
The Doo Wop Preservation League MuseumThe "League" is actively involved in the preservation the classic Doo Wop "feel" to prevent it from becoming a memory. Make sure to visit the Doo Wop museum, featuring period furniture, neon and street signs from the 1950s. It's located across from the Convention Center.
George F. Boyer Historical Museum
A must visit for 50's & 60's music lovers. Learn how Woodstock changed the world of popular music and how that event was responsible for the death of top live music entertainment in the Wildwoods.
The Wildwoods Convention Center
Located on the world famous Wildwoods Boardwalk directly overlooking the beach and ocean, this state-of-the-art 260,000-square-foot facility offers one of the most spacious, flexible, innovative and inviting venues available for conventions, trade shows, meetings, concerts and exhibits.
Dolphin and Whale Watching
Thunder Cat Dolphin Watch Speedboat Adventure
They offer cruises along the beaches of Wildwood and Cape May seeking out Atlantic bottle-nosed dolphins aboard their Thunder Cat.The Starlight Fleet
Trips are led by a marine biologist and educator. They feature touch tank for patrons to experience Marine Life up close and personal.Dockside Fishing and Crabbing
Crabbing is a very popular summer and fall activity along the bays and creeks in the Wildwood area. Lakeview Docks Wildwood Crest - Pier Fishing and crabbing off 7118 Park Blvd. open daily Charges a small fee for crabbing off the pier. Boat rentals also available.Thrill Packed Boat Rides
Silver Bullet Tours
Wildwood Marina
Foot of the Bridge Rio Grande and Susquehana Aves. (Next to Boat House and Urie's Restaurant Wildwood, NJ
The Silver Bullet's twin V-12 turbo-charged diesel engines will give you the experience and thrills of a NASCAR Race Driver as it speeds up and down the oceanfront. On this thrill packed adventuresome journey you will experience 90 minutes of dolphin sightings and many other types of marine life. Be sure to wear casual clothing or bathing suits as the spray will cool and refresh you. They are also available for private charters.Where to Stay in Wildwood: Hotels & Motels Guide
Choosing where to stay in Wildwood New Jersey depends on your desired vacation style.
North Wildwood offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a mix of motels and condos, providing easy access to the northern, more residential end of the boardwalk. Wildwood is the heart of the action, with lodging that puts you steps away from Morey's Piers, restaurants, and nightlife; this area is ideal for those who want to be in the center of it all. For a more tranquil and upscale experience, Wildwood Crest features beautiful beachfront resorts and modern hotels, many with stunning ocean views and expansive pools. The iconic Doo Wop motels, found throughout the island, offer a unique, nostalgic, and often affordable stay, while larger Wildwood NJ family resorts in the Crest provide more amenities like restaurants and kids' activities. For peak season (July/August), it is crucial to book your accommodations well in advance, often 6-12 months ahead, to secure your preferred spot.Food and Dining in Wildwood
The dining scene in Wildwood is as diverse as its attractions, offering everything from iconic boardwalk treats to upscale waterfront dining. A trip isn't complete without trying legendary Wildwood boardwalk attractions like Curley's Fries, Kohr Brothers frozen custard, and a slice from Manco & Manco Pizza. For fresh, local seafood, explore the many restaurants and casual seafood shacks along the bayfront in Wildwood and North Wildwood. Families will find countless budget-friendly options, from classic diners to pizzerias. For a romantic evening, consider one of the bayfront restaurants in Wildwood Crest offering spectacular sunset views. During the peak summer season, especially on weekends, be prepared for long waits at popular establishments. It's always a good idea to call ahead and inquire about reservations, particularly for larger groups.
