The list highlights the Wildwoods for its five miles of FREE beaches and endless attractions
The Wildwoods, NJ – May 19, 2025 – The Wildwoods, NJ have been recognized by NASDAQ’s GoBanking Rates financial publication as one of the 5 Most Affordable Beach Trips on the East Coast in 2025. The list showcases destinations offering both value and memorable experiences. The Wildwoods stood out for its five miles of FREE beaches as a shore destination with numerous attractions, ranging from thrilling nightlife to relaxing amenities, and as one of the few New Jersey beaches that are absolutely FREE. Notably, The Wildwoods were the only New Jersey destination to be featured on the list: 5 Most Affordable Beach Trips on the East Coast.
“This distinction highlights what makes our destination truly special — five miles of beautiful, FREE beaches with a vibrant mix of attractions. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly fun, exciting nightlife, or a peaceful retreat, The Wildwoods deliver an unforgettable experience. We’re especially proud to be the only New Jersey destination included on this list,” explained Louis M. Belasco, Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority Executive Director.
From vibrant nightlife to tranquil getaways, The Wildwoods offer something for every traveler — all without an entry fee to enjoy the sun and sand. The seaside destination is bursting with FREE attractions, including FREE, sprawling, white sand beaches, a two-mile, world-famous Boardwalk, FREE events and festivals, FREE outdoor concerts, FREE Friday Night Fireworks, FREE Movies Under the Stars, FREE live entertainment, FREE scenic bike paths, fishing, crabbing, nature trails, must-see landmarks, and much more – making the resort destination one of the most sought-after and affordable vacation destinations at the Jersey shore.
The famous Wildwoods Boardwalk was recently included in USA Today’s 10Best Reader’s Choice Contest, being ranked as the #1 Best Boardwalk in the USA in 2025. The Wildwoods are also currently nominated in 2025 USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Contest in the category of ‘Best Beaches in New Jersey’ for the second year in a row. Last year, the Wildwoods won the contest being named the Best Beach in New Jersey for 2024. Year after year, the Wildwoods’ FREE beaches and action-packed boardwalk add to the historic, quaint charm of the island, bringing visitors back for generations, and creating an affordable, memorable vacation destination unlike any other.
Consistently named among the country’s top beaches, the Wildwoods are known for their five-mile stretch of FREE, soft white sand, known as sugar sand, offering plenty of room for summer beach activities. Beachgoers can choose a relaxing day in the sun, or more action-packed activities like surfing, boogie boarding, boating, jet skiing, paddle boarding, and kayaking. A dog-friendly beach and dog park at Glenwood Avenue Beach ensures visitors can bring along their four-legged friends.
Taking place almost every week throughout the summer on the five-mile island are FREE-to-attend block parties, craft shows, family outdoor movie nights under the stars, farmer’s markets, and many food and ethnic festivals. A wide variety of FREE entertainment can also be found almost every night of the week throughout the summer, including spectacular Friday Night Fireworks and live outdoor concerts featuring national recording artists, oldies groups, dance, pop, big band music, and more!
The Wildwoods’ Calendar of Events is full of FREE fun events and festivals for the whole family. FREE-to-attend events in the Wildwoods include Sports Cards, Toys, Comics, and Collectible Shows; ethnic street fairs celebrating Latino, Irish and Italian heritage; food and music festivals including the ‘50s, ‘60s, and ‘70s Weekend, the Seafood and Music Festival, and New Jersey State BBQ Championship and Anglesea Blues Festival; National Marbles Tournament; Baby Parade; International Kite Festival; Classic Car Shows; and much more! You can view our more than 160 events and festivals at WildwoodsNJ.com/events-calendar.
In addition to the award-winning free beaches and over 160 events and festivals held each year, the world-famous Wildwoods Boardwalk is a summer “must” for visitors. This ‘2-1/2 miles of smiles’ feature three amusement piers with over 100 rides and attractions, three beachfront waterparks, arcades, carnival games, shops, and eateries. In fact, the Wildwood have more retail shops and restaurants than the Mall of America.
Affordable Family Fun
Exploring the Wildwoods this summer is full of FREE and exciting activities, whether you’re experiencing generational favorites like the Wildwoods’ Boardwalk for the very first time or discovering newfound gems on your return visit. For an even better value, follow these additional tips:
- Timing is Everything: Plan for a visit in May, June, September, or October for lower hotel-motel rates, spectacular weather, and a crowd-free experience.
- Midweek Escapes: Maximize savings with midweek stays from Sunday to Thursday. Enjoy more affordable hotel and vacation rental rates on weekday stays as opposed to weekend stays when rates are higher.
- Holiday Sales and Coupons: Keep an eye out for holiday sales from Morey’s Piers and Splash Zone Waterpark. Adventurers can save big on amusement and waterpark passes. Don’t forget the free Wildwoods Family Value Coupon Book, filled with over $300 in money-saving coupons available online at WildwoodsNJ.com under Visitor Information.
For additional information about the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732.
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