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When the sun sets over Wildwood, the boardwalk transforms into a glittering wonderland of lights, sounds, and endless entertainment that rivals any major theme park.

Classic Boardwalk Amusements

The heart of Wildwood’s nighttime magic lies in its three massive amusement piers that stretch out over the beach. Morey’s Piers features over 100 rides and attractions, including the iconic Great White roller coaster and the towering Giant Wheel that offers spectacular views of the coastline. Adventure Pier houses the thrilling SkyCoaster and ropes courses, while Surfside Pier caters to families with gentler rides and classic carnival games.

Most rides operate until 11 PM during peak summer season, with some staying open until midnight on weekends. Individual ride tickets start around $1.50, but all-day wristbands (typically $35-45) offer the best value for thrill-seekers planning to stay late.

Boardwalk Dining and Treats

Wildwood’s boardwalk comes alive with the aroma of famous boardwalk treats after dark. Curley’s Fries remains open late serving their legendary seasoned fries, while Kohr Brothers offers soft-serve ice cream until the crowds thin out. For a more substantial meal, Doo Wop Coffee Shop provides classic diner fare with their retro 1950s atmosphere perfectly complementing the boardwalk’s vintage charm.

Don’t miss the saltwater taffy shops like Shriver’s, where you can watch the taffy-pulling process through the windows. Many candy shops stay open until 10 or 11 PM, making them perfect for a sweet ending to your evening stroll.

Games, Arcades, and Entertainment

The boardwalk’s arcade scene is legendary, with Nickels Arcade offering everything from classic skee-ball to modern video games. Many arcades stay open until midnight during summer, providing climate-controlled entertainment when the evening gets too warm or if a brief shower passes through.

Street performers and musicians often set up along the boardwalk in the evening hours, creating an impromptu entertainment district. You might catch everything from acoustic guitar sets to impressive magic shows, all adding to the boardwalk’s vibrant atmosphere.

Evening Beach Activities

While Wildwood’s free beaches offer amazing daytime fun, they transform into a peaceful retreat after sunset. Evening beach walks are particularly magical, with the boardwalk lights creating a stunning backdrop against the ocean. The wide, clean beaches provide plenty of space for evening volleyball games, frisbee, or simply relaxing on the sand while listening to the waves.

Beach fire pits are allowed in designated areas with proper permits, making for perfect evening gatherings with family and friends.

Planning Your Evening Adventure

The best boardwalk evenings start around 7 PM when the temperature cools and the crowds reach their peak energy. Most attractions wind down between 11 PM and midnight, though some restaurants and arcades may stay open later on busy weekend nights.

Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you’ll likely cover several miles exploring the 2.5-mile boardwalk. The evening ocean breeze can be refreshing, so consider bringing a light jacket even during summer months.

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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While most Jersey Shore destinations charge daily beach fees, Wildwood stands apart as one of the few places where you can enjoy miles of pristine coastline without spending a penny on beach tags.

The Origins of Free Beach Access

Wildwood’s commitment to free beaches dates back to the early 1900s when the borough was first established. Unlike many coastal communities that implemented beach tag systems to fund beach maintenance and lifeguard services, Wildwood made a deliberate decision to keep their beaches accessible to everyone. This policy was rooted in the belief that natural shorelines should remain public resources, not revenue generators.

The decision proved prescient. While neighboring towns like Cape May and Avalon charge between $6-15 per day for beach access, Wildwood has maintained its free policy for over a century. This approach reflects the community’s blue-collar roots and commitment to family-friendly tourism that doesn’t break the bank.

How Wildwood Funds Beach Services

You might wonder how Wildwood maintains such beautiful beaches without charging admission. The answer lies in creative municipal funding and tourism revenue. Property taxes, parking meter revenue, and business licenses from the thriving boardwalk help cover the costs of lifeguards, beach cleaning, and maintenance.

The famous Wildwood Boardwalk, stretching 2.5 miles and packed with attractions, generates significant revenue through business permits and taxes. This economic engine allows the city to subsidize beach operations while keeping sand access completely free for visitors and residents alike.

What Free Beaches Mean for Your Vacation Budget

The savings add up quickly for families. A week-long stay for a family of four at most Jersey Shore destinations includes $150-300 in beach tag fees alone. In Wildwood, that money stays in your pocket or gets spent on boardwalk treats, mini golf, and other vacation memories.

This philosophy extends beyond just beach access. Wildwood has cultivated an atmosphere where families can enjoy a genuine shore vacation without constant nickel-and-diming. Many attractions offer reasonable prices, and the free beaches set the tone for an affordable getaway.

Making the Most of Free Beach Days

Staying at one of Coastal Collection’s five locally-owned hotels puts you within walking distance of both the free beaches and the iconic boardwalk. Whether you choose the Coastal Sands Inn, Paradise Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, or Sunrise Inn, you’ll wake up just steps from all that free sand and surf.

Our properties also offer private Airbnb rentals for larger groups who want the full Wildwood experience. Since you’re not budgeting for daily beach fees, you can focus on what really matters: building sandcastles, riding the waves, and creating those perfect shore memories that bring families back year after year.

Wildwood’s free beaches represent more than just saved money—they embody a community value that prioritizes accessibility and family fun over profit margins. It’s this spirit that makes Wildwood truly special among Jersey Shore destinations.

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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The Jersey Shore rivalry is real — and nowhere is it more heated than between Wildwood and Seaside Heights. Both towns promise classic boardwalk fun, but which one delivers the better beach vacation? As locals who’ve called Wildwood home for decades, we might be biased, but the numbers don’t lie.

The Beach Battle: Free vs. Fee

Here’s where Wildwood takes an immediate lead: our beaches are completely free. While Seaside Heights charges daily beach badges that can run $10-15 per person during peak season, Wildwood welcomes everyone to our expansive shoreline without opening their wallets. For a family of four, that’s $40-60 saved every single day — money better spent on Curley’s Fries or a round of mini golf.

Wildwood’s beaches are also significantly wider, giving you plenty of space to spread out even during busy summer weekends. The sand stretches nearly 200 yards in some spots, compared to Seaside’s narrower strips that can feel cramped when the crowds arrive.

Boardwalk Showdown: Classic vs. Chaotic

Both towns boast legendary boardwalks, but they serve different crowds. Seaside Heights gained fame from MTV’s “Jersey Shore” and leans heavily into that party atmosphere — think loud clubs, aggressive vendors, and a scene that can get rowdy after dark.

Wildwood’s boardwalk strikes a different balance. Yes, we have excitement — three amusement piers packed with rides, including the Great Nor’Easter roller coaster and the Giant Wheel. But we’ve maintained that family-friendly vibe that makes parents comfortable bringing kids of all ages. Our “Doo Wop” retro theme adds character that you won’t find anywhere else on the East Coast.

• ✓Morey’s Piers: Three action-packed amusement piers
• ✓Famous Curley’s Fries and Kohr Bros. frozen custard
• ✓Two miles of boardwalk — longer than Seaside’s
• ✓Tram service to save your feet

Accommodation Advantage

Seaside Heights suffers from a hotel shortage — most visitors end up in cookie-cutter chain properties miles from the action. In Wildwood, you can stay walking distance from both the beach and boardwalk at locally-owned properties that actually care about your experience.

The Food Factor

While Seaside Heights has decent boardwalk eats, Wildwood’s culinary scene extends well beyond the boards. The Starlight Fleet brings in fresh catches daily, supplying restaurants like Doo Wop Diner and The Rusty Rudder. You’ll find everything from authentic Italian at Villa Barone to casual beachside dining at Beef ‘N Buns.

The Verdict

Seaside Heights has its merits — if you’re looking for a spring break atmosphere year-round, it delivers. But for families, couples, and anyone who wants the complete Jersey Shore experience without the chaos, Wildwood wins hands down. Free beaches, better accommodations, more attractions, and that unbeatable Doo Wop charm make this the Shore town that has it all.

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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When you’re staying at the shore and want to elevate your dining experience beyond boardwalk pizza and funnel cake, finding that perfect upscale restaurant can make your vacation truly memorable.

The Hunt for Elevated Shore Dining

While Wildwood’s boardwalk is famous for its casual eats and nostalgic treats, sometimes you want something more sophisticated. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, enjoying a date night while the kids are back at the hotel pool, or simply treating yourself to exceptional cuisine, the Cape May County area offers several upscale dining experiences worth the short drive from your Wildwood accommodations.

The challenge isn’t finding good food in this area – it’s finding that perfect balance of exceptional cuisine, elegant atmosphere, and reasonable accessibility from your beachfront base. Many visitors don’t realize how close they are to some of South Jersey’s most acclaimed restaurants.

What to Look for in Shore Fine Dining

The best upscale restaurants near Wildwood typically share several characteristics that set them apart from typical shore dining. First, they source fresh, local seafood – taking advantage of the area’s fishing industry to offer truly exceptional catches of the day. Second, they understand that shore dining should still feel relaxed, even when elevated, so the atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between sophisticated and approachable.

Look for establishments that feature locally-sourced ingredients, creative preparations of classic shore favorites, and wine lists that complement the coastal cuisine. The best spots often have seasonal menus that change based on what’s freshest from local farms and fishing boats.

Exploring Beyond Wildwood’s Boardwalk

Cape May, just a 15-minute drive south, offers several acclaimed restaurants in beautifully restored Victorian buildings. Stone Harbor and Avalon, heading north, feature waterfront establishments with stunning bay views. Each area brings its own personality to fine dining – Cape May with its historic charm, Stone Harbor with its upscale resort feel, and Avalon with its sophisticated beach town atmosphere.

Many of these restaurants specialize in contemporary American cuisine with coastal influences, featuring dishes like pan-seared local flounder, Jersey tomato preparations, and creative takes on crab cakes. The wine selections often emphasize lighter varieties that pair well with seafood, and many establishments feature impressive craft cocktail programs.

Making the Most of Your Upscale Dining Experience

The beauty of staying with Coastal Collection Hotels is the flexibility to enjoy both worlds – the classic boardwalk experience and sophisticated dining adventures. Our five locally-owned properties and private Airbnb rentals put you within walking distance of Wildwood’s free beaches and iconic boardwalk, while keeping you perfectly positioned for easy drives to the area’s finest restaurants.

After an elegant dinner in Cape May or Stone Harbor, you can return to your comfortable accommodations and still catch the sunset from our beachfront properties. Many guests find this combination perfect – spending days enjoying the casual fun of Wildwood’s attractions and evenings exploring the culinary gems scattered throughout Cape May County.

Whether you choose a waterfront establishment with panoramic views or an intimate bistro tucked into a historic downtown, the upscale dining scene near Wildwood offers memorable experiences that perfectly complement your beach vacation.

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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Two iconic Jersey Shore destinations, but only one offers the perfect blend of family fun, free beaches, and that authentic shore vibe you’re craving. Let’s settle this debate once and for all.

Beach Experience: The Clear Winner

Here’s where Wildwood absolutely dominates. While Seaside Heights charges beach fees that can add up quickly for families, Wildwood’s beaches are completely free — and they’re some of the widest, cleanest stretches of sand on the entire East Coast. We’re talking about beaches so expansive you can set up camp far from crowds, with lifeguards on duty and pristine conditions maintained year-round.

Seaside’s beaches, while nice, are narrower and often more crowded. Plus, those daily beach badges? They’ll cost a family of four around $40-50 per day during peak season. In Wildwood, that money stays in your pocket for funnel cake and rides instead.

Boardwalk Battle: Different Vibes, Different Crowds

Seaside Heights built its reputation on MTV’s “Jersey Shore,” and that party atmosphere still dominates. The boardwalk caters heavily to the college crowd and nightlife scene, with bars and clubs taking center stage. It’s loud, it’s intense, and it can feel overwhelming for families with young kids.

Wildwood’s boardwalk strikes the perfect balance. Sure, we’ve got thrills — Morey’s Piers offers some of the most exciting rides on the East Coast, including the Great White roller coaster and the legendary Giant Wheel. But we’ve also maintained that classic family boardwalk feel with games, traditional treats, and entertainment that spans all ages.

Accommodations: Local Charm vs Corporate Chains

Here’s where Wildwood really shines. While Seaside Heights is dominated by large chain hotels that lack personality, Wildwood offers authentic, locally-owned accommodations that actually care about your experience.

Coastal Collection Hotels operates five distinct properties right in the heart of Wildwood — from the retro-chic Sunset Beach Hotel to the family-friendly Beachside Resort. Each has its own character, but all share the same commitment to genuine hospitality you won’t find at corporate chains. Plus, we offer private Airbnb rentals for groups wanting extra space and privacy.

• ✓Walking distance to both beach and boardwalk from all properties
• ✓Local owners who know the best hidden gems and can give insider recommendations
• ✓Unique character and charm in each hotel — no cookie-cutter rooms here

The Food Scene: Quality vs Quantity

Seaside Heights focuses heavily on typical boardwalk fare — which isn’t necessarily bad, but options can feel limited and overpriced. Wildwood offers both classic boardwalk treats and genuine local restaurants that serve everything from fresh seafood to authentic Italian cuisine.

Plus, staying at one of our properties puts you within walking distance of local favorites like the Crest Tavern for authentic South Jersey pizza or the Washington Inn for upscale dining when you want to dress up a bit.

The Verdict

While Seaside Heights has its place for party-seeking twenty-somethings, Wildwood delivers the complete Jersey Shore experience. Free beaches, world-class boardwalk attractions, authentic local hospitality, and that perfect blend of excitement and relaxation that makes shore vacations memorable for everyone in the family.

When you stay with Coastal Collection Hotels, you’re not just getting a place to sleep — you’re getting local expertise, genuine care, and the best location to experience everything Wildwood offers. That’s a combination Seaside Heights simply can’t match.

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 birthday celebration at the beach? Wildwood’s five-mile stretch of free sandy beaches and iconic boardwalk create the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable party that kids and adults will talk about for years.

Beach Party Basics That Work Every Time

Start with the obvious advantage — Wildwood’s beaches are completely free, so you can host a large group without venue costs eating into your party budget. Set up near the lifeguarded areas between Schellenger and Andrews Avenues for the safest family-friendly zones.

Pack a beach wagon with essentials: pop-up tent for shade, cooler with ice and drinks, beach chairs for adults, and plenty of sunscreen. The key is arriving early (around 9 AM) to claim your perfect spot before the crowds arrive.

Boardwalk Adventures for Every Age

When beach time winds down, the boardwalk offers endless entertainment just steps away. Morey’s Piers features three amusement piers with rides ranging from gentle kiddie attractions to thrilling roller coasters. Birthday packages often include ride wristbands and reserved picnic areas.

For younger children, the Dinosaur Golf mini-golf course near Schellenger Avenue provides prehistoric fun, while older kids gravitate toward the arcade games and prizes at Nickels Midway Pier.

Creative Beach Games and Activities

Transform ordinary beach time into party magic with these crowd-pleasing activities:

• ✓Sandcastle building contest with small prizes for creativity
• ✓Beach scavenger hunt with seashells, driftwood, and colored rocks
• ✓Water balloon tosses and relay races in the sand
• ✓Beach volleyball or frisbee tournaments for active groups

Bring a portable speaker for beach-appropriate music, but keep volume considerate of nearby families. Many successful parties incorporate themed decorations that work with ocean breezes — think colorful pinwheels and weighted tablecloths.

Making It Easy with the Right Home Base

Staying with Coastal Collection Hotels puts you within walking distance of both the beach and boardwalk, eliminating transportation headaches for party logistics. Our five locally-owned properties — from the family-friendly Coastal Sands Inn to the beachside Paradise Inn — offer the space and amenities that make party planning seamless.

Many families book connecting rooms or our private Airbnb rentals to accommodate larger birthday groups. Having a nearby home base means easy trips back for forgotten sunscreen, quick diaper changes, or when someone needs a quiet break from the excitement.

The combination of free beaches, walkable entertainment, and comfortable accommodations makes Wildwood the ideal spot for stress-free birthday celebrations. Whether you’re planning for a toddler’s first beach party or a teenager’s adventure-filled day, the memories you’ll create here last far beyond the birthday cake.

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 drive from Wildwood’s bustling boardwalk, Historic Cold Spring Village offers families a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century South Jersey life. This 30-acre living history museum transports visitors back to the 1800s with authentic buildings, costumed interpreters, and hands-on activities that make history come alive.

What to Expect at Historic Cold Spring Village

Located in Cape May, this remarkable museum features over 27 restored historic buildings that showcase daily life from the 1800s. You’ll wander through a working farm, blacksmith shop, pottery studio, and general store, all staffed by knowledgeable interpreters in period costume who demonstrate traditional crafts and trades.

The village’s crown jewel is the Dennisville Inn, a beautifully preserved 1826 structure that once served as a stagecoach stop. Kids love watching the blacksmith forge horseshoes, while parents appreciate the detailed explanations of early American life. The one-room schoolhouse often features interactive lessons where visitors can try writing with quill pens on slate boards.

Planning Your Visit

Historic Cold Spring Village operates seasonally, typically from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with extended hours during peak summer months. Admission is reasonably priced at around $15 for adults and $10 for children, with discounts available for groups and seniors.

The village is located at 720 Route 9 in Cape May, making it an easy 20-minute drive from Wildwood. Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the grounds, though history buffs often find themselves lingering longer as they chat with the passionate interpreters.

Making the Most of Your Day Trip

Combine your village visit with other Cape May attractions for a full day of exploration. The Cape May County Park & Zoo is just minutes away and offers free admission, while downtown Cape May’s Victorian architecture and shopping provide a perfect afternoon complement.

• ✓Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the grounds
• ✓Bring a camera to capture the authentic period settings
• ✓Check their website for special demonstration schedules
• ✓Consider packing a lunch to enjoy in their picnic areas

Your Perfect Wildwood Home Base

Staying at one of Coastal Collection’s five locally-owned hotels puts you in the perfect position for day trips like Historic Cold Spring Village. After exploring 19th-century life, you can return to modern comfort and walk directly to Wildwood’s free beaches and famous boardwalk for evening fun.

Whether you choose the family-friendly Beachside Resort or the cozy Sunrise Inn, you’ll have easy access to both historical attractions and beach activities. Our properties offer the local knowledge and personal service that makes planning these enriching day trips effortless, ensuring your family creates lasting memories both on and off the beach.

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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When you’re craving an elevated dining experience beyond the casual boardwalk fare, Coastal Blue Diamond Beach delivers sophisticated coastal cuisine that perfectly complements your Wildwood getaway.

Upscale Oceanfront Atmosphere

Located just minutes from the heart of Wildwood, Coastal Blue Diamond Beach offers a refined dining atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustling boardwalk. The restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows showcase stunning ocean views, while the sophisticated interior design features nautical touches that celebrate the Jersey Shore’s maritime heritage without feeling kitschy.

The restaurant’s open-concept kitchen allows diners to watch skilled chefs prepare each dish, adding an element of culinary theater to your evening. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself after a day on Wildwood’s free beaches, the ambiance strikes the perfect balance between elegant and welcoming.

Fresh Seafood and Coastal Cuisine

The menu at Coastal Blue Diamond Beach celebrates the bounty of the Atlantic, featuring daily catches from local fishing boats. Signature dishes include their pan-seared halibut with citrus beurre blanc and the popular lobster risotto that’s become a local favorite among discerning diners.

For non-seafood lovers, the restaurant offers equally impressive options like their dry-aged steaks and seasonal vegetarian selections that highlight New Jersey’s farm-fresh produce. The wine list features carefully curated selections that pair beautifully with the coastal cuisine, including several bottles from New Jersey’s own wineries.

Craft Cocktails and Premium Spirits

The bar program at Coastal Blue Diamond Beach deserves special recognition. Their mixologists craft innovative cocktails using premium spirits and house-made syrups, with many drinks incorporating local ingredients like beach plum and sea salt. The “Jersey Shore Sunset” has become their signature drink, featuring local vodka, fresh peach, and a dramatic color gradient that mirrors the evening sky.

The restaurant also boasts an impressive selection of craft beers, including several from Cape May Brewing Company and other regional breweries that perfectly complement the coastal dining experience.

Perfect for Special Occasions

Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, hosting a business dinner, or marking a milestone birthday, Coastal Blue Diamond Beach provides the sophisticated atmosphere that makes any evening feel special. The restaurant offers private dining options for larger groups and can accommodate special dietary restrictions with advance notice.

Easy Access from Coastal Collection Hotels

Staying at any of our five locally-owned Coastal Collection properties puts you within easy reach of this exceptional dining destination. Our hotels’ prime locations mean you’re walking distance to both the famous Wildwood Boardwalk and upscale restaurants like Coastal Blue Diamond Beach.

After a day enjoying Wildwood’s free beaches and boardwalk attractions, you can easily transition from casual beachside fun to sophisticated dining without the hassle of long drives or complicated logistics. Our concierge team can help arrange reservations and provide recommendations for the perfect evening out, whether you’re staying at Paradise Inn, Beachside Resort, or any of our other welcoming properties.

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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When the sun sets over Wildwood’s famous boardwalk, the mini golf courses light up with neon colors and family laughter. With some of the most creative and challenging miniature golf courses on the East Coast, Wildwood offers evening entertainment that’s perfect for all ages and skill levels.

Classic Boardwalk Mini Golf Adventures

The heart of Wildwood’s mini golf scene runs right along the boardwalk, where Douglass Putt-N-Go has been entertaining families since the 1960s. This classic course features windmills, castles, and water hazards that have challenged generations of vacationers. Located at 3400 Boardwalk, it’s open until midnight during peak season, making it perfect for after-dinner family fun.

Just a few blocks south, Congo Falls Adventure Golf transports players into a jungle adventure complete with waterfalls, caves, and tropical landscaping. The 18-hole course winds through multiple levels, creating an immersive experience that feels like exploring an ancient temple.

Themed Courses Beyond the Boardwalk

Venture off the main strip to discover Pirate’s Den Blackbeard’s Cave, where swashbuckling adventure meets putting precision. This pirate-themed course features a full-size ship, hidden treasure, and challenging holes that wind through caves and around cannons. The attention to detail makes it feel like stepping into a pirate movie.

For sports enthusiasts, Golf-A-Rama offers both traditional mini golf and a unique baseball-themed course where you putt through miniature stadiums and diamond-shaped obstacles. It’s particularly popular with families who love America’s pastime.

What to Expect: Prices and Best Times to Play

Peak hours run from 7-10 PM when families finish dinner and head out for evening entertainment. For shorter waits, try playing during late afternoon or after 10 PM when many courses stay open until midnight. The cooler evening temperatures also make for more comfortable play during hot summer days.

• ✓Most courses accept cash and credit cards
• ✓Putters and balls provided at all locations
• ✓Many offer hole-in-one prizes and tournaments
• ✓Snack bars and restrooms available at major courses

Making Mini Golf Part of Your Wildwood Vacation

Staying with Coastal Collection Hotels puts you within easy walking distance of all the boardwalk’s best mini golf courses. After spending your day enjoying Wildwood’s free beaches, you can simply stroll back to your room at properties like Beachside Resort or Paradise Inn to freshen up before heading out for evening mini golf adventures.

Our five locally-owned hotels and private Airbnb rentals offer the perfect home base for exploring everything Wildwood offers. Whether you’re putting through pirate caves or navigating windmill obstacles, you’ll appreciate having comfortable accommodations just steps from all the boardwalk action.

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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Long before the bright lights of the boardwalk and the summer crowds, Wildwood was a quiet barrier island where local fishermen cast their nets and families farmed the sandy soil. Today’s bustling resort town has a fascinating story that spans over 150 years.

The Early Days: A Farming and Fishing Community

In the 1870s, what we now call Wildwood was actually three separate communities: Wildwood, Wildwood Crest, and North Wildwood. The area was originally inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans, who called it “Anglesea” after the abundance of fish in the surrounding waters. Early settlers like the Youngs and the Bakers established small farms and fishing operations, taking advantage of the island’s natural resources.

The turning point came in 1884 when the West Jersey Railroad extended its line to the island. Suddenly, this remote coastal community was connected to Philadelphia and other major cities, setting the stage for Wildwood’s transformation into a premier beach destination.

The Birth of the Boardwalk Era

The first Wildwood boardwalk was built in 1895, though it was much more modest than today’s two-mile stretch of entertainment. Early hotels like the Pan American and the Admiral began welcoming visitors who came for the fresh sea air and wide, sandy beaches. By the 1920s, Wildwood had earned its reputation as a family-friendly resort destination.

The 1950s and 60s brought Wildwood’s golden age of Doo-Wop architecture. Motels with names like the Satellite, the Starlux, and the Caribbean sprouted up along the beachfront, featuring futuristic designs, neon signs, and kidney-shaped pools. This unique architectural style now defines much of Wildwood’s visual character and has earned the area recognition as a historic preservation district.

The Morey Family Legacy

No discussion of Wildwood’s history is complete without mentioning the Morey family. Will Morey Sr. opened his first business on the boardwalk in 1969, and the family has been central to the area’s development ever since. Their three amusement piers – Morey’s Piers – have become synonymous with Wildwood’s boardwalk experience, attracting millions of visitors annually.

Preserving the Past While Embracing the Future

Today’s Wildwood balances its rich history with modern amenities. The Doo Wop Experience museum downtown showcases the area’s unique architectural heritage, while new developments continue to attract visitors from around the world. The famous wide beaches remain completely free to enjoy – a tradition that dates back to the early resort days when accessibility was key to the town’s success.

Experience History in the Making

When you stay with us, you’re not just visiting Wildwood – you’re becoming part of its ongoing story. Walk the same boardwalk where Victorian families once promenaded, enjoy the same free beaches that have welcomed generations of visitors, and create your own memories in a place where history and hospitality have always gone hand in hand.

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 →