Know Before You Go!
Planning a trip to the Wildwoods? This go-to guide covers everything you need to know to make your beach vacation smooth, stress-free, and packed with fun. Check out beach rules, boardwalk tips, parking info, and what to pack along with you. We’ve gathered all the essentials to help you enjoy every second of your stay in the Wildwoods!
Top Things To Do and See
Visit Award-Winning Beaches
Unlike many New Jersey shore towns, the Wildwood’s beaches are completely free. No beach tags, wristbands, or permits are needed. Just bring your gear and go.
Lifeguards are on duty daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. during the summer season (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day). Always swim near a guarded area, especially with kids.
For those looking for some adventure, the Wildwoods’ beaches also serve as an ideal location for surfing, boogie boarding, power boating, jet skiing, sailing, kayaking, and paddle-boarding. Plus, there’s a dog-friendly beach and a large dog park right on the beach at the Glenwood Avenue Beach, ensuring that visitors can bring along their four-legged friends while vacationing in the Wildwoods.
Plan Ahead
Keep these tips in mind when planning your Wildwoods beach visit.
- The beaches in Wildwood are famously wide from the boardwalk to the shore
- Be sure to use a beach cart if you have a lot to carry.
- Wear sandals or water shoes. The sand can get very hot.
- Keep essentials close for easy access in case of sudden weather changes.
- Arrive early for closer access points, especially if you’re parking far or traveling with a large party.
- Alcohol, glass containers, smoking, vaping, fires, grills, and fireworks are not allowed on the beach or the boardwalk.
Explore The Boardwalk
Stretching 38 blocks, this neon-lit boardwalk packs in thrill rides, waterparks, arcades, shops, and 200+ eateries. It’s a classic spot for Jersey Shore fun. Don’t miss these top Boardwalk activities:
- Morey’s Piers: Rides, coasters, and waterparks spread across three piers
- Arcades: There are tons of them! Bring quarters or grab a reloadable card
- Mini Golf: Themes range from pirate ships to classic beachside
Get Your Photo with the Iconic Wildwoods Sign
This 80-foot-long landmark with giant beach balls is a must-snap photo spot at the entrance to the Wildwoods. Designed by architect Richard Stokes and unveiled in 2008, it’s become an iconic backdrop for events, weddings, and millions of vacation selfies. The sign can also be viewed on the Earth-Cam worldwide live video cam at any time here.
The Wildwoods’ Historical Museums
Explore free or low-cost spots like the Doo Wop Museum and Boyer Museum, packed with 1950s–60s Wildwoods history. Also visit the National Marbles Hall of Fame and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, an exact half-size replica of the D.C. original. Discover more museums and cultural attractions here.
The Hereford Inlet Lighthouse
This working 19th-century lighthouse offers tours, museum exhibits, and award-winning English gardens. A peaceful, scenic stop with rich maritime history. Learn more here.
Doo Wop Landmarks
The Wildwoods celebrate their retro roots with the country’s largest collection of Doo-Wop architecture and colorful neon signs. Stop by the Doo Wop Experience Museum to learn more, or hop on the Neon Night Bus Tour for a fun evening ride.
Take a Bike Ride
Take advantage of the Wildwoods’ 12-mile bike path, stretching from the Crest Dunes to the North Wildwood Sea Wall. It’s a scenic, easy way to explore the island on two wheels.
Events
Weekly Events
- Friday Night Fireworks: Every Friday during summer, 10 pm, at Pine Ave beach
- Live Music: All summer long at Centennial Park, Wildwood Crest, Wildwood’s Fox Park, and Byrne Plaza
- Yoga on the Beach: Daily 9am classes on the beach at Burk Ave. behind the Wildwoods Convention Center
- Downtown Wildwoods Farmers Market: Over 70 vendors set up weekly in Byrne Plaza from Memorial Day to Labor Day
- Byrne Plaza Weekly Events: Check out more weekly events like movies, fitness classes, music, markets, and more!
Annual Events
- Polar Bear Plunge (January)
- Wildwoods International Kite Festival (May)
- Barefoot Country Music Fest (June)
- NJ BBQ Championships (July)
- Angelsea Blues Festival (July)
- Mudhen Beach Baseball (August)
- Irish Weekend & Italian Fest (September)
- Wildwoods Thunder Over Waves Airshow (September)
- 50s, 60s & 70s Weekend (October)
Find more weekly, annual, and special events here.
Parking and Getting Around
Street Parking, Meters, and Lots
Metered parking is in effect May–October, typically between 9 am and 12 pm. Rates range from $3-5/hour. Use coins, cards, or the ParkMobile app.
Wildwoods Convention Center Parking lots are open to the public, utilizing either ParkMobile or an attendant kiosk.
Tip: Boardwalk spots fill early! Arrive early for the best chance of prime parking.
EV Charging
There are several EV charging stations located throughout the Wildwoods, including:
- ChargePoint Charging Station on Wisteria Road at Beach Ave
- Blink Charging Station on Rio Grande Ave at Atlantic Ave
- EV Connect Charging Station on Memphis Ave at Atlantic Ave
Ride The Tramcar
The World Famous Sightseer Tram Car is a fun way to get around the 2-mile Boardwalk in the Wildwoods. Rides are $5 per person, and you can purchase discounted tickets at the following locations:
- 16th Avenue Tram Car Kiosk
- 21st Avenue Tram Car Store
- 25th Avenue Morey’s Surfside Pier
- Schellenger Avenue
- Morey’s Mariners Pier
- Youngs Avenue Morey’s Adventure Pier
- Cresse Avenue Tram Car Store
Tip: Download the “Wildwoods Tram Car” app for cashless, touch-free payments. Buy discount ticket books or wristbands, and get your first ride free with purchase!
Where To Stay
Staying near the Boardwalk puts you right in the middle of the action in the Wildwoods! You’ll find many beachfront hotels, motels, and vacation rentals, with ocean views and easy access to all the fun.
Many accommodations offer convenient amenities like pools, hot tubs, and on-site dining.
Tip: Book your accommodations early, especially for holiday weekends!
What To Pack
Beach Essentials
- Beach towels or lightweight blankets
- Reef-safe sunscreen and aloe
- Sunglasses and hats
- Sandals or water shoes
- A beach umbrella or tent
- A small cooler with water and snacks
Boardwalk Evenings
- A light jacket or hoodie
- A powerbank to charge your phone
- Reusable bag for souvenirs
- Quarters and cash for games
- Poncho or small umbrella
- Small, portable fan
FAQs
Do I need beach tags in Wildwood?
Nope! Wildwood’s beaches are completely free. No tags or permits required.
Where can I park for the boardwalk?
Street meters, public lots, and private lots. Use the ParkMobile app for meters.
Are dogs allowed on the beach?
Yes, but only in the designated dog beach at Glenwood Avenue. Dogs must be leashed.
What’s the best time to visit?
Mid-June through August is the peak season. For fewer crowds, try early June or mid-September.
Is the boardwalk open at night?
Yes. Shops and rides are open late (often past 11 p.m.); the tramcar runs until around midnight.
Can I bring food or drinks to the beach?
Yes. Coolers are allowed, but no glass containers or alcohol.
Is the tramcar accessible?
Yes. Newer tramcars are wheelchair-accessible and stroller-friendly. Stops are marked along the boardwalk.
Have more questions? Check out our full FAQ page here.
