From a quiet fishing village to one of the Jersey Shore’s most beloved destinations, Wildwood has transformed itself while keeping its authentic seaside charm that draws families back year after year.
The Early Days: A Fishing Community is Born
Wildwood’s story begins in the mid-1800s when it was nothing more than a collection of small barrier islands inhabited by hardy fishing families. The area was originally called “Five Mile Beach” due to its expansive coastline, and early settlers made their living from the abundant waters of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay.
The turning point came in 1879 when the first hotel, the Wildwood House, was built to accommodate visitors arriving by steamboat from Philadelphia and Camden. This modest beginning would spark a transformation that continues today.
Local Tip: You can still see remnants of Wildwood’s fishing heritage at the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse, built in 1874 to guide those early fishing vessels safely to shore.
The Railroad Changes Everything
The real game-changer arrived in 1889 when the West Jersey Railroad extended its line to Wildwood. Suddenly, day-trippers and vacationers from Philadelphia could reach this pristine stretch of beach in just a few hours. The population exploded from a few hundred year-round residents to thousands of summer visitors.
During this boom period, the first version of what would become the famous Wildwood Boardwalk was constructed. Initially just a simple wooden walkway to keep sand out of the nearby hotels and shops, it would eventually grow into the 2.5-mile entertainment destination we know today.
The Golden Age of Doo-Wop
The 1950s and 1960s brought Wildwood’s most distinctive era. Post-war prosperity meant more families could afford beach vacations, and Wildwood embraced the vibrant architectural style now known as Doo-Wop architecture. Dozens of motels sprouted up with their signature kidney-shaped pools, neon signs, and space-age designs.
Many of these iconic motels still operate today, including several family-owned properties that have been welcoming guests for generations. The Doo-Wop Preservation League works to maintain this unique architectural heritage that makes Wildwood unlike anywhere else on the East Coast.
Modern Wildwood: Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future
Today’s Wildwood successfully balances its rich history with modern amenities. The boardwalk thrives with classic amusement piers alongside new attractions, while the free beaches remain as beautiful as ever – no beach tags required, unlike many other Jersey Shore destinations.
The city has embraced its Doo-Wop heritage as a tourist draw, with the Doo-Wop Experience museum and annual festivals celebrating this unique period in American architecture and culture.
Local Tip: Walk the boardwalk early in the morning to see it as those first 1880s visitors did – peaceful, with just the sound of waves and seabirds, before the excitement of the day begins.
Experience History Where It Happened
Staying at one of Coastal Collection’s five locally-owned hotels puts you right in the heart of this historic transformation. Our properties are within walking distance of the boardwalk where Wildwood’s modern story began, and we’re part of the continuing tradition of family-owned hospitality that has defined this community for over a century.
Whether you choose the Coastal Sands Inn, Paradise Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, or Sunrise Inn – plus our selection of private Airbnb rentals – you’ll be experiencing Wildwood the way generations of families have: with warm hospitality, easy beach access, and that authentic Jersey Shore charm that no chain hotel can replicate.
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.