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Category: Things to Do

La Cantina Wildwood — Taco Tuesday and Tex-Mex on the Shore

La Cantina Wildwood — Taco Tuesday and Tex-Mex on the Shore
Wildwood, NJ · April 2026

When you’re craving authentic Tex-Mex flavors with a Jersey Shore twist, La Cantina Wildwood delivers the perfect blend of spicy, fresh, and satisfying. This local favorite has become a go-to spot for families and beach-goers looking to fuel up on delicious Mexican cuisine without straying far from the sand.

Taco Tuesday Takes Center Stage

La Cantina’s Taco Tuesday specials are legendary among locals and returning visitors. Every Tuesday, you’ll find discounted tacos featuring everything from classic carne asada and carnitas to fresh fish caught right here along the Jersey coast. The restaurant typically offers $2-3 tacos on Tuesdays, making it an affordable way to sample their entire taco menu.

The fish tacos deserve special mention – made with locally-sourced catches when available, they’re topped with crisp cabbage, pico de gallo, and a zesty lime crema that perfectly complements the oceanic setting. It’s this attention to local ingredients that sets La Cantina apart from chain restaurants.

Local Tip: Arrive early on Taco Tuesday – the restaurant fills up quickly with both vacationers and year-round residents who know a good deal when they see one.

Beyond Tacos: The Full Tex-Mex Experience

While Taco Tuesday gets the headlines, La Cantina’s regular menu showcases the full range of Tex-Mex classics. Their fajitas arrive sizzling with generous portions of grilled peppers and onions, perfect for sharing after a long day on Wildwood’s free beaches. The enchiladas come smothered in house-made sauces, and the quesadillas are crispy, golden, and loaded with melted cheese.

Don’t overlook the appetizer menu – the guacamole is made fresh daily, and the loaded nachos are substantial enough to serve as a light meal. Many families find that ordering a few appetizers to share is the perfect way to satisfy everyone’s cravings without overordering.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere

La Cantina understands its beachside clientele – families with sandy feet, sun-tired kids, and parents looking for a relaxed meal. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with colorful Mexican-inspired décor and a staff that’s patient with indecisive young diners. High chairs are readily available, and the kids’ menu features crowd-pleasers like cheese quesadillas and chicken strips alongside smaller portions of adult favorites.

Perfect timing: La Cantina makes an ideal dinner spot after spending the day on the beach. Most Coastal Collection properties are within easy walking distance, so you can head back to freshen up before your meal.

Drinks and Margaritas

No Tex-Mex experience is complete without the right beverages, and La Cantina delivers with a solid selection of frozen and on-the-rocks margaritas. Their house margarita is a classic lime blend that pairs perfectly with spicy dishes, while fruit variations like strawberry and mango add a tropical touch that feels right at home near the ocean.

For non-drinkers and kids, they offer traditional Mexican sodas, fresh fruit waters, and standard soft drinks. The portions are generous, so don’t hesitate to ask for extra glasses if you’re sharing.

Why Stay Close Makes It Better

When you’re staying at one of Coastal Collection’s five locally-owned hotels or private Airbnb rentals, you’re perfectly positioned to enjoy La Cantina without the hassle of driving and parking. After a satisfying Tex-Mex dinner, you can take a leisurely stroll back to your accommodation, maybe stopping by the boardwalk for a quick evening walk to settle your meal.

Local Tip: Check La Cantina’s social media before your visit – they sometimes feature seasonal specials or live music nights that aren’t advertised elsewhere.

La Cantina Wildwood proves that great Mexican food and beachside vacations are a winning combination. Whether you’re planning your visit around Taco Tuesday or just craving some south-of-the-border flavors during your shore getaway, this local gem delivers both authentic taste and family-friendly service that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

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 →

Timmy’s Ale House Wildwood — Cold Beers and Good Vibes

Timmy's Ale House Wildwood — Cold Beers and Good Vibes
Wildwood, NJ · April 2026

Looking for the perfect spot to unwind with a cold beer after a day on Wildwood’s beautiful free beaches? Just a block from the famous boardwalk, Timmy’s Ale House offers the kind of warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes vacation memories last.

A Jersey Shore Institution with Heart

Named after the owner’s beloved dog, Timmy’s Ale House embodies everything great about Jersey shore hospitality. Timmy and his parents created this charming establishment with a simple philosophy: sharing a fresh draft beer among friends in a warm setting can transform anyone’s day. Their vision of celebrating life with loved ones, sharing stories with strangers, and embracing neighbors has made this ale house a true community gathering spot.

The pub-like atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between cozy and lively, making it equally appealing for couples seeking a romantic evening out or families looking for a casual dinner spot. The country-style bar and beer garden setup creates an authentic, unpretentious vibe that feels worlds away from typical tourist traps.

Local Tip: Timmy’s is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your four-legged family members along for the fun. The staff genuinely loves meeting furry guests!

What Makes Timmy’s Special

The real magic of Timmy’s Ale House lies in its commitment to creating connections. This isn’t just about serving drinks – it’s about fostering the kind of environment where strangers become friends and good times turn into great stories. The friendly staff embodies this spirit, treating every guest like a neighbor rather than just another customer.

  • ✓Fresh draft beers in a rotating selection
  • ✓Country-style beer garden atmosphere
  • ✓Live music and entertainment
  • ✓Food trucks and casual dining options
  • ✓Dog-friendly policy

Perfect Location for Beach Lovers

Timmy’s prime location just one block from the boardwalk makes it an ideal stop during your Wildwood adventure. After spending the day enjoying our free beaches and all the boardwalk attractions, you can easily walk over for a refreshing drink and some hearty food. The convenient location means you’re never far from the action, whether you want to catch a sunset over the ocean or grab a late-night snack.

The owners behind Timmy’s are the same talented team responsible for popular local spots Santorini and Venezia, so you know you’re in for quality food and exceptional service.

Stay Close to the Action

When you choose Coastal Collection Hotels for your Wildwood getaway, spots like Timmy’s Ale House become part of your neighborhood. Our five locally-owned properties – Coastal Sands Inn, Paradise Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, and Sunrise Inn, plus our private Airbnb rentals – are all within walking distance of the boardwalk, making it easy to discover hidden gems like this charming ale house.

Local Tip: Check Timmy’s social media for their live music schedule – they regularly feature local bands that capture the authentic Jersey shore sound.

Whether you’re starting your evening with a cold beer before dinner or winding down after a full day of beach activities, Timmy’s Ale House delivers the authentic, friendly experience that makes Wildwood special. It’s these locally-owned gems that transform a simple beach vacation into something truly 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.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

Wildwood Doo Wop Motels — The Neon Signs You Need to See

Wildwood Doo Wop Motels — The Neon Signs You Need to See
Wildwood, NJ · April 2026

Nothing says “classic American beach vacation” quite like cruising past a glowing neon sign shaped like a giant coffee cup or atomic boomerang. In Wildwood, these aren’t just random roadside relics – they’re living pieces of history that earned this stretch of Jersey Shore the official title of “Doo Wop Capital of the World.”

The Neon Legends You Can’t Miss

Start your neon safari at the Caribbean Motel on Ocean Avenue – the only motel in America to earn a spot on the Historic Hotels of America registry. Its towering sign features a classic boomerang shape with palm tree accents that practically scream “1950s vacation vibes.” The building itself showcases the angular rooflines and kidney-shaped pool that define authentic Doo Wop architecture.

Just down the street, the Stardust Motel dazzles with its atomic-age starburst sign that looks like something straight out of The Jetsons. The bright turquoise and pink neon creates an otherworldly glow against the evening sky, while plastic palm trees add that perfect touch of retro kitsch around the property.

Local Tip: The best time for neon sign photography is during the “blue hour” – that magical 30 minutes after sunset when the sky is deep blue but the signs are fully lit. Park along Ocean Avenue between Wildwood and Wildwood Crest for the most concentrated collection of vintage signs.

Beyond the Big Names: Hidden Neon Gems

While everyone photographs the famous signs, locals know to look for the smaller treasures. The Waikiki Motor Lodge features a tiki-themed sign complete with bamboo lettering and tropical birds. The Pan American Hotel’s sign showcases the era’s fascination with jet travel, while the Admiral Resort’s nautical-themed neon includes anchors and rope details that glow against the ocean backdrop.

Don’t miss the whimsical coffee cup sign at the long-closed Jolly Roger Motel – it’s become an Instagram favorite for its perfectly preserved 1960s charm. The Neon Sign Garden at the Doo Wop Experience Museum displays rescued signs from demolished motels, giving you a chance to see these artistic time capsules up close.

The Story Behind the Glow

These aren’t just pretty lights – they’re artifacts of American optimism. Built during the post-war boom of the 1950s and 60s, these motels competed for families driving down from New York and Philadelphia with increasingly elaborate signs and space-age designs. The “Googie” architectural style celebrated atomic energy, jet travel, and the promise of tomorrow with its angular shapes, bright colors, and futuristic themes.

Visit the Doo Wop Experience Museum at 4500 Ocean Avenue to learn the full story. The museum showcases period furniture, vintage postcards, and rescued neon signs while explaining how the Wildwoods became this unique architectural wonderland.

Your Doo Wop Base Camp

Staying with Coastal Collection Hotels puts you right in the heart of neon country. Our five locally-owned properties – from the Coastal Sands Inn to Sunset Beach Hotel – are all within walking distance of the boardwalk and the best sign-viewing spots along Ocean Avenue. After spending your day exploring these glowing relics, you can easily stroll back to your room or grab dinner at one of the classic boardwalk joints.

Local Tip: Many of the vintage motels turn off their neon signs around midnight to save energy. Plan your evening neon tour between sunset and 11 PM for the full glowing experience. And remember – Wildwood’s beaches are completely free, so you can combine your retro architecture tour with classic beach time.

The Wildwoods’ neon signs aren’t just tourist attractions – they’re a celebration of American creativity and the enduring appeal of a classic beach vacation. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, architecture buff, or just someone who appreciates a good dose of vintage charm, these glowing beacons offer a colorful journey back to the golden age of the American road trip.

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 →

Best Beaches in Wildwood NJ — A Block-by-Block Guide

Wildwood, NJ · April 2026

With five miles of pristine, white sand and no beach tags required, Wildwood’s beaches offer something special for every type of beach lover. Whether you’re seeking the perfect surfing spot or a quiet stretch for reading, this block-by-block guide helps you find your ideal slice of Jersey Shore paradise.

North Wildwood Beaches: The Quieter End

The northern stretch of Wildwood’s beaches tends to be less crowded, making it perfect for families with young children or anyone seeking a more relaxed atmosphere. The beaches near 16th Avenue and New York Avenue offer excellent conditions for boogie boarding and body surfing, with lifeguards on duty during peak season.

This area is particularly popular with anglers, as the jetties provide excellent fishing opportunities. The wide beaches here give you plenty of space to spread out, even during busy summer weekends.

Local Tip: The beaches around 2nd and 3rd Avenues in North Wildwood are designated dog-friendly areas during certain hours. Check with lifeguards for current pet policies.

Central Wildwood: Boardwalk Action

The heart of Wildwood’s beach scene centers around the boardwalk area between Schellenger and Andrews Avenues. This is where you’ll find the most activity, with easy access to the famous 38-block boardwalk featuring over 100 rides and attractions.

These beaches are ideal for beach volleyball enthusiasts, with multiple courts set up during summer months. The proximity to boardwalk amenities means you’re never far from food, drinks, or restrooms. Surfing conditions here can be excellent, particularly during morning hours before the crowds arrive.

Staying at any of Coastal Collection’s five locally-owned properties puts you within easy walking distance of both the boardwalk excitement and these prime beach spots. No need for parking hassles or long walks with beach gear.

Wildwood Crest: Family Paradise

The southern section around Wildwood Crest offers the most family-friendly atmosphere. The beaches here are typically calmer, with gentler waves perfect for young swimmers. The area around Rambler Road and Atlanta Avenue is particularly popular with families.

This stretch is known for its excellent conditions for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. During the right season, you might even spot dolphins or whales from shore, though dedicated whale watching tours from nearby Cape May offer better viewing opportunities.

Best Beaches for Specific Activities

  • ✓Surfing: Early morning at beaches near Garfield and Montgomery Avenues
  • ✓Beach Volleyball: Central areas near the boardwalk with established courts
  • ✓Fishing: North end jetties and southern Wildwood Crest
  • ✓Shell Collecting: Early morning walks in Wildwood Crest

Local Tip: The best time for beach activities is typically between 9 AM and 11 AM, when crowds are lighter and conditions are often ideal for surfing and beach sports.

Why Wildwood’s Free Beaches Are Special

Unlike many Jersey Shore destinations, Wildwood’s beaches require no tags or admission fees. USA Today has recognized them as “New Jersey’s Best Beaches,” and it’s easy to see why. The beaches are among the widest on the entire Jersey Shore, giving everyone plenty of room to enjoy their preferred activities without feeling crowded.

From Coastal Collection’s properties – including Coastal Sands Inn, Paradise Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, and Sunrise Inn, plus our private Airbnb rentals – you’re perfectly positioned to explore different sections of beach throughout your stay. Each offers its own character and ideal conditions for different activities.

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 →

Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary — A Quiet Day Trip from Wildwood

Looking for a peaceful escape from the bustling Wildwood boardwalk? Just a short 15-minute drive south lies one of South Jersey’s best-kept secrets: the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary. This 21-acre nature preserve offers families a chance to spot amazing wildlife while enjoying some quiet time in nature.

## What Makes Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary Special

The Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary serves as a vital nesting ground for herons, egrets, and ibises. Unlike many wildlife areas that require entrance fees, this sanctuary is completely free to explore. You’ll find multiple entrance points around the preserve, with well-maintained trails that wind through different habitats — from wetlands to wooded areas.

Local Tip: Bring binoculars and download the Merlin Bird ID app before you go. Visitors regularly spot white-eyed vireos, red-eyed vireos, common yellowthroats, and if you’re lucky, the rare summer tanager.

The sanctuary’s crown jewel is Holly Path, which takes you closest to the active nesting areas. Black-crowned Night Herons frequent the trees along this trail, making it a photographer’s dream. However, to protect these magnificent birds during nesting season, visitors are asked to stay on designated trails and keep voices low, especially between March and October.

## Best Times to Visit

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities. The birds are most active during these cooler parts of the day, and the lighting is perfect for photography. Spring migration (April through May) and fall migration (September through October) provide the most diverse bird sightings.

Plan Your Visit: No restrooms or picnic facilities available — this is a sanctuary, not a traditional park. Bring water, wear comfortable walking shoes, and remember this is a quiet zone for wildlife protection.

## What to Bring

Pack light but smart for your sanctuary visit. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as trails can be uneven. Don’t forget your camera with a zoom lens — you’ll want to capture the herons and egrets without disturbing them. A small backpack with water and snacks works well, since there are no facilities on-site.

## Making It a Full Day Trip

Combine your sanctuary visit with exploring charming Stone Harbor village. Browse the boutique shops along 96th Street, grab lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants, or simply enjoy Stone Harbor Beach. The town offers a more upscale, quieter alternative to Wildwood’s high-energy atmosphere.

## Why Stay in Wildwood for Your Stone Harbor Adventure

Staying with Coastal Collection Hotels makes exploring the entire Cape May County region incredibly convenient. 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 walking distance of Wildwood’s famous boardwalk and free beaches, while keeping destinations like Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary easily accessible.

Local Tip: After your peaceful morning at the sanctuary, return to Wildwood for afternoon fun on our free beaches — no beach tags required! You get the best of both worlds: quiet nature exploration and classic shore entertainment.

Unlike chain hotels, our locally owned properties give you insider knowledge about hidden gems like the bird sanctuary. Our front desk staff can provide detailed directions, suggest the best viewing times, and recommend other nature spots throughout Cape May County.

The drive from any of our Wildwood hotels to Stone Harbor takes just 15 minutes via Ocean Drive — one of New Jersey’s most scenic coastal routes. You’ll pass through North Wildwood, Anglesea, and Stone Harbor, getting glimpses of back bay marshlands where you might spot additional wildlife.

Stay Steps from Wildwood’s Free Beaches

Five locally owned hotels plus private Airbnb rentals — all within walking distance of the boardwalk.

Book Your Wildwood Stay

Doo Wop Architecture Wildwood NJ — A Guide to the Neon Motels

Wildwood is home to one of America’s most unique architectural styles — Doo Wop, the neon-lit, space-age motel designs of the 1950s and 60s that make the island look like a time capsule of mid-century cool.

What Is Doo Wop?

After World War II, Wildwood exploded as a vacation destination. Motel owners competed for attention with bold designs — angular rooflines, kidney-shaped pools, neon signs, and space-age themes. The result is a streetscape unlike anywhere else in America.

Where to See It

Drive or walk along Ocean Avenue and Atlantic Avenue in Wildwood and Wildwood Crest. The remaining Doo Wop motels are concentrated here — many still operating, their original signs glowing at night just like they did 60 years ago.

Doo Wop Experience Museum

For the full history, visit the Doo Wop Experience Museum on the boardwalk. Interactive exhibits, neon sign collections, and the story of how Wildwood became America’s Doo Wop capital.

Stay in Wildwood’s History

Coastal Collection’s properties carry forward Wildwood’s tradition of locally-owned, character-driven accommodations — updated with modern amenities but rooted in the same spirit that made Wildwood famous. Five hotels and Airbnb rentals, all with personality.

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The Reef Restaurant Wildwood — Waterfront Dining at Its Best

The Reef is Wildwood’s premier waterfront restaurant — a modern, curated menu featuring locally sourced seafood, seasonal ingredients, and views that make every meal feel special.

The Experience

This isn’t boardwalk food (though we love that too). The Reef is where you go for a real dinner — fresh catches prepared with technique, craft cocktails mixed with care, and a waterfront setting that turns a meal into a memory.

What to Order

The menu rotates seasonally, but the seafood is always the star. Trust the daily specials — they’re based on what came in fresh that day. The cocktail program is thoughtful, with seasonal creations alongside classics done right.

Perfect for Date Night

Traveling as a couple? The Reef is your evening. Drop the kids at Morey’s Piers (old enough) or hire a sitter, then enjoy a grown-up dinner on the water. You earned it.

And getting there from Coastal Collection Hotels? A short walk or quick ride. Stay close to the action, dine at the best spots, and walk home under the boardwalk lights.

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Cape May Lighthouse — A Day Trip from Wildwood You Shouldn’t Skip

Just 20 minutes south of Wildwood, Cape May Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay from 199 steps up. It’s one of the best day trips you can take from your Wildwood hotel.

What to Know

The lighthouse is located in Cape May Point State Park. Climb the 199 steps for stunning 360-degree views. On a clear day, you can see the curve of the coastline all the way to Wildwood. The adjacent museum and gift shop are worth a stop too.

Combine It With

  • Sunset Beach — Just steps from the lighthouse. Famous for its nightly flag-lowering ceremony and spectacular sunsets.
  • Cape May town — Victorian homes, whale watching tours, wine tasting, and some of the best restaurants on the shore
  • Cape May Zoo — Free admission, great for kids, about 10 minutes from the lighthouse

Stay in Wildwood, Day Trip to Cape May

Cape May hotels are pricey. The smart move? Stay at Coastal Collection in Wildwood — free beaches, affordable rates, walking distance to the boardwalk — and drive 20 minutes to Cape May whenever you want. Best of both worlds.

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Wildwood Boardwalk Food — The Best Eats You Can’t Miss

The Wildwood boardwalk isn’t just rides and games — it’s one of the best food destinations on the Jersey Shore. Here’s what to eat when you’re walking the boards.

The Classics

  • Boardwalk pizza — Grab a slice at Sam’s or Mack’s, the two most debated pizzerias in Wildwood history
  • Funnel cake — Hot, crispy, loaded with powdered sugar. The line is always worth it.
  • Curly fries & cheese fries — Wildwood’s boardwalk fries are their own food group
  • Kohr Bros frozen custard — The orange-and-vanilla twist is a Jersey Shore tradition
  • Boardwalk corn — Buttered, seasoned, roasted. Simple and perfect.

Beyond the Basics

  • Crab fries — Old Bay seasoned fries with cheese sauce. Dangerously addictive.
  • Fresh lemonade — Hand-squeezed stands are scattered along the boards
  • Salt water taffy — You can’t leave Wildwood without a box. Shriver’s and Fralinger’s are the originals.
  • Lobster rolls — Several boardwalk spots now serve New England-style lobster rolls

Pro Tip

Hit the boardwalk food stands between 4-5pm — right before the dinner rush. Lines are shorter and everything is fresh for the evening crowd.

And when you’re staying at Coastal Collection Hotels, the boardwalk is just steps away. Late-night funnel cake runs are very much encouraged.

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Best Happy Hours in Wildwood NJ — 2026 Guide

After a day on the beach, nothing hits like a cold drink at happy hour prices. Here are the best happy hours in Wildwood, NJ for summer 2026.

Top Happy Hour Spots

  • Ship ‘N Shore Bar — Harbor views, daily happy hour prices on beer and cocktails. Hard to beat the sunset view with a cold one.
  • Dogtooth Bar & Grill — Legendary margaritas, solid food, and happy hour deals that keep locals coming back.
  • The Point — Craft cocktails with a view. One of Wildwood’s more polished happy hour spots.
  • Fairview Social — Casual vibes, good prices, and a crowd that’s there to have a good time.
  • West Side Saloon — Dive bar energy with prices to match. Sometimes that’s exactly what you want.
  • Mulligans Shore Bar & Grill — Reliable happy hour with bar food that doesn’t disappoint.

Pro Tip

Most Wildwood happy hours run 3-6pm. Hit the beach in the morning, shower at the hotel, and walk to happy hour. That’s the Wildwood daily routine.

Walk to Happy Hour from Coastal Collection

Every one of these spots is within walking distance of Coastal Collection Hotels. No driving, no Uber surge pricing. Just a short walk from your room to a cold drink.

Book Your Wildwood Stay