Month: May 2026

Whether you’re an experienced angler or just want to try your luck with the kids, Wildwood’s waters offer some of New Jersey’s best fishing opportunities right at your doorstep. From deep-sea charter adventures to peaceful pier fishing, there’s something for every skill level along our beautiful coastline.

Charter Boat Fishing Adventures

Wildwood’s charter boat fleet offers some of the most exciting fishing experiences on the East Coast. The Miss Chris Fishing and Starfish are two popular charter operations that depart from the marina daily during fishing season. Half-day trips typically run $60-80 per person, while full-day adventures range from $120-150.

Summer months bring excellent opportunities for flounder, sea bass, and bluefish, while fall fishing produces striped bass and weakfish. Most charter boats provide all equipment and bait, making it perfect for beginners. The captains know exactly where the fish are biting and will clean your catch at the end of the trip.

Pier and Jetty Fishing

For a more relaxed fishing experience, Wildwood’s piers and jetties offer excellent shore-based opportunities. The Wildwood Boardwalk piers are perfect for families, offering easy access and the chance to catch flounder, kingfish, and small blues. No fishing license is required for saltwater pier fishing, making it incredibly accessible for visitors.

The North Wildwood jetty provides more serious fishing opportunities. This rocky structure extends into deeper water, attracting larger fish like striped bass and weakfish. Early morning and evening hours typically produce the best results.

Surf Fishing the Free Beaches

Wildwood’s free beaches provide unlimited surf fishing opportunities right in front of your hotel. Unlike many Jersey shore destinations, you can fish these pristine beaches without paying beach fees, making it an incredible value for fishing families.

The best surf fishing spots stretch from 26th Street north to the Hereford Inlet. Early morning and late evening hours produce the most action, with incoming tides typically offering the best bite. Popular catches include kingfish, croaker, bluefish, and occasional striped bass.

• ✓Best bait: bloodworms, squid strips, and fresh bunker
• ✓Ideal rod length: 8-12 feet for casting distance
• ✓Prime time: 2 hours before and after high tide

Tackle Shops and Local Knowledge

Lighthouse Bait & Tackle on New York Avenue has been serving Wildwood anglers for decades. They offer equipment rentals, fresh bait, and invaluable local fishing reports. Roy’s Bait & Tackle on Olde New Jersey Avenue is another excellent resource for gear and insider tips on where fish are currently biting.

Your Fishing Base Camp

Staying with Coastal Collection Hotels puts you within walking distance of the boardwalk and prime fishing spots. Our five locally-owned properties — from the family-friendly Paradise Inn to the oceanfront Beachside Resort — provide the perfect base for your fishing adventure. Many of our guests store their gear in their rooms and walk directly to the beach for sunrise surf fishing sessions.

After a successful day on the water, you’re just steps away from restaurants that will cook your fresh catch or ice machines to preserve your fish for the trip home. It’s this kind of local convenience that makes Wildwood fishing trips so memorable.

Stay Steps from the Action.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers.

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Just a short 15-minute drive south of Wildwood, the Wetlands Institute in Stone Harbor offers families an incredible chance to explore coastal nature without the crowds. This hidden gem combines hands-on learning with breathtaking views, making it the perfect day trip from our beachfront hotels.

What Makes the Wetlands Institute Special

The Wetlands Institute sits on 6,000 acres of pristine salt marsh, offering visitors a chance to see coastal New Jersey as it existed centuries ago. The facility features interactive exhibits, a 40-foot observation tower, and guided salt marsh tours that reveal the intricate ecosystem supporting our shore communities.

Kids especially love the touch tank experiences where they can gently handle horseshoe crabs, sea stars, and other marine creatures. The institute’s educational programs run throughout summer, with turtle talks, bird walks, and marsh explorations perfect for curious minds of all ages.

Planning Your Visit

The Wetlands Institute typically operates Tuesday through Saturday during summer months, with extended weekend hours. General admission runs around $8 for adults and $6 for children, making it an affordable family outing. Special programs like guided kayak tours and evening salt marsh walks require advance reservations and fill up quickly during peak season.

Educational Programs and Wildlife

Summer programming at the Wetlands Institute showcases the incredible biodiversity of coastal marshlands. Regular highlights include:

• ✓Terrapin turtle conservation talks
• ✓Bird banding demonstrations
• ✓Horseshoe crab spawning tours (late spring)
• ✓Salt marsh exploration walks

The institute’s research work focuses on protecting diamondback terrapin turtles, monitoring migratory bird populations, and studying the effects of sea level rise on coastal ecosystems. Visitors often witness active research in progress, adding authenticity to the educational experience.

Making It a Perfect Wildwood Day

Staying at any of Coastal Collection’s five locally-owned properties puts you perfectly positioned for this nature adventure. Start your morning with the institute’s guided programs, then return to Wildwood for afternoon beach time on our free beaches. The contrast between pristine wetlands and vibrant boardwalk creates a well-rounded coastal experience.

Whether you’re staying at our beachfront Sunset Beach Hotel or family-friendly Paradise Inn, you’re within walking distance of Wildwood’s famous boardwalk and just a quick drive to incredible nature experiences like the Wetlands Institute. It’s this combination of beach fun and educational adventures that makes our corner of the Jersey Shore special for families seeking both excitement and enrichment.

Stay Steps from the Action.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers.

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Planning a Wildwood vacation with teenagers? The key is balancing family time with activities that actually excite your teens — and trust us, Wildwood delivers on both fronts.

Boardwalk Adventures That Don’t Feel “Babyish”

The Wildwood Boardwalk is where your teens will want to spend most of their time, and for good reason. Morey’s Piers offers three amusement piers packed with thrill rides that’ll satisfy even the most ride-obsessed teenager. The Great White roller coaster and SkyCoaster are Instagram-worthy experiences that your teens will actually brag about back home.

For a different kind of thrill, try escape rooms at Boardwalk attractions or challenge each other at the arcade games. Many teens love the competitive aspect of trying to win prizes at games like basketball shootout or the claw machines.

Beach Activities Beyond Just Lounging

Yes, Wildwood’s beaches are completely free, but there’s so much more than just sunbathing. Rent kayaks or paddleboards for water adventures, or try your hand at beach volleyball on the courts near the boardwalk. Many teens enjoy the freedom of beach soccer or frisbee games with new friends they meet.

The wide beaches also make perfect spots for early morning or sunset photography sessions — something many teens are surprisingly into when they have the space and scenery to work with.

Food Adventures They’ll Actually Want to Try

Forget typical vacation food complaints — Wildwood’s boardwalk food scene is diverse enough to please even picky teen palates. From classic pizza by the slice to unique boardwalk treats like funnel cake ice cream sandwiches, there are plenty of Instagram-worthy eats.

Many of our Coastal Collection properties offer mini-fridges and microwaves, so teens can stash their favorite snacks and drinks — a small detail that makes a big difference in their vacation happiness.

Evening Entertainment That Bridges All Ages

Wildwood’s evening scene offers something for everyone. The free boardwalk concerts during summer feature tribute bands and local acts that appeal to multiple generations. Mini golf courses stay open late, and the boardwalk’s lively atmosphere keeps teens engaged well into the evening.

For quieter teens, beachfront bonfires (where permitted) or simply walking the boardwalk with friends can be just as appealing as the high-energy attractions.

Giving Teens the Right Amount of Independence

The beauty of Wildwood for families with teenagers is the walkable, safe environment that allows teens some independence while keeping parents comfortable. The boardwalk and beach areas are well-patrolled and family-friendly, making it easy to set boundaries that work for everyone.

Consider letting teens explore sections of the boardwalk on their own while you relax at the hotel pool or beach. The compact layout means they’re never too far from home base, and the consistent cell service keeps everyone connected.

Stay Steps from the Action.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

When you’re looking for waterfront dining with authentic Jersey Shore vibes, Ship N Shore Bar in Wildwood delivers exactly what you’re craving — cold drinks, harbor views, and that laid-back atmosphere that makes vacation memories stick.

Harbor Views That Never Get Old

Perched right on the water, Ship N Shore offers some of the best harbor views in Wildwood. Whether you’re watching fishing boats head out for the day or catching the sunset paint the water gold, the panoramic views from their outdoor deck make every visit special. The restaurant sits perfectly positioned where you can watch both the working marina bustle and the peaceful bay waters stretch toward Cape May Point.

Inside, the nautical decor keeps things casual — think weathered wood, maritime memorabilia, and windows that frame the water like living postcards. But honestly, most folks gravitate toward the outdoor seating where the sea breeze and unobstructed water views create that perfect Jersey Shore dining experience.

Happy Hour Done Right

Ship N Shore’s happy hour typically runs weekdays from 3-6 PM, featuring discounted drinks and appetizers that pair perfectly with harbor watching. Their drink specials usually include local draft beers, well drinks, and seasonal cocktails that capture that coastal feeling — think frozen drinks, beer buckets, and classic shore cocktails.

The appetizer menu during happy hour often features local favorites like steamed clams, wings, and nachos — perfect for sharing while you watch the boats come and go. It’s the kind of place where you plan to stay for one drink and end up making it dinner because the atmosphere just draws you in.

Fresh Seafood with a View

Beyond happy hour, Ship N Shore serves up solid seafood dishes that showcase the Jersey Shore’s fishing heritage. Their menu typically features fresh catches, crab cakes, fish tacos, and classic shore dinners. The raw bar offers local clams and oysters when available, and their fried seafood platters deliver that boardwalk-style indulgence with harbor views as a bonus.

Don’t overlook their landlubber options either — burgers, steaks, and chicken dishes ensure everyone in your group finds something satisfying. The portions are generous, and the preparation focuses on letting fresh ingredients shine rather than overcomplicating things.

Perfect Location for Coastal Collection Guests

When you’re staying with Coastal Collection Hotels, Ship N Shore becomes an easy addition to your Wildwood experience. After spending the day on our free beaches and strolling the boardwalk just steps from properties like Paradise Inn or Beachside Resort, the harbor side offers a different perspective on Wildwood’s waterfront beauty.

Our locally-owned hotels — from the Coastal Sands Inn to Sunset Beach Hotel — put you within easy reach of both the ocean action and quieter harbor-side spots like Ship N Shore. It’s the perfect way to experience all sides of Wildwood, from the excitement of the boardwalk to the peaceful harbor views that remind you why the Jersey Shore has been drawing visitors for generations.

Stay Steps from the Action.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

Planning a Wildwood family vacation means packing for sun-soaked beach days, thrilling boardwalk adventures, and everything in between. Getting your packing list right can make the difference between a smooth getaway and scrambling to find essentials once you arrive.

Beach Day Essentials

Since Wildwood’s beaches are completely free, you’ll want to spend plenty of time soaking up the sun and surf. Pack multiple swimsuits for each family member — wet suits take forever to dry in humid beach air. Don’t forget a large beach umbrella or pop-up tent for shade, especially if you have little ones.

Reef-safe sunscreen is non-negotiable, and pack more than you think you need. The reflection off Wildwood’s white sand intensifies UV rays. Beach toys like buckets, shovels, and sand molds will keep kids entertained for hours on the expansive shoreline.

Boardwalk Adventure Gear

Comfortable walking shoes are crucial for exploring the 2.5-mile boardwalk. Flip-flops work for short strolls, but sneakers or supportive sandals are better for full boardwalk adventures. Pack a small backpack or crossbody bag for carrying water bottles, snacks, and prize winnings from arcade games.

Bring layers for evening boardwalk visits. Ocean breezes can make temperatures drop unexpectedly, even in summer. Light jackets or hoodies ensure everyone stays comfortable during late-night funnel cake runs or watching the sunset from the pier.

Water Park and Activity Essentials

If you’re planning visits to Morey’s water parks, pack water shoes for everyone. The concrete can get scorching hot, and water shoes provide protection and better grip on wet surfaces. Quick-dry towels are worth the investment — they’re lighter and more compact than regular beach towels.

Practical Extras That Make a Difference

Pack a cooler with wheels for beach picnics and keeping drinks cold during long beach days. Many families underestimate how much they’ll spend on boardwalk food and drinks. Having your own supply helps stretch the vacation budget.

Bring a first aid kit with band-aids, aloe vera gel, and children’s pain reliever. Minor cuts from shells or sunburn relief might be needed. Pack extra phone chargers and portable battery packs — you’ll be taking lots of photos and using maps throughout your stay.

• ✓Laundry pods for mid-stay washing
• ✓Reusable water bottles for everyone
• ✓Ziploc bags for wet clothes and sandy treasures
• ✓Cash for boardwalk games and food vendors

Making Packing Easier

Staying at one of Coastal Collection’s locally-owned properties puts you within walking distance of the boardwalk, which means you can easily head back to your room to grab forgotten items or drop off purchases. Our five hotels — from the family-friendly Paradise Inn to the beachside Sunset Beach Hotel — all offer convenient locations that minimize what you need to carry around all day.

Smart packing sets the foundation for an amazing Wildwood family vacation. With the right essentials and a great home base just steps from all the action, you’ll spend less time worrying about logistics and more time making memories on the beach and boardwalk.

Stay Steps from the Action.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

Soaring 400 feet above Wildwood’s pristine coastline with nothing but ocean breeze and breathtaking views — parasailing offers the ultimate bird’s-eye perspective of our beloved Jersey Shore. If you’ve been watching those colorful parachutes drift across the sky and wondering what it’s like up there, here’s everything you need to know for your first parasailing adventure.

What Actually Happens During Parasailing

Contrary to what many first-timers imagine, you don’t run off a cliff or jump from a platform. Parasailing in Wildwood is entirely boat-based — you’ll launch and land right on the vessel’s deck. The experienced crew handles all the technical work while you simply sit back in a specially designed harness and enjoy the ride.

Most Wildwood parasailing operations run from the back bay waters behind the island, launching from marinas near Schellenger’s Landing or Sunset Lake. The entire experience typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, though your actual flight time is usually 8-12 minutes at heights ranging from 400 to 800 feet.

Safety and Age Requirements

Most Wildwood parasailing companies welcome participants as young as 6 years old, though children under 12 must typically fly tandem with an adult. The weight requirements usually range from 90 to 450 pounds, and tandem flights can accommodate up to 500 pounds combined.

You don’t need any special skills or experience — the crew handles everything. The modern winch systems used by local operators are incredibly safe, with multiple backup systems and Coast Guard-approved equipment. Weather conditions are monitored constantly, and trips are cancelled if winds exceed safe limits.

What You’ll See from Above

The aerial views of Wildwood are simply spectacular. Looking east, you’ll see the entire five-mile stretch of free beaches dotted with colorful umbrellas and busy with families enjoying the surf. The famous boardwalk appears as a wooden ribbon lined with amusement piers, while the distinctive red rooftops of classic Wildwood motels create a nostalgic patchwork below.

To the west, the back bay reveals a maze of channels, wetlands, and small islands that most visitors never see from ground level. On clear days, you can spot Cape Henlopen across Delaware Bay and even catch glimpses of the Delaware Memorial Bridge in the distance.

Pricing and Booking Tips

Expect to pay around $80-$120 per person for single flights, with tandem rides typically costing $140-$180 total. Many companies offer package deals that include multiple activities or group discounts for families. Advance reservations are essential during peak summer weeks, especially for sunset flights that book up quickly.

Several reputable operators work out of Wildwood’s marinas, including businesses that have been safely flying visitors for decades. Most offer online booking and will provide detailed safety briefings before your flight.

Making the Most of Your Experience

The key to enjoying your first parasailing flight is relaxation. Once you’re airborne, the sensation is surprisingly peaceful — more like floating than flying. Many first-timers are amazed by how quiet it is up there, with only the sound of wind and distant ocean waves below.

Don’t forget to look around during your entire flight, not just straight down. The 360-degree views change constantly as the boat moves, offering different perspectives of Wildwood’s coastline, the Victorian charm of Cape May to the south, and the vast Atlantic stretching to the horizon.

Stay Steps from the Action.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

Choosing between Wildwood and Cape May for your family beach vacation? Both Jersey Shore destinations offer incredible experiences, but they cater to different family styles and budgets.

Beach Quality and Space

Wildwood’s beaches are completely free — no beach tags required — with some of the widest stretches of sand on the entire East Coast. During low tide, you’ll have nearly 1,000 feet of beach to spread out, perfect for families with active kids who need room to run, play volleyball, or build elaborate sandcastles.

Cape May beaches require daily or seasonal beach tags (around $6-8 per day for adults), but offer a more intimate, refined atmosphere. The beaches are narrower but beautifully maintained, with designated quiet zones that appeal to families seeking a calmer vibe.

Entertainment and Activities

Wildwood’s famous boardwalk stretches 2.5 miles and features three amusement piers packed with rides, games, and attractions. Morey’s Piers offers everything from kiddie rides to extreme roller coasters, plus water parks that keep families entertained for days. The boardwalk also hosts free concerts and events throughout summer.

Cape May takes a more historical approach with Victorian house tours, lighthouse visits, and nature walks through Cape May Point State Park. The Washington Street Mall provides charming shopping and dining, but nighttime entertainment is limited compared to Wildwood’s bustling scene.

Dining and Budget Considerations

Wildwood’s boardwalk food scene includes everything from Curley’s Fries and Kohr Bros. frozen custard to full family restaurants. Many establishments offer early bird specials and family packages that make dining out affordable for larger families.

Accommodation and Location Benefits

Staying with Coastal Collection Hotels puts you within walking distance of Wildwood’s boardwalk and free beaches, eliminating the need for daily beach tag purchases and parking hassles. Our five locally-owned properties — from the family-friendly Coastal Sands Inn to the Beachside Resort — plus private Airbnb rentals offer accommodations for every family size and budget.

The proximity factor can’t be overstated when traveling with children. No car rides to the beach, no parking fees, and easy trips back to your room for naps, snacks, or forgotten sunscreen make your vacation significantly more relaxed.

The Family Verdict

For families seeking action-packed fun, budget-friendly options, and the convenience of free beaches, Wildwood wins hands down. The combination of expansive beaches, endless entertainment, and walkable convenience makes it ideal for families with children of all ages. Cape May better suits families preferring quieter, more refined experiences and those willing to invest in premium dining and historic charm.

Stay Steps from the Action.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

Nothing beats the nostalgic thrill of dropping quarters into arcade games and walking away with an armful of prizes. Wildwood’s boardwalk is home to some of the Jersey Shore’s most exciting arcades, where families have been making memories for generations.

Classic Arcade Games That Never Go Out of Style

The Morey’s Piers Adventure Maze & Lasertag arcade stands out as one of the largest gaming destinations on the boardwalk. Here you’ll find everything from vintage Skee-Ball lanes to the latest virtual reality experiences. The Skee-Ball tournaments are legendary — locals and visitors alike compete for high scores that translate into serious ticket earnings.

Don’t miss the Coin Castle Arcade near Mariner’s Landing, where old-school pinball machines share space with modern shooting games. The basketball shootout games here are particularly challenging, but mastering them leads to some of the best prize payouts on the boardwalk.

Prize Strategies and Ticket Redemption

The key to maximizing your arcade experience lies in understanding the ticket-to-prize ratio. Games like Skee-Ball, basketball, and ring toss offer consistent ticket payouts when you develop your skills. The big-ticket items — giant stuffed animals, electronics, and premium toys — typically require 2,000-5,000 tickets.

For families with younger kids, focus on games that offer guaranteed small prizes rather than chasing the jackpot games. The spinning wheels and memory games provide steady ticket streams that add up quickly.

Must-Try Games for Maximum Fun

Every Wildwood arcade veteran has their go-to games. Here are the crowd favorites that consistently deliver excitement:

• ✓Skee-Ball: The undisputed king of boardwalk gaming
• ✓Claw Machines: Look for recently restocked machines with loose grips
• ✓Water Gun Racing: Perfect for competitive families
• ✓Air Hockey: Tournament-style tables with smooth playing surfaces

Budget-Friendly Arcade Tips

Arcade gaming can get expensive quickly, but smart players know how to stretch their dollars. Many arcades sell play cards with bonus credits — buying a $20 card often gives you $25-30 worth of gameplay. Some locations offer unlimited play wristbands during specific hours, perfect for dedicated gaming sessions.

Making Arcade Memories From Your Coastal Collection Base

Staying with Coastal Collection Hotels puts you within walking distance of every major boardwalk arcade. After a morning enjoying Wildwood’s free beaches, families can easily stroll to their favorite gaming spots without worrying about parking or long drives. Our five locally-owned properties — from the Coastal Sands Inn to Sunset Beach Hotel — provide the perfect home base for multi-day arcade adventures.

The convenience means kids can return to the hotel for naps or snacks between gaming sessions, and parents can take breaks while staying close to all the boardwalk action. Plus, with comfortable accommodations and local expertise from our staff, you’ll discover which arcades offer the best deals and newest games during your stay.

Stay Steps from the Action.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →