Category: Things to Do

Step onto the Wildwood Boardwalk today and you’re walking through over a century of amusement park history. From the legendary Hunt’s Pier to the modern Morey’s empire, this stretch of Jersey Shore has been America’s playground for generations.

The Golden Age of Hunt’s Pier

Hunt’s Pier dominated Wildwood’s skyline from 1957 to 1985, becoming synonymous with classic boardwalk thrills. The pier stretched 1,000 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, featuring the iconic Golden Nugget Mine Ride and the towering Skua dark ride. Families would spend entire summers riding the Haunted Castle and cooling off in the Keystone Kops water ride.

The pier’s most famous attraction was arguably the Jungleland dark ride, where visitors journeyed through animatronic jungles complete with roaring lions and charging elephants. These elaborate dark rides set the standard for boardwalk entertainment that still influences Wildwood’s attractions today.

The Rise of Morey’s Piers

When Hunt’s Pier closed in 1985, the Morey family stepped up to preserve Wildwood’s amusement park legacy. Starting with Surfside Pier in 1969, the Moreys had already proven their commitment to family entertainment. After acquiring the Hunt’s Pier location, they transformed it into the adventure-themed Adventure Pier.

Today, Morey’s Piers operates three distinct piers along the boardwalk, each with its own personality. Surfside Pier caters to families with younger children, Mariner’s Landing offers classic boardwalk rides, and Adventure Pier delivers heart-pounding thrills like the Great White roller coaster and the SkyCoaster.

Evolution of Boardwalk Entertainment

The transformation from Hunt’s elaborate dark rides to Morey’s modern thrill machines reflects changing tastes in amusement park entertainment. Where Hunt’s focused on storytelling through immersive dark rides, Morey’s embraces both nostalgia and innovation with attractions like the Giant Wheel, which offers stunning ocean views, and cutting-edge rides like the Great Nor’Easter suspended coaster.

Preserving the Memories

While the rides have evolved, the spirit of Wildwood’s amusement park history lives on. Many longtime visitors still share stories of Hunt’s Pier adventures, and Morey’s has honored this legacy by incorporating vintage elements throughout their attractions. The classic carousel horses, traditional games of chance, and the unmistakable sounds of the boardwalk create continuity between past and present.

Your Perfect Amusement Park Base

Staying at Coastal Collection Hotels puts you within easy walking distance of all this boardwalk history and excitement. Our five locally-owned properties — from the Coastal Sands Inn to Sunset Beach Hotel — offer the perfect home base for exploring the piers. After a day of rides and games, you can easily walk back to your comfortable room, and in the morning, you’re steps away from Wildwood’s free beaches for a relaxing start to another adventure-filled day.

Whether you’re here for the nostalgia of classic boardwalk entertainment or the thrills of modern amusement parks, Wildwood’s rich history of family fun continues to create memories that last a lifetime.

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 →

Wildwood might look like just another Jersey Shore town, but locals know secrets that can transform your vacation from good to unforgettable. Here’s what the guidebooks won’t tell you about making the most of your Wildwood getaway.

The Beach Traffic Secret

Most tourists rush to the beach by 10 AM and fight for parking spots, but the best beach time is actually 3-5 PM. That’s when the day-trippers start heading home, the sun isn’t blazing overhead, and you’ll have your pick of prime spots on Wildwood’s completely free beaches. The late afternoon light is also perfect for those Instagram shots everyone’s trying to get.

Boardwalk Strategy That Saves Money

The Wildwood Boardwalk stretches for 2.5 miles, and most visitors make the mistake of buying food and drinks at the first spot they see. Walk to the north end near Olde New Jersey Avenue first – that’s where you’ll find the best prices and often the most authentic local flavors.

Also, those carnival games? They reset the prizes around 2 PM daily. That’s when your odds are best because they need to clear out inventory from the morning rush. The ring toss and basketball games near Morey’s Adventure Pier are your best bets for actually winning something worthwhile.

Free Entertainment You’re Missing

Every Wednesday and Saturday during summer, Byrnes Plaza hosts free concerts starting at 7 PM. These aren’t amateur hour performances either – they bring in tribute bands, local favorites, and sometimes regional touring acts. Bring a blanket and grab dinner from one of the nearby spots beforehand.

Where Locals Actually Eat

Forget the flashy boardwalk spots for a minute. Local families swear by Beef ‘N’ Beer on New Jersey Avenue for authentic cheesesteaks that won’t cost you $15. For breakfast, head to the Wildwood Diner on Pacific Avenue – it’s been family-owned since 1959 and serves portions that’ll fuel your entire beach day.

Here’s the real insider secret: hit up the Acme Markets early morning for beach snacks and drinks. You’ll pay boardwalk prices for convenience, but smart locals stock up on water, snacks, and sunscreen before heading out for the day.

Parking and Transportation Hacks

Most tourists waste vacation time circling for parking spots. The municipal lots fill up fast, but there are hidden gems if you know where to look. The residential streets between Cedar and Magnolia Avenues usually have spots, and it’s just a short walk to everything you need.

Better yet, choose accommodations where you can walk to the boardwalk and beach. Our locally-owned properties put you right in the heart of everything, so you can leave the car parked and experience Wildwood the way it’s meant to be experienced – on foot, discovering hidden corners and local favorites that make this place special.

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 →

Who says a memorable family vacation has to break the bank? Wildwood offers an impressive lineup of genuinely free activities that’ll keep everyone entertained from sunrise to sunset.

Miles of FREE Beach Access

Let’s start with Wildwood’s crown jewel: completely free beach access along our pristine coastline. Unlike many Jersey Shore destinations that charge hefty beach tags, Wildwood welcomes families to enjoy the sand and surf without any admission fees. The wide, clean beaches stretch for miles, offering plenty of space for sandcastle building, volleyball games, and lazy afternoon sunbathing.

Boardwalk Strolling and People Watching

The iconic Wildwood Boardwalk offers endless free entertainment. This 2.5-mile wooden wonderland buzzes with street performers, live music, and the timeless joy of people-watching. Kids love spotting the colorful characters in costume, while adults appreciate the beautiful ocean views and nostalgic atmosphere.

During summer evenings, you’ll often catch free concerts and festivals right on the boards. The Wildwoods Convention Center frequently hosts outdoor events, and local businesses sponsor family-friendly entertainment throughout the season.

Exploring Wildwood’s Unique Architecture

Take a self-guided tour of the world’s largest collection of 1950s Doo Wop architecture. These quirky, colorful motels with their boomerang signs, geometric patterns, and space-age designs tell the story of mid-century American optimism. The Wildwood Historical Society offers free walking tour maps, or simply wander the blocks around Pacific Avenue to discover neon gems like the Satellite Motel and Lollipop Motel.

Nature Adventures at Sunset Beach

Just a short drive away, Sunset Beach in Cape May Point offers free Cape May diamond hunting. These smooth quartz pebbles wash ashore daily, and searching for them becomes an addictive family treasure hunt. The beach also provides stunning sunset views over the Delaware Bay and a chance to see the concrete ship Atlantus, a WWI-era vessel that ran aground in 1926.

• ✓Free parking and beach access
• ✓Best “diamond” hunting at low tide
• ✓Spectacular sunset photo opportunities

Free Summer Entertainment

Wildwood’s summer calendar bursts with complimentary family fun. The annual Fabulous 50s Weekend, various car shows, and outdoor movie nights on the beach provide entertainment without admission fees. Many restaurants and bars along the boardwalk offer live music that spills out onto the boards, creating a festival atmosphere most evenings.

Staying with Coastal Collection Hotels puts you within walking distance of all these free attractions. Our five locally-owned properties — from the Coastal Sands Inn to Sunset Beach Hotel — offer the perfect home base for budget-conscious families who want to experience everything Wildwood offers without the premium price tag of chain hotels.

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 →

Looking for a fantastic family adventure that won’t break the budget? The Cape May County Park & Zoo offers an incredible day out with completely free admission, making it one of South Jersey’s best-kept secrets for families staying in Wildwood.

Free Admission Makes It a Perfect Family Day Trip

That’s right — admission to Cape May County Park & Zoo is completely free. While donations are greatly appreciated and help support the animals, there’s no entrance fee required. This AZA-accredited zoo features over 550 animals representing more than 250 species, all set within beautifully maintained naturalistic habitats.

The zoo operates year-round with seasonal hours: 10am to 4:30pm from early March through October, and 10am to 3:30pm during winter months. Free parking makes the entire experience budget-friendly for families.

Must-See Animals and Exhibits

The African Savanna exhibit is absolutely spectacular, featuring giraffes and zebras roaming in spacious, naturalistic environments. Kids will be amazed watching the giraffes stretch their long necks to reach treats from feeding stations. The big cats, including lions and tigers, are housed in impressive habitats that allow for great viewing opportunities.

Don’t miss the reptile house, the walk-through aviary where colorful birds fly freely around you, and the children’s zoo area where little ones can get up close with friendly farm animals. The snow leopards and red pandas are particular crowd favorites.

Beyond the Animals

Cape May County Park offers much more than just the zoo. The grounds include multiple playgrounds perfect for burning off energy, miles of nature trails for peaceful walks, and bike paths for family cycling adventures. There’s also an antique carousel and a miniature train ride that kids absolutely love (small fees apply for rides).

Perfect Addition to Your Wildwood Vacation

Staying at any of Coastal Collection’s five locally-owned hotels — Coastal Sands Inn, Paradise Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, or Sunrise Inn — puts you in the perfect position to explore both the free beaches of Wildwood and attractions like Cape May County Zoo. Our properties are all within walking distance of the famous Wildwood Boardwalk, so you can easily combine a zoo day trip with classic beach vacation fun.

Many of our guests love planning a zoo visit for a cooler morning, then returning to enjoy the beach in the afternoon. It’s the perfect way to add variety to your shore vacation while keeping costs down.

Whether you’re staying in one of our comfortable hotel rooms or our private Airbnb rentals, Cape May County Zoo makes an excellent complement to your Wildwood beach vacation. Free admission, amazing animals, and beautiful park grounds create memories that last long after the sand is shaken from your shoes.

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 →

Just 30 minutes from Wildwood’s bustling boardwalk lies a completely different world — one where over 360 bird species call home and 48,000 acres of pristine wetlands stretch as far as the eye can see. Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge offers families an unforgettable nature escape that perfectly complements your beach vacation.

What Makes Forsythe Special

This incredible refuge protects more than 48,000 acres of southern New Jersey’s coastal habitats, with over 82% being wetlands. The landscape here is dominated by salt marshes interspersed with shallow coves and bays — creating the perfect environment for migratory birds traveling the Atlantic flyway. The refuge has recorded over 360 bird species, making it a paradise for both serious birders and families just looking to spot something amazing.

The Wildlife Drive Experience

The refuge’s main attraction is the Wildlife Drive Self-Guided Tour, an 8-mile loop that takes you through the heart of this remarkable ecosystem. Following numbered Blue Goose marker signs, you’ll drive slowly through diverse habitats while spotting everything from great blue herons and osprey to the occasional bald eagle. The drive typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on how often you stop to watch wildlife.

Your car becomes a mobile bird blind, allowing you to get surprisingly close to wildlife without disturbing them. Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom — you’ll want to capture the great egrets fishing in shallow pools and the osprey nests perched on tall platforms throughout the refuge.

Walking Trails for All Ages

Beyond the driving tour, several walking trails offer different perspectives of the refuge. The deCamp Wildlife Trail is one of the shorter options, perfect for families with young children. This trail winds through wooded areas and wetlands where Canadian geese and other waterfowl are commonly spotted.

Planning Your Visit from Wildwood

The refuge headquarters in Oceanville, NJ, is easily accessible from Wildwood via the Garden State Parkway. Admission is free, making this an affordable family adventure that pairs perfectly with Wildwood’s free beaches. Most visitors spend 2-4 hours at the refuge, leaving plenty of time to return for an evening stroll on the boardwalk.

• ✓Open daily from sunrise to sunset
• ✓Visitor center typically open 8am-4:30pm
• ✓Restrooms and parking available at headquarters
• ✓Bring water, snacks, and sun protection

Your Perfect Nature and Beach Combination

Staying at one of Coastal Collection’s five locally-owned hotels puts you in the perfect position for this nature adventure. Our properties — from Coastal Sands Inn to Sunset Beach Hotel — are all within walking distance of Wildwood’s boardwalk, so you can easily combine a morning at the refuge with an afternoon on our free beaches. After a day of spotting osprey and great egrets, there’s nothing better than watching the sunset over the ocean from your comfortable accommodations.

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 →

While most Jersey Shore destinations charge $10-15 daily for beach access, Wildwood stands apart as one of the last free beach towns on the entire coast. No tags, no fees, no hassle — just grab your towel and go.

The Last Free Beach Towns on the Jersey Shore

The Wildwoods — including Wildwood, North Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest — remain committed to keeping their beaches accessible to everyone. While neighboring towns like Cape May charge $8 daily or $30 for seasonal tags, and Ocean City requires $12 daily passes, Wildwood welcomes families at absolutely no cost.

This tradition dates back decades when local leaders made a conscious decision to fund beach maintenance through municipal budgets rather than visitor fees. The philosophy was simple: beaches should be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of budget.

What This Means for Your Family Vacation Budget

For a family of four planning a week-long shore vacation, free beach access saves serious money. Consider the math: seven days of beach tags in most shore towns costs $280-420 for a family. In Wildwood, that money stays in your pocket for boardwalk rides, water park visits, or delicious seafood dinners.

The savings become even more significant for larger families or multi-generational trips. Grandparents, teens, and toddlers all enjoy the same expansive beaches without additional fees adding up.

How Wildwood Funds Beach Maintenance

Without beach tag revenue, Wildwood funds beach operations through property taxes, tourism taxes, and revenue from the famous boardwalk. The system works because the area attracts millions of visitors annually who spend money at local businesses, restaurants, and attractions.

Beach maintenance includes daily cleaning, lifeguard services during summer season, and ongoing sand replenishment projects. The award-winning beaches consistently earn Blue Wave certification for cleanliness and safety standards.

Will Free Beaches Last Forever?

Recent discussions among local mayors have raised questions about the long-term sustainability of free beach access. Rising costs for lifeguards, seasonal staff, and beach infrastructure projects have prompted some officials to consider beach tag programs as additional revenue sources.

However, community resistance remains strong. Residents and business owners recognize that free beaches are a major competitive advantage that draws families back year after year. For now, the commitment to accessibility continues.

Making the Most of Free Beach Access

Smart beach-goers arrive early during peak summer weeks to secure prime spots near lifeguard stations. The beaches offer something for everyone: families gravitate toward the calmer waters near the piers, while surfers prefer the breaks near Cresse Avenue.

Don’t forget that free beach access pairs perfectly with free boardwalk strolling. The 38-block boardwalk connects all three Wildwood communities, creating an unbeatable combination of natural beauty and classic shore entertainment — all without entrance fees.

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 massive monster trucks roar to life on Wildwood’s sandy shores, you know you’re in for an unforgettable spectacle that combines adrenaline-pumping action with the natural beauty of our free beaches.

The Ultimate Beach Racing Experience

The Monsters on the Beach event transforms Wildwood’s pristine coastline into a thunderous arena where colossal trucks weighing thousands of pounds crush cars and race across the sand. Presented by the Renegade Monster Truck Tour, this high-octane spectacle typically runs over a thrilling three-day weekend in late September, with shows scheduled at various beach access points including Spicer Avenue and Schellenger Avenue.

What makes this event truly special is its unique beach setting. Where else can you watch monster trucks like “AmeriCrush” and “ZombieCrusher” perform jaw-dropping stunts with the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop? The combination of roaring engines, flying sand, and ocean breeze creates an atmosphere you simply can’t find at traditional indoor arenas.

Year-Round Monster Truck Thrills

While the main Monsters on the Beach event happens annually, monster truck enthusiasts can enjoy rides and smaller shows throughout the summer season. From mid-June through Labor Day, and on weekends during spring and fall, you can experience the thrill of riding in actual monster trucks (weather and track conditions permitting). These rides give families a chance to feel the power of these mechanical beasts firsthand.

The regular summer programming ensures that no matter when you visit Wildwood, there’s a good chance you’ll encounter some monster truck action. Weekend visitors in the shoulder seasons are often treated to surprise appearances and demonstration runs along the beach.

Perfect for Families and Thrill Seekers

The beauty of Monsters on the Beach lies in its broad appeal. Young children are mesmerized by the sheer size of these mechanical giants, while teenagers and adults get their adrenaline fix from the high-speed races and crushing demonstrations. The event typically features multiple performance times throughout the weekend, including family-friendly afternoon shows at 12:30 p.m. and more intense evening performances.

Why Stay with Coastal Collection

When monster trucks take over the beach, smart visitors book with Coastal Collection Hotels for the ultimate convenience. Our five locally-owned properties—Coastal Sands Inn, Paradise Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, and Sunrise Inn—plus private Airbnb rentals put you within easy walking distance of both the boardwalk and the beach venues where these spectacular shows take place.

After a day of earth-shaking entertainment, you’ll appreciate returning to comfortable accommodations where you can relax and recharge for the next day’s excitement. Since Wildwood’s beaches are completely free, you can easily walk over to scout the best viewing spots or catch impromptu truck demonstrations throughout 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 →

There’s something magical about watching the sun paint the Atlantic Ocean in shades of gold and pink while most of Wildwood is still asleep. Those early morning moments on our free beaches offer a completely different perspective of this beloved shore town — quieter, more peaceful, and absolutely breathtaking.

The Perfect Time to Rise

Wildwood sunrises typically occur between 5:30 AM and 7:00 AM depending on the season, with summer offering the earliest shows around 5:45 AM. The golden hour actually begins about 30 minutes before the sun breaks the horizon, so plan to be on the sand by 5:15 AM for the full experience. The sky starts with deep purples and blues, gradually warming to vibrant oranges and pinks before that first brilliant ray pierces the Atlantic.

Prime Viewing Spots Along the Shore

While Wildwood’s entire coastline offers stunning sunrise views, certain spots provide the clearest eastern horizon. The beaches near the Wildwood Boardwalk’s northern end offer unobstructed views with convenient access paths. Many early risers gather around the area near Schellenger Avenue, where the beach is wide and the dunes are lower.

For those staying at any of Coastal Collection’s five locally-owned properties — Coastal Sands Inn, Paradise Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, or Sunrise Inn — you’re perfectly positioned just a short walk from these prime viewing areas. No need for early morning drives or hunting for parking; simply slip out in comfortable clothes and flip-flops.

What Makes It Special

Early morning on Wildwood Beach reveals a completely different world. The famous boardwalk is quiet except for the occasional jogger or fellow sunrise enthusiast. Seagulls patrol the empty sand, and the rhythmic sound of waves becomes the only soundtrack. As one local photographer described it, “the sun reflects like diamonds as it rises out of the sparkling blue sea.”

Wildlife is more active in these early hours too. You might spot dolphins feeding offshore, sandpipers racing along the water’s edge, or hermit crabs scurrying across the sand. The cooler morning air makes for comfortable walking, and photographers love the soft, golden light that makes everything look magical.

Making the Most of Your Morning

Bring a light jacket or sweatshirt — even summer mornings can be cool near the ocean. A thermos of coffee or hot tea adds to the experience, and don’t forget your camera or phone for photos. Many visitors find that this quiet time becomes their favorite part of each day.

• ✓Arrive 30 minutes before sunrise for the full color show
• ✓Bring layers — morning ocean breezes can be chilly
• ✓Pack a small blanket for comfortable sand sitting

Whether you’re staying at one of our boutique properties or renting one of our private Airbnb accommodations, you’re never more than a few minutes’ walk from these unforgettable sunrise moments. There’s no admission fee to Wildwood’s beaches, making this one of the most affordable and rewarding experiences 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 →

Planning a beach vacation when you or a family member uses a wheelchair doesn’t mean compromising on fun or accessibility. Wildwood’s five-mile stretch of free beaches offers excellent wheelchair access, and staying at one of Coastal Collection’s five locally-owned hotels puts you within walking distance of multiple accessible beach entrances.

Beach Access Ramps Throughout Wildwood

Wildwood takes beach accessibility seriously, with beach access ramps at various entrances throughout the island. These ramps help guests using wheelchairs, strollers, or wagons reach the sand more easily. You’ll find public beach access points at numbered street ends in North Wildwood, making it easy to find an entrance near your accommodations.

The ramps are well-maintained and designed to handle both wheelchairs and beach equipment. Whether you’re staying at our Beachside Resort or Sunset Beach Hotel, you’ll be close enough to multiple access points to choose the most convenient one for your daily beach visits.

Beach Wheelchair Rentals Available

Don’t have a beach wheelchair? No problem. Beach wheelchair rentals are available through the City of North Wildwood Recreation department. These specialized wheelchairs feature wide, balloon-style tires that roll smoothly over sand, making beach exploration much easier.

For Wildwood Crest visitors, there’s an even more convenient option. The city offers a beach shuttle service from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily. Simply call their headquarters at 609-522-3825 when you’re ready to head to the beach, and they’ll provide a ride from the street end down to the shoreline.

Accessible Boardwalk Transportation

Getting around the famous Wildwood Boardwalk is easier than ever with accessible transportation options. The newer tramcars are wheelchair-accessible and stroller-friendly, running until around midnight during peak season. This means you can enjoy the boardwalk’s shops, restaurants, and attractions well into the evening without worrying about transportation back to your hotel.

Why Choose Coastal Collection for Accessible Stays

Staying at one of our five locally-owned properties puts you in the perfect position to take advantage of Wildwood’s accessibility features. Our hotels—including Coastal Sands Inn, Paradise Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, and Sunrise Inn, plus private Airbnb rentals—are all within easy reach of accessible beach entrances.

• ✓Walking distance to multiple beach access points
• ✓Close to accessible tramcar stops
• ✓Local staff knowledge of accessibility resources
• ✓Easy access to free beaches and boardwalk attractions

Wildwood’s commitment to accessibility, combined with completely free beach access, makes it an ideal destination for wheelchair users and their families. With proper planning and the right accommodations, your beach vacation can be everything you dreamed of and more.

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 →

Just twenty minutes north of Wildwood lies one of South Jersey’s most charming coastal gems — the Sea Isle City Promenade. This elevated wooden boardwalk offers stunning ocean views, family-friendly atmosphere, and a refreshing change of pace from the bustling Wildwood Boardwalk.

What Makes Sea Isle City Special

Unlike Wildwood’s action-packed boardwalk, Sea Isle City’s Promenade is all about relaxation and scenic beauty. The elevated walkway stretches for nearly two miles along the coastline, providing unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean and pristine beaches below. It’s the perfect spot for morning jogs, sunset strolls, or simply sitting on one of the many benches to watch the waves roll in.

The Promenade connects several key areas of Sea Isle City, including the main shopping district along Landis Avenue and the popular beach access points. You’ll find everything from casual beachside cafes to upscale seafood restaurants within walking distance of the wooden walkway.

Top Activities Along the Promenade

The Promenade isn’t just about walking — there’s plenty to see and do. Fishing enthusiasts love the 40th Street Pier, where you can cast a line without needing a beach badge. The pier extends into the ocean and offers excellent opportunities for catching flounder, bluefish, and striped bass.

• ✓Bike rentals available along Landis Avenue
• ✓Beach volleyball courts near 32nd Street
• ✓Playground and picnic areas at Dealy Field
• ✓Weekly farmers market on Saturday mornings

Dining and Shopping Near the Promenade

The blocks surrounding the Promenade offer excellent dining options for every taste and budget. The Lobster Loft serves fresh seafood with panoramic ocean views, while Mike’s Seafood offers casual dining with famous fish tacos and crab cakes. For a quick bite, grab an Italian ice from one of the vintage vendors along Landis Avenue.

Shopping enthusiasts will love browsing the unique boutiques and surf shops scattered throughout the area. Many stores feature locally-made jewelry, beachwear, and home decor items that capture the essence of Jersey Shore living.

Planning Your Day Trip from Wildwood

The drive from Wildwood to Sea Isle City takes just 20 minutes via Route 109 North, making it an easy day trip from any of our five locally-owned hotels or private Airbnb rentals. Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks, as you’ll want to spend several hours exploring both the Promenade and the beautiful beaches below.

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 →