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Wildwood’s three-mile stretch of free beaches and iconic boardwalk might seem like toddler paradise, but seasoned parents know that tiny humans come with big logistics. Here’s your insider guide to conquering the Wildwoods with little ones in tow.

Beach Strategy: Work WITH the Schedule, Not Against It

Forget the Instagram-worthy sunrise beach walks. With toddlers, timing is everything. Hit the beach by 9 AM before the sand gets scorching hot — those little feet are sensitive. The area near the boardwalk at Oak Avenue offers easy bathroom access and shorter walks back to your room when meltdowns inevitably happen.

Pack a beach wagon instead of trying to carry everything. You’ll need it for snacks, drinks, extra clothes, toys, and the inevitable “I’m tired” moments. The wide, flat beaches here make wagon-pulling a breeze compared to other shore destinations.

Boardwalk Adventures for Short Attention Spans

The Wildwood Boardwalk stretches for 2.5 miles, but toddlers don’t need to conquer it all in one day. Start at Morey’s Surfside Pier, where the kiddie rides are perfect for ages 2-5. The Convoy ride and Mini Himalaya offer gentle thrills without the terror-induced tears.

For non-ride entertainment, the boardwalk’s numerous arcade games work well for older toddlers, while the street performers near Schellenger Avenue provide free entertainment. Bring quarters — lots of them. The boardwalk still runs on old-school arcade tokens and coin games.

Toddler-Friendly Dining That Won’t Break the Bank

Skip the fancy restaurants and embrace boardwalk casual. Curley’s Fries remains a Wildwood institution — the vinegar fries are surprisingly popular with kids who normally reject anything “different.” For sit-down meals, Duffer’s Restaurant on New York Avenue offers a kids menu and high chairs without the tourist markup.

Don’t overlook the convenience stores along Pacific Avenue. Stock up on toddler essentials like goldfish crackers, juice boxes, and backup snacks. Trust us, you’ll need them when the boardwalk prices kick in.

Nap Time Strategy and Room Essentials

Here’s where staying with a locally-owned operation like Coastal Collection Hotels becomes crucial. Our properties — from the family-friendly Beachside Resort to the cozy Sunrise Inn — understand that toddler families need flexibility. Need extra towels for sandy meltdowns? We’ve got you covered. Require a mini-fridge for snacks and sippy cups? Already included.

The walking distance to the boardwalk from our five hotel properties means easy mid-day retreats for naps or outfit changes. No lengthy car rides with cranky toddlers — just a quick stroll back to air conditioning and familiar surroundings.

Essential Toddler Packing List

• ✓Beach wagon for hauling everything
• ✓Swim shoes for hot sand and boardwalk splinters
• ✓Portable fan for stroller rides
• ✓Extra clothes (beach days get messy)
• ✓Roll of quarters for arcade games

Remember, successful toddler vacations aren’t about cramming in every activity — they’re about creating happy moments without the stress. Wildwood’s free beaches, walkable layout, and family-friendly atmosphere make it surprisingly manageable for parents ready to embrace the beautiful chaos of traveling with tiny humans.

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 beach vacation shouldn’t mean leaving accessibility behind. Wildwood’s expansive coastline welcomes everyone, and knowing what resources are available makes all the difference for a perfect family getaway.

Beach Wheelchair Availability and Access Points

Wildwood provides free beach wheelchairs during the summer season, typically from Memorial Day through Labor Day. These specialized chairs feature wide balloon tires designed to roll smoothly across sand. You can reserve them through the Wildwood Beach Patrol headquarters or request one directly from the lifeguard stations.

The main access points with the best wheelchair accessibility include:

• ✓Olde New Jersey Avenue – central location with smooth pathways
• ✓Andrews Avenue – popular family area with gentle slopes
• ✓Maple Avenue – quieter section with excellent accessibility features

Boardwalk Accessibility Features

Wildwood’s famous boardwalk spans 2.5 miles and remains fully accessible with smooth surfaces and gentle ramps at every street crossing. The boardwalk connects directly to beach access points, making the transition from accommodation to sand seamless. Most attractions, including Morey’s Piers, offer accessible rides and facilities.

The boardwalk features accessible restrooms at regular intervals, including facilities at:

• ✓Schellenger Avenue
• ✓Boardwalk Chapel area
• ✓Near the Convention Center

Beach Mats and Pathway Systems

During peak season, Wildwood installs temporary beach mats that create stable pathways from the boardwalk to the water’s edge at several locations. These rubberized mats provide smooth passage for wheelchairs, walkers, and anyone who needs extra stability on sand.

Additional Accessibility Resources

Beyond beach access, Wildwood offers several support services. The City of Wildwood maintains updated accessibility information on their website, including seasonal changes to beach services.

Remember that Wildwood beaches are completely free – no daily fees or parking meters on the beach itself. This makes extended stays more affordable for families who want to spend multiple days enjoying the accessible amenities.

Why Stay Local Makes the Difference

Choosing locally-owned accommodations like our five Coastal Collection hotels means working with staff who understand Wildwood’s accessibility resources firsthand. We can help coordinate beach wheelchair reservations, recommend the best access points for your needs, and provide detailed directions to accessible dining and attractions. Our properties offer accessible rooms and are positioned strategically near boardwalk access points, making your beach vacation both comfortable and convenient.

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 20-minute drive north from Wildwood lies Avalon, one of New Jersey’s most elegant beach towns. This upscale Seven Mile Island destination offers a perfect contrast to the bustling boardwalk energy — think pristine beaches, boutique shopping, and sophisticated dining that makes for an unforgettable day trip.

Getting to Avalon from Wildwood

The journey from your comfortable home base at any of our five locally-owned Coastal Collection properties takes you north on Ocean Drive through Stone Harbor. The scenic coastal route offers glimpses of Hereford Inlet and back bay marshlands before arriving in Avalon. Pro tip: Leave by 9 AM to secure prime beach parking and have the full day to explore.

Avalon’s Beautiful Beaches

While Wildwood’s beaches are completely free and stretch for miles, Avalon offers a different beach experience with wide, pristine stretches of sand and a more refined atmosphere. Beach tags are required from Memorial Day through Labor Day, costing around $10 for the day or $25 for the season. The beaches are impeccably maintained, and you’ll find fewer crowds than the bustling Wildwood shoreline.

30th Street Beach is particularly family-friendly with convenient restrooms and a snack bar nearby. For a quieter experience, head to the beaches around 78th Street where you’ll find more space to spread out and enjoy the pristine Atlantic coastline.

Shopping on Dune Drive

Avalon’s charming downtown centers around Dune Drive, where boutique shops line the tree-shaded streets. Unlike the souvenir shops near Wildwood’s boardwalk, Avalon’s retail scene focuses on upscale beachwear, home décor, and unique gifts.

The compact downtown area makes it easy to browse multiple stores in an afternoon. Many shops feature items you won’t find in typical beach towns — think artisanal jewelry, high-end beach accessories, and sophisticated home goods perfect for bringing a piece of the shore back home.

Dining with a View

Avalon’s restaurant scene elevates typical shore dining with waterfront locations and refined menus. The Windrift Hotel’s beachfront restaurant offers stunning ocean views with their famous Sunday brunch, while Blue Pig Tavern serves farm-to-table cuisine in a cozy atmosphere just steps from the beach.

For a more casual lunch, grab fish tacos at Sea Grill or enjoy brick-oven pizza at Avalon Brew Pub. The portions are generous, and most restaurants offer outdoor seating where you can enjoy the sea breeze while dining.

Why Stay in Wildwood for Your Avalon Adventure

After a day of Avalon’s refined pleasures, you’ll appreciate returning to Wildwood’s vibrant energy and unbeatable value. Our Coastal Collection properties put you within walking distance of the famous boardwalk and free beaches, while still being perfectly positioned for day trips up and down the coast. Whether you choose the Coastal Sands Inn, Paradise Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, Sunrise Inn, or one of our private Airbnb rentals, you’ll have comfortable accommodations at a fraction of Avalon’s premium hotel rates.

The 20-minute drive back gives you time to decompress from your elegant Avalon day before diving back into Wildwood’s classic boardwalk atmosphere — the best of both worlds for your Jersey Shore 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.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

Nothing says summer like celebrating America’s birthday at the Jersey Shore, and Wildwood knows how to throw a party that’ll make your holiday weekend absolutely unforgettable.

Fireworks That Light Up the Entire Island

Wildwood’s July 4th fireworks display is legendary along the Jersey Shore. The show launches from the beach at 26th Street around 9:15 PM, sending colorful bursts over the Atlantic Ocean that reflect beautifully on the water. What makes this special? You can watch from anywhere along our free beaches — no tickets, no fees, just pure American celebration under the stars.

The best viewing spots stretch from 22nd to 30th Street, where families spread blankets on the sand hours before showtime. Many folks grab dinner at one of the nearby restaurants and then stroll down to claim their perfect spot.

Boardwalk Festivities All Weekend Long

The Wildwood Boardwalk transforms into a red, white, and blue celebration starting July 3rd. Street performers, live bands, and patriotic decorations create an electric atmosphere that runs well past midnight. The amusement piers — Morey’s Surfside, Mariner’s Landing, and Adventure Pier — typically offer special July 4th promotions and extended hours.

Don’t miss the annual bike decorating contest on July 4th morning, where kids (and adults!) show off their most creative patriotic rides. Registration usually starts around 10 AM near the Wildwoods Convention Center.

Beach Activities and Water Fun

July 4th weekend means perfect beach weather, and Wildwood’s wide, sandy beaches offer endless entertainment. Beach volleyball nets pop up everywhere, families organize their own softball games, and the ocean temperature is finally warm enough for extended swimming sessions.

Food, Drinks, and Local Favorites

July 4th weekend brings out the best in Wildwood’s food scene. The boardwalk vendors serve up classics like Curley’s Fries, Johnson’s Popcorn, and fresh-squeezed lemonade. For sit-down meals, many restaurants offer special holiday menus featuring crab cakes, lobster rolls, and all-American BBQ.

Several beachfront bars host rooftop parties with live DJs and drink specials. The key is making reservations early — July 4th weekend is one of the busiest times of the summer.

Why Stay Local Makes All the Difference

Celebrating July 4th in Wildwood means dealing with massive crowds and limited parking — unless you’re staying walking distance to everything. Our five locally-owned Coastal Collection hotels put you right in the heart of the action, so you can easily pop back to your room to rest, recharge, or grab forgotten sunscreen.

While visitors fight for parking spaces that cost $20+ per day, you’ll be strolling to the fireworks, enjoying a quick shower between beach and dinner, and avoiding the traffic nightmares that come with trying to leave the island after the celebration ends.

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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Step back in time to the era of poodle skirts, classic cars, and rock ‘n’ roll at Wildwood’s annual Fabulous 50s Weekend, one of the Jersey Shore’s most beloved vintage celebrations that transforms the boardwalk into a nostalgic wonderland.

Classic Car Show Spectacle

The heart of Fabulous 50s Weekend is the incredible classic car show that lines the Wildwood boardwalk with hundreds of meticulously restored vehicles. From gleaming Chevrolet Bel Airs to pristine Ford Thunderbirds, car enthusiasts display their prized possessions while visitors can walk among these automotive treasures completely free. The show typically runs from Friday through Sunday, with Saturday being the biggest day for attendance and variety.

What makes this event special is the accessibility – you can stroll right up to these magnificent machines, chat with their passionate owners, and learn the stories behind each restoration. Many owners dress in period costume, adding to the authentic 1950s atmosphere that makes Wildwood’s version stand out from other car shows.

Sock Hops and Live Entertainment

The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. Evening sock hops bring the boardwalk alive with live doo-wop groups, tribute bands, and DJs spinning authentic 50s hits. The Wildwood Convention Center often hosts the main indoor sock hop, while smaller venues along the boardwalk offer more intimate dance floors where couples can swing dance under the stars.

Live entertainment includes tribute acts honoring Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, and other rock ‘n’ roll legends. Street performers in vintage costumes add spontaneous entertainment throughout the weekend, creating photo opportunities and sing-along moments that capture the carefree spirit of the decade.

Vintage Shopping and Dining

Local shops embrace the theme with special 50s merchandise, from reproduction saddle shoes to vintage-inspired sundresses. The boardwalk’s classic amusement piers – Morey’s Surfside, Mariner’s Landing, and Adventure Pier – often offer special pricing during the event weekend, making it perfect for families wanting to experience both vintage charm and modern thrills.

Perfect Weekend Base

Staying at one of Coastal Collection’s five locally-owned hotels puts you within easy walking distance of all the 50s Weekend action. Our properties – Coastal Sands Inn, Paradise Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, and Sunrise Inn – offer the convenience you need for a full weekend of vintage fun, plus private Airbnb rentals for larger groups.

After dancing the night away at a sock hop, you can stroll back to your comfortable room without worrying about parking or transportation. During the day, you’ll have instant access to Wildwood’s free beaches for a refreshing break between classic car viewings, and our front desk staff knows all the best viewing spots and hidden gems.

Whether you’re a classic car enthusiast, a fan of 1950s culture, or simply looking for a unique family weekend, Fabulous 50s Weekend offers the perfect blend of nostalgia and boardwalk fun that makes Wildwood special 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 →

Just a 20-minute scenic drive north from Wildwood lies Avalon, one of New Jersey’s most charming beach towns. This upscale shore community offers pristine beaches, boutique shopping, and exceptional dining — making it the perfect day trip when you’re staying at one of our five locally-owned hotels at Coastal Collection.

Getting to Avalon from Wildwood

The drive from Wildwood to Avalon takes you along scenic Ocean Drive (Route 109), offering beautiful bay views along the way. You’ll cross the Townsends Inlet Bridge with stunning vistas of marshlands and waterways. Parking in Avalon costs around $20-25 for the day during peak season, with meters accepting credit cards and the ParkMobile app.

Avalon’s Beautiful Beaches

Avalon’s beaches are notably wider and less crowded than many other Jersey Shore destinations. Beach tags are required and cost $8 per day or $35 for the season. The best family-friendly beaches are around 21st to 30th Street, offering clean sand, lifeguards during summer months, and well-maintained facilities.

The beaches here feel more refined than typical shore towns, with manicured dunes and less commercial development visible from the sand. It’s a nice contrast to Wildwood’s bustling boardwalk scene — though both have their charm!

Shopping Along Dune Drive

Avalon’s main shopping district runs along Dune Drive from roughly 21st to 30th Street. This isn’t your typical boardwalk souvenir shopping — you’ll find upscale boutiques, home decor stores, and specialty shops.

The shopping here tends to be pricier than Wildwood, but the quality and unique selections make it worth browsing. You’ll find everything from designer swimwear to coastal home decor that captures that sophisticated shore aesthetic.

Dining Destinations

Avalon’s restaurant scene focuses on fresh seafood and upscale casual dining. The Windrift Restaurant is a local institution, offering oceanfront dining with fantastic sunset views. Expect to pay $25-35 for dinner entrees, but the location and quality justify the price.

For lunch, Café Loren serves excellent sandwiches and salads in a cozy setting, while Water Star Grille offers creative American cuisine with bay views. Many restaurants don’t take reservations, so plan for potential waits during peak summer hours.

Why Stay in Wildwood for Your Avalon Adventure

While Avalon is beautiful, staying at Coastal Collection Hotels in Wildwood gives you the best of both worlds. You’ll enjoy Wildwood’s free beaches and walking distance to our iconic boardwalk, plus easy access to explore upscale towns like Avalon when you want a change of pace.

Our five locally-owned hotels — from Coastal Sands Inn to Sunset Beach Hotel — offer comfortable accommodations at better value than Avalon’s premium pricing. After a day exploring Avalon’s shops and restaurants, you’ll appreciate returning to Wildwood’s relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere and all the evening entertainment our boardwalk provides.

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 →

With three action-packed piers stretching across six blocks of Wildwood’s famous boardwalk, Morey’s Piers offers more than 100 rides and attractions. But which ones deserve your precious vacation time?

Adventure Pier: The Thrill Seeker’s Paradise

Located at Spencer Avenue and the Boardwalk, Adventure Pier packs the biggest punch for adrenaline junkies. The crown jewel here is The Great Nor’Easter, a suspended roller coaster that swings riders through loops and corkscrews high above the beach.

Don’t miss The “it” ride — a 90-foot tower swing that spins riders in thrilling circles while offering breathtaking ocean views. The Runaway Tram, inspired by Wildwood’s historic Tramcar, delivers family-friendly thrills with twists, turns, and surprising drops that keep everyone entertained.

Surfside Pier: Classic Boardwalk Fun

The iconic Giant Wheel dominates the skyline at Surfside Pier, offering stunning panoramic views of Wildwood’s coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. This 156-foot Ferris wheel is worth the wait, especially at sunset when the sky paints everything golden.

Families with younger kids will love The Sea Serpent roller coaster — thrilling enough for older siblings but not too intense for the little ones. The Sky Ships provide a gentler nautical adventure, perfect for kids who want to feel like they’re soaring above the pier.

Mariner’s Pier: Something for Everyone

The middle pier strikes the perfect balance with attractions spanning all thrill levels. The Flitzer offers a wild mouse-style coaster experience with hairpin turns and sudden drops, while the spinning tea cups and carousel provide timeless boardwalk charm.

Skip These Common Wait Traps

While most rides deliver great experiences, some consistently have longer lines than they’re worth. The smaller kiddie rides often have surprisingly long waits relative to their brief duration. Instead, focus on the signature attractions that define each pier’s personality.

• ✓Hit major coasters early morning or late evening
• ✓Save the Giant Wheel for sunset views
• ✓Use meal times for popular family rides

Your Perfect Pier Base

Staying with Coastal Collection Hotels puts you within walking distance of all three piers, so you can easily pop back to your room for breaks or switch between different pier experiences throughout your visit. Our five locally-owned properties — from the Coastal Sands Inn to Sunset Beach Hotel, plus private Airbnb rentals — mean you’re never more than a few blocks from 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.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

With three action-packed piers stretching across six blocks of the Wildwood Boardwalk, Morey’s Piers offers over 100 rides and attractions that can easily overwhelm first-time visitors. Knowing which rides deliver the biggest thrills for your wait time makes all the difference in maximizing your fun.

Adventure Pier: The Thrill Seeker’s Paradise

Located at Spencer Avenue and the Boardwalk, Adventure Pier houses the most heart-pounding attractions. The Great Nor’Easter suspended roller coaster consistently ranks as a must-ride, with shorter lines mid-week and in the evening. This inverted coaster sends you soaring feet-first through loops and corkscrews with stunning ocean views.

The pier’s newest addition, The “it” ride, offers breathtaking panoramic views from its 90-foot tower swing. While the wait can stretch during peak hours, the spinning circles and elevated vantage point make it worth every minute, especially at sunset.

Surfside Pier: Family-Friendly Favorites

The iconic Giant Wheel dominates Surfside Pier’s skyline and provides stunning 360-degree views of Wildwood’s coastline. This classic Ferris wheel moves steadily with minimal wait times, making it perfect for families with younger children or anyone wanting Instagram-worthy shots of the free Wildwood beaches stretching for miles.

The Runaway Tram roller coaster pays homage to Wildwood’s historic Tramcar with family-friendly thrills. Inspired by the beach town’s transportation heritage, this coaster offers just enough excitement without the extreme intensity that might scare younger riders.

Mariner’s Pier: The Sweet Spot

Mariner’s Pier strikes the perfect balance between thrills and accessibility. The Sea Serpent roller coaster delivers serious excitement with two loops but typically has shorter wait times than Adventure Pier’s flagship rides. The Sky Ships offer a gentler aerial adventure perfect for young ones, with nautical theming that captures Wildwood’s seaside spirit.

Timing Your Visit Like a Pro

Weekday visits offer significantly shorter wait times across all three piers. Friday and Saturday evenings see peak crowds, while Sunday through Thursday provides the best ride-to-wait ratio. Late evening visits often feature walk-on experiences for popular attractions as day-trippers head home.

• ✓Longest waits: Great Nor’Easter, Zip Line, Giant Wheel (peak times)
• ✓Best value rides: Sea Serpent, Runaway Tram, “it” ride
• ✓Hidden gems: Dante’s Dungeon dark ride, Spring Shot

Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or seeking family-friendly fun, Morey’s Piers delivers unforgettable experiences. With strategic planning and insider knowledge, you’ll spend more time riding and less time waiting, making the most of your Wildwood adventure.

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 →

Picture this: bare feet in the sand, country music filling the salty air, and three days of non-stop entertainment right on Wildwood’s famous beach. The Barefoot Country Music Fest has become one of New Jersey’s most anticipated summer events, transforming our beloved shoreline into country music paradise.

What Makes Barefoot Country Music Fest Special

This isn’t your typical concert venue — it’s a multi-day beach festival that takes full advantage of Wildwood’s stunning coastline. The main stage sits right on the sand, creating an unforgettable backdrop where the ocean meets incredible live music. Past lineups have featured major country stars alongside up-and-coming artists, giving festival-goers everything from chart-topping hits to hidden gems.

The festival typically runs over a long weekend in summer, with general admission tickets starting around $75 per day and VIP packages offering premium viewing areas, exclusive bars, and meet-and-greet opportunities. What sets this event apart is the relaxed beach atmosphere — you can literally dig your toes in the sand while watching your favorite artists perform.

Beyond the Main Stage

While the headlining acts draw the crowds, Barefoot Country Music Fest offers much more than just concerts. Food vendors serve everything from classic boardwalk treats to BBQ favorites, craft beer tents feature local New Jersey breweries, and merchandise booths let you take home festival memories. Many attendees make it a full beach day, arriving early to claim their spot and staying late for after-parties.

The festival also partners with local Wildwood businesses, creating special events at nearby restaurants and bars. The boardwalk comes alive with country music fans, street performers, and that infectious festival energy that makes everyone feel like they’re part of something special.

Planning Your Festival Weekend

Smart festival-goers know that location is everything. Staying within walking distance of both the beach venue and the famous Wildwood Boardwalk means you can easily pop back to your room to freshen up, grab a quick rest, or change clothes between shows. No dealing with traffic, expensive parking, or long rides back to distant hotels.

Consider booking your accommodations as early as possible — festival weekends fill up fast in Wildwood. Whether you prefer the classic charm of a locally-owned inn or the flexibility of a private vacation rental, having a home base you can easily walk to makes all the difference in your festival experience.

Making the Most of Your Wildwood Weekend

The beauty of attending Barefoot Country Music Fest is that you’re not just getting a concert — you’re getting a full Wildwood beach vacation. Start your mornings with sunrise walks on the free beaches, spend your afternoons at the festival, then explore the boardwalk’s rides, games, and famous Curley’s Fries in the evening.

With Coastal Collection’s five distinctive properties plus private Airbnb options, you can find the perfect fit for your group size and style. From couples seeking a romantic beach getaway with great music to families wanting easy access to both the festival and Wildwood’s famous attractions, staying local means you’re always just minutes from the action — and just minutes from a comfortable place to recharge.

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’s bustling boardwalk lies one of South Jersey’s most peaceful hidden gems — the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary. This 21-acre coastal preserve offers families a perfect escape from the beach crowds while staying close enough for an afternoon return to Wildwood’s free beaches.

What Makes Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary Special

The Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary protects the largest heronry on the East Coast, where thousands of wading birds nest each spring and summer. From late March through August, you’ll spot great blue herons, snowy egrets, black-crowned night herons, and glossy ibis building nests in the sanctuary’s mature trees.

The sanctuary features a quarter-mile boardwalk that winds through the preserve without disturbing the wildlife. Educational signs along the path help families identify different species and understand their nesting behaviors. Unlike many wildlife areas, this sanctuary is completely free to visit and open year-round from dawn to dusk.

Planning Your Visit from Wildwood

The sanctuary sits on 2nd Avenue in Stone Harbor, easily accessible via the Garden State Parkway. From any of Coastal Collection’s five locally-owned properties — whether you’re staying at the Beachside Resort or our cozy Sunrise Inn — it’s a straight shot north on the Parkway to Exit 10B.

Parking is available along 2nd Avenue, though spaces fill up during peak summer weekends. The sanctuary entrance is clearly marked with interpretive panels explaining the preserve’s history and importance to migratory birds along the Atlantic Flyway.

What to Bring and Expect

Pack light for this gentle adventure. Essential items include:

• ✓Binoculars (though birds are visible without them)
• ✓Camera with zoom lens for wildlife photography
• ✓Comfortable walking shoes (the boardwalk can be slippery when wet)
• ✓Water bottle and sun protection

The boardwalk is stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it perfect for families with young children. Quiet voices are encouraged to avoid disturbing nesting birds.

Making the Most of Your Stone Harbor Day Trip

After exploring the sanctuary, Stone Harbor’s charming downtown offers boutique shopping and waterfront dining. The town’s beaches are also beautiful, though you’ll appreciate returning to Wildwood’s free beaches where you don’t need beach tags.

The beauty of staying with Coastal Collection is the flexibility to explore beyond Wildwood while maintaining walking distance to the boardwalk when you return. Whether you choose our Paradise Inn for its family-friendly amenities or one of our private Airbnb rentals for extra space, you’re perfectly positioned for both adventure and relaxation.

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 →