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.
Local Tip: Pack a mesh beach bag for easy sand cleanup and quick drying. The walk from most hotels to the beach is short, but you’ll be making multiple trips throughout your stay.
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.
Don’t forget waterproof pouches for phones and cameras. You’ll want to capture memories without worrying about water damage from splashing or sudden downpours.
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.
Local Tip: Many of our guests pack light and do laundry mid-stay. It’s easier than lugging everything from home, especially for longer vacations with active families.
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.