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Nothing says “Wildwood vacation” quite like the cheerful ding-ding of the iconic tram car as it glides down the famous boardwalk. This beloved attraction has been delighting families for decades, and it’s absolutely essential to your Jersey Shore experience.

All Aboard the Wildwood Tram Car

The Wildwood Boardwalk Tram Car isn’t just transportation — it’s a moving piece of history that’s been operating since 1949. These bright yellow cars cruise the entire 2.5-mile length of the boardwalk, from 16th Avenue all the way down to Cresse Avenue, making stops every few blocks along the way.

The tram runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, typically operating from 11 AM until midnight during peak season. During shoulder seasons in May and September, hours may be reduced, so it’s worth checking the current schedule during your stay.

What to Expect on Your Tram Ride

Each colorful car holds about 24 passengers and features open-air seating that lets you soak in all the sights, sounds, and ocean breezes. The friendly conductors often share fun facts about Wildwood’s history and point out popular attractions along the way.

As you cruise along, you’ll pass iconic boardwalk landmarks like Morey’s Piers, the Convention Center, and countless shops, restaurants, and game arcades. The panoramic ocean views from the tram are absolutely spectacular, especially as you glide past the wide, free beaches that make Wildwood so special.

Perfect for Families and Sore Feet

After a long day of walking the boardwalk, exploring amusement rides, or lounging on Wildwood’s beautiful free beaches, the tram car becomes your best friend. It’s perfect for families with little ones who get tired, elderly visitors who want to see everything without the walking, or anyone who just wants to sit back and enjoy the ride.

The tram also makes practical sense when you’re carrying beach gear, shopping bags, or just want to get from one end of the boardwalk to the other quickly. Many visitors use it strategically — walking one direction while exploring, then taking the tram back to where they started.

Making It Easy with Coastal Collection

When you stay at one of our five locally-owned hotels — Coastal Sands Inn, Paradise Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, or Sunrise Inn — you’re just steps away from all the boardwalk action. Our walking distance location means you can easily hop on the tram whenever you want, whether it’s for a scenic ride or practical transportation.

The tram car experience captures everything magical about a Wildwood vacation — the nostalgia, the ocean views, the family fun, and that special Jersey Shore atmosphere. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a full week of sun and surf, make sure the iconic tram car ride is on your must-do list.

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 looking for waterfront dining with authentic Jersey Shore vibes, Ship N Shore Bar in Wildwood delivers exactly what you’re craving — cold drinks, harbor views, and that laid-back atmosphere that makes vacation memories stick.

Harbor Views That Never Get Old

Perched right on the water, Ship N Shore offers some of the best harbor views in Wildwood. Whether you’re watching fishing boats head out for the day or catching the sunset paint the water gold, the panoramic views from their outdoor deck make every visit special. The restaurant sits perfectly positioned where you can watch both the working marina bustle and the peaceful bay waters stretch toward Cape May Point.

Inside, the nautical decor keeps things casual — think weathered wood, maritime memorabilia, and windows that frame the water like living postcards. But honestly, most folks gravitate toward the outdoor seating where the sea breeze and unobstructed water views create that perfect Jersey Shore dining experience.

Happy Hour Done Right

Ship N Shore’s happy hour typically runs weekdays from 3-6 PM, featuring discounted drinks and appetizers that pair perfectly with harbor watching. Their drink specials usually include local draft beers, well drinks, and seasonal cocktails that capture that coastal feeling — think frozen drinks, beer buckets, and classic shore cocktails.

The appetizer menu during happy hour often features local favorites like steamed clams, wings, and nachos — perfect for sharing while you watch the boats come and go. It’s the kind of place where you plan to stay for one drink and end up making it dinner because the atmosphere just draws you in.

Fresh Seafood with a View

Beyond happy hour, Ship N Shore serves up solid seafood dishes that showcase the Jersey Shore’s fishing heritage. Their menu typically features fresh catches, crab cakes, fish tacos, and classic shore dinners. The raw bar offers local clams and oysters when available, and their fried seafood platters deliver that boardwalk-style indulgence with harbor views as a bonus.

Don’t overlook their landlubber options either — burgers, steaks, and chicken dishes ensure everyone in your group finds something satisfying. The portions are generous, and the preparation focuses on letting fresh ingredients shine rather than overcomplicating things.

Perfect Location for Coastal Collection Guests

When you’re staying with Coastal Collection Hotels, Ship N Shore becomes an easy addition to your Wildwood experience. After spending the day on our free beaches and strolling the boardwalk just steps from properties like Paradise Inn or Beachside Resort, the harbor side offers a different perspective on Wildwood’s waterfront beauty.

Our locally-owned hotels — from the Coastal Sands Inn to Sunset Beach Hotel — put you within easy reach of both the ocean action and quieter harbor-side spots like Ship N Shore. It’s the perfect way to experience all sides of Wildwood, from the excitement of the boardwalk to the peaceful harbor views that remind you why the Jersey Shore has been drawing visitors for generations.

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 Wildwood Boardwalk is home to some of the Jersey Shore’s most exciting arcade experiences, where classic games meet modern thrills and prizes range from stuffed animals to giant teddy bears that barely fit in your beach bag.

Classic Boardwalk Arcade Hotspots

Mariner’s Landing remains the granddaddy of Wildwood arcades, featuring everything from vintage skee-ball lanes to cutting-edge virtual reality games. The water gun race games here are legendary — aim your stream at the target to make your horse gallop faster than your competition. Winners take home oversized plush prizes that kids (and adults) absolutely love.

The Basketball Challenge games scattered throughout various arcades test your shooting skills with prizes that scale based on your score. Make three consecutive shots and you’re looking at a medium prize; nail seven in a row and you’ve earned yourself a jumbo stuffed animal.

Must-Play Games and Winning Strategies

Skee-Ball is the undisputed king of boardwalk games. The key to racking up points? Aim for the 40-point holes on the sides rather than going for the elusive 100-point center. Consistent 40s will outscore lucky 100s every time. Most games cost 2-3 tokens, and scoring over 400 points typically nets you enough tickets for a decent prize.

The “Test Your Strength” hammer games are all about technique, not pure muscle. Hold the hammer at the very end, swing in a perfect arc, and follow through completely. Many visitors are surprised when a well-timed swing from a smaller player outperforms brute force.

Prize Strategies That Actually Work

Understanding the ticket economy is crucial for arcade success. Small prizes (candy, small toys) typically cost 20-50 tickets, medium prizes (stuffed animals, beach gear) run 100-300 tickets, and those giant prizes everyone wants require 500-1000+ tickets.

The most efficient ticket-earning games include:

• ✓Coin pusher games for steady ticket accumulation
• ✓Spinning wheel games with multiple winning sections
• ✓Memory pattern games that reward skill over luck

Perfect Location for Arcade Adventures

Staying with Coastal Collection Hotels puts you within walking distance of all the boardwalk action. Our five locally-owned properties — from the family-friendly Beachside Resort to the cozy Sunrise Inn — mean you can easily return to your room to drop off prizes before heading back out for more games.

After spending the morning enjoying Wildwood’s free beaches, families love the seamless transition to boardwalk gaming in the afternoon. No parking hassles, no long walks carrying armfuls of prizes — just pure arcade fun knowing your comfortable room is steps away.

The combination of skill games, pure luck, and that distinctive boardwalk atmosphere makes Wildwood’s arcades an essential part of any shore vacation. Whether you’re aiming for the perfect skee-ball game or trying to master the claw machine, these classic attractions continue to create memories that last long after the prizes are forgotten.

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 20 minutes from Wildwood’s bustling boardwalk lies one of New Jersey’s best-kept family secrets: the Cape May County Park & Zoo, where admission is completely free and the memories are priceless.

Why Cape May Zoo is Perfect for Wildwood Families

Located at 707 Route 9 North in Cape May Court House, this 85-acre zoo houses over 550 animals representing more than 250 species. What makes it truly special isn’t just the impressive collection of wildlife — it’s that families can enjoy a full day of adventure without spending a dime on admission. The only costs are parking ($5) and whatever treats or souvenirs you choose to buy.

The zoo’s Africa exhibit is consistently rated as a must-see, featuring giraffes, zebras, and African lions in spacious, naturalistic habitats. Kids love the interactive elements, including the giraffe feeding platform where they can hand-feed these gentle giants for just $3 per cup of lettuce.

Must-See Exhibits and Experiences

The World of Birds exhibit houses one of the largest free-flight aviaries on the East Coast, where colorful tropical birds fly freely around visitors. The reptile house features everything from tiny poison dart frogs to massive Burmese pythons, while the barnyard area lets little ones pet goats, sheep, and miniature horses.

Don’t miss the sea lion cove, where playful California sea lions splash and dive in their 90,000-gallon habitat. The scheduled feeding demonstrations are educational and entertaining, typically happening twice daily at 11 AM and 3 PM.

• ✓Snow leopard habitat with viewing deck
• ✓Children’s zoo with hands-on animal encounters
• ✓Playground areas for different age groups
• ✓Picnic areas with tables and grills

Planning Your Zoo Adventure from Wildwood

The drive from any of Coastal Collection’s five locally-owned properties takes about 20 minutes via Route 109 North. Plan for a 3-4 hour visit to see everything comfortably. The zoo is open year-round, though hours vary by season — typically 10 AM to 4:30 PM in winter and 10 AM to 5 PM in summer.

Perfect Pairing: Zoo and Beach Days

What makes staying with Coastal Collection special is how easily you can combine inland adventures with beach time. Spend your morning exploring the zoo, then return to Wildwood for an afternoon on our free beaches. All of our properties — from the Coastal Sands Inn to Sunset Beach Hotel — are within walking distance of the famous boardwalk, so you can grab dinner at Morey’s Piers or catch a sunset after your zoo adventure.

The Cape May Zoo proves that the best family experiences don’t have to break the bank. Combined with Wildwood’s free beaches and affordable accommodations at our locally-owned hotels, you can create an incredible family vacation that delivers maximum fun for your dollar.

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 Wildwood family vacation? The right packing list can make the difference between smooth sailing and scrambling to buy forgotten essentials at boardwalk prices.

Beach Day Essentials

Wildwood’s free beaches stretch for miles, giving your family plenty of room to spread out. Pack a large beach umbrella or pop-up tent — the Jersey shore sun can be intense, especially during midday hours. Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), beach towels for everyone, and a mesh bag for collecting shells.

Water shoes are a game-changer here. Wildwood’s sandy beaches are generally smooth, but the occasional shell fragment can surprise little feet. Pack a small cooler with plenty of water and snacks — staying hydrated is crucial during long beach days.

Boardwalk Adventures

The Wildwood Boardwalk demands comfortable walking shoes — flip-flops will leave feet sore after hours of exploring. Pack a small backpack or crossbody bag for each adult to carry water bottles, snacks, and prizes from the arcade games.

Bring cash for boardwalk activities. While many vendors accept cards, having bills makes transactions quicker, especially at smaller game booths. A portable phone charger is essential — you’ll be taking countless photos of the kids on rides and capturing those perfect sunset moments.

What NOT to Overpack

Skip the bulky beach chairs — most of our Coastal Collection properties offer beach chair rentals or loans. Leave the hair dryer at home too; all our rooms come equipped with them. Beach toys? Bring a few favorites, but don’t go overboard. Kids often prefer building sandcastles with simple buckets and shovels rather than elaborate gadgets.

• ✓Beach umbrella and tent
• ✓Water shoes for the whole family
• ✓Reef-safe sunscreen and after-sun lotion
• ✓Comfortable walking shoes for boardwalk
• ✓Light layers for evening temperatures

Smart Packing for Pool Time

Many of our five locally-owned hotels feature pools, so pack accordingly. Bring pool floats for little ones and consider packing a separate set of swim clothes for pool versus beach use. Pool chlorine and salt water affect fabric differently, so having dedicated suits extends their life.

Pack flip-flops specifically for pool areas — they’re easier to slip on and off than water shoes and dry quickly between pool and room visits.

The beauty of staying with Coastal Collection Hotels — whether at our traditional properties or private Airbnb rentals — is the flexibility to return to your room throughout the day. Forgot the camera? Need to grab a sweatshirt? Our convenient location near both beach and boardwalk means nothing is ever more than a short walk away.

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 locals and repeat visitors start raving about a sandwich shop, you know it’s something special. The Rook in Wildwood has earned that kind of reputation — the place where a simple sandwich becomes an unforgettable meal.

What Makes The Rook Special

Located just off the bustling boardwalk area, The Rook has mastered the art of the perfect sandwich. This isn’t your typical beach town deli — every sandwich is crafted with attention to detail that rivals the best urban delis. From their house-roasted meats to their freshly baked breads, The Rook proves that great food doesn’t need to be complicated, just done right.

The menu focuses on premium ingredients without the premium attitude. Their signature sandwiches range from classic Italian combos to creative seasonal specialties that showcase local flavors. The portions are generous enough to fuel a full day of beach activities, and the flavors are memorable enough to have you planning your next visit before you’ve finished eating.

Must-Try Sandwiches

The Rook’s menu changes seasonally, but several standouts have earned permanent status with regulars. Their Italian combo featuring house-cured meats, fresh mozzarella, and a tangy olive tapenade is consistently praised. The roasted turkey and avocado on their signature sourdough is another crowd favorite, especially when paired with their house-made chips.

Vegetarian options aren’t afterthoughts here — The Rook creates thoughtful plant-based combinations that satisfy even the most dedicated carnivores. Their grilled vegetable sandwich with herbed goat cheese has converted more than a few skeptics.

Perfect for Beach Days

The Rook understands beach life. Their sandwiches are wrapped to travel well, making them perfect for picnics on Wildwood’s expansive free beaches. The generous portions mean one sandwich can easily be shared, or saved for later when you’ve worked up an appetite from hours in the sun and surf.

The casual atmosphere welcomes families, couples, and solo diners equally. You’ll find everyone from construction workers grabbing a quick lunch to families planning their beach day feast. The staff knows their regulars by name and treats newcomers like future friends.

Easy Access from Coastal Collection

Staying at any of our five locally-owned Coastal Collection properties puts The Rook within easy walking distance or a short drive. After grabbing sandwiches, you’re perfectly positioned to head to the boardwalk or claim your spot on the beach. Our guests often make The Rook part of their morning routine — picking up lunch before heading out for a full day of Wildwood adventures.

The Rook represents what makes Wildwood special — authentic local businesses that prioritize quality and community over tourist traps. When you’re craving a sandwich that lives up to the hype, The Rook delivers every time. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself planning your next visit before you’ve left.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

When the sun starts to set over Wildwood’s harbor, there’s no better place to be than Ship N Shore Bar, where waterfront views meet cold drinks and that laid-back Jersey Shore vibe we all crave.

Harbor Views That Never Get Old

Ship N Shore Bar sits right on Wildwood’s back bay, offering unobstructed water views that make every drink taste better. The outdoor deck is the real star here – spacious enough to spread out but cozy enough to feel intimate. You’ll watch fishing boats head out for their evening trips while pleasure craft cruise by, creating that perfect backdrop for unwinding after a day on our free Wildwood beaches.

The bar attracts a nice mix of locals and visitors, which always makes for interesting conversations. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to watch the sunset with a cold one in hand, the atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between relaxed and lively.

Happy Hour Done Right

Ship N Shore’s happy hour typically runs during those perfect late-afternoon hours when you’re ready to transition from beach mode to evening relaxation. Drink specials usually include discounted drafts, well drinks, and house wines – exactly what you want when you’re settling in for the long haul.

The bar food menu covers all the classics you’d expect from a waterfront spot. Think wings, nachos, and fresh seafood appetizers that pair perfectly with the harbor setting. The portions are generous enough to share, making it easy to sample several dishes while you’re taking in the views.

More Than Just Drinks

What sets Ship N Shore apart from other Wildwood bars is the genuine harbor atmosphere. This isn’t a themed restaurant trying to feel nautical – it’s the real deal, with working boats and actual fishing activity happening right outside. The sounds of seagulls, gentle waves, and boat engines create a soundtrack you can’t get anywhere else.

The staff knows their regulars but welcomes newcomers warmly, sharing recommendations about both drinks and local attractions. They’re genuinely proud of their waterfront location and happy to point out interesting boats or wildlife you might spot from the deck.

Perfect After Your Beach Day

After spending the day on Wildwood’s expansive free beaches, Ship N Shore makes the ideal transition spot. From any of our five locally-owned Coastal Collection properties, you’re just a short drive or bike ride to the harbor area. Our guests love having both the ocean beaches and the back bay experiences so easily accessible.

The timing works perfectly too – you can spend the morning and afternoon on the beach, head back to your room at one of our hotels to rinse off and change, then cruise over to Ship N Shore for that golden hour drink session. Since we’re walking distance to the boardwalk, you can even make it a full evening by heading there after your harbor happy hour.

Ship N Shore represents everything great about Wildwood’s diverse entertainment scene – it’s authentic, welcoming, and offers experiences you simply can’t get inland. Whether you’re looking for a romantic sunset spot or just want to unwind with harbor views, it delivers that perfect Jersey Shore evening every single time.

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 →

Soaring 400 feet above Wildwood’s pristine coastline with nothing but ocean breeze and breathtaking views — parasailing offers the ultimate bird’s-eye perspective of our beloved Jersey Shore. If you’ve been watching those colorful parachutes drift across the sky and wondering what it’s like up there, here’s everything you need to know for your first parasailing adventure.

What Actually Happens During Parasailing

Contrary to what many first-timers imagine, you don’t run off a cliff or jump from a platform. Parasailing in Wildwood is entirely boat-based — you’ll launch and land right on the vessel’s deck. The experienced crew handles all the technical work while you simply sit back in a specially designed harness and enjoy the ride.

Most Wildwood parasailing operations run from the back bay waters behind the island, launching from marinas near Schellenger’s Landing or Sunset Lake. The entire experience typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, though your actual flight time is usually 8-12 minutes at heights ranging from 400 to 800 feet.

Safety and Age Requirements

Most Wildwood parasailing companies welcome participants as young as 6 years old, though children under 12 must typically fly tandem with an adult. The weight requirements usually range from 90 to 450 pounds, and tandem flights can accommodate up to 500 pounds combined.

You don’t need any special skills or experience — the crew handles everything. The modern winch systems used by local operators are incredibly safe, with multiple backup systems and Coast Guard-approved equipment. Weather conditions are monitored constantly, and trips are cancelled if winds exceed safe limits.

What You’ll See from Above

The aerial views of Wildwood are simply spectacular. Looking east, you’ll see the entire five-mile stretch of free beaches dotted with colorful umbrellas and busy with families enjoying the surf. The famous boardwalk appears as a wooden ribbon lined with amusement piers, while the distinctive red rooftops of classic Wildwood motels create a nostalgic patchwork below.

To the west, the back bay reveals a maze of channels, wetlands, and small islands that most visitors never see from ground level. On clear days, you can spot Cape Henlopen across Delaware Bay and even catch glimpses of the Delaware Memorial Bridge in the distance.

Pricing and Booking Tips

Expect to pay around $80-$120 per person for single flights, with tandem rides typically costing $140-$180 total. Many companies offer package deals that include multiple activities or group discounts for families. Advance reservations are essential during peak summer weeks, especially for sunset flights that book up quickly.

Several reputable operators work out of Wildwood’s marinas, including businesses that have been safely flying visitors for decades. Most offer online booking and will provide detailed safety briefings before your flight.

Making the Most of Your Experience

The key to enjoying your first parasailing flight is relaxation. Once you’re airborne, the sensation is surprisingly peaceful — more like floating than flying. Many first-timers are amazed by how quiet it is up there, with only the sound of wind and distant ocean waves below.

Don’t forget to look around during your entire flight, not just straight down. The 360-degree views change constantly as the boat moves, offering different perspectives of Wildwood’s coastline, the Victorian charm of Cape May to the south, and the vast Atlantic stretching to the horizon.

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 →

Choosing between Wildwood and Cape May for your family beach vacation? Both Jersey Shore destinations offer incredible experiences, but they cater to different family styles and budgets.

Beach Quality and Space

Wildwood’s beaches are completely free — no beach tags required — with some of the widest stretches of sand on the entire East Coast. During low tide, you’ll have nearly 1,000 feet of beach to spread out, perfect for families with active kids who need room to run, play volleyball, or build elaborate sandcastles.

Cape May beaches require daily or seasonal beach tags (around $6-8 per day for adults), but offer a more intimate, refined atmosphere. The beaches are narrower but beautifully maintained, with designated quiet zones that appeal to families seeking a calmer vibe.

Entertainment and Activities

Wildwood’s famous boardwalk stretches 2.5 miles and features three amusement piers packed with rides, games, and attractions. Morey’s Piers offers everything from kiddie rides to extreme roller coasters, plus water parks that keep families entertained for days. The boardwalk also hosts free concerts and events throughout summer.

Cape May takes a more historical approach with Victorian house tours, lighthouse visits, and nature walks through Cape May Point State Park. The Washington Street Mall provides charming shopping and dining, but nighttime entertainment is limited compared to Wildwood’s bustling scene.

Dining and Budget Considerations

Wildwood’s boardwalk food scene includes everything from Curley’s Fries and Kohr Bros. frozen custard to full family restaurants. Many establishments offer early bird specials and family packages that make dining out affordable for larger families.

Accommodation and Location Benefits

Staying with Coastal Collection Hotels puts you within walking distance of Wildwood’s boardwalk and free beaches, eliminating the need for daily beach tag purchases and parking hassles. Our five locally-owned properties — from the family-friendly Coastal Sands Inn to the Beachside Resort — plus private Airbnb rentals offer accommodations for every family size and budget.

The proximity factor can’t be overstated when traveling with children. No car rides to the beach, no parking fees, and easy trips back to your room for naps, snacks, or forgotten sunscreen make your vacation significantly more relaxed.

The Family Verdict

For families seeking action-packed fun, budget-friendly options, and the convenience of free beaches, Wildwood wins hands down. The combination of expansive beaches, endless entertainment, and walkable convenience makes it ideal for families with children of all ages. Cape May better suits families preferring quieter, more refined experiences and those willing to invest in premium dining and historic charm.

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 →