Looking for a classic Jersey Shore vacation with beautiful beaches and boardwalk fun? Head to North Wildwood, New Jersey! Located at the northern end of the Wildwoods, this charming beach town offers family-friendly activities, wide sandy beaches, nightlife, and old-fashioned coastal charm. Whether you’re relaxing by the ocean or enjoying boardwalk thrills, North Wildwood delivers summer fun for all ages.
North Wildwood, NJ Highlights:
- For Couples: Stroll along the seawall at sunrise or sunset – Enjoy ocean breezes, coastal views, and romantic walks from 2nd to 15th Avenue.
- For Families: Spend the day at Morey’s Piers & Water Parks – Just steps away, enjoy rides, water slides, and classic boardwalk entertainment.
- For Adventurous Travelers: Try parasailing or jet skiing – Local outfitters offer thrilling water sports along the beach and bay.
- For Beach Lovers: Relax on North Wildwood’s free beaches – Wide, clean, and family-friendly with no beach tags required.
- For Nightlife: Listen to live music at Irish pubs and beach bars – Visit Anglesea and Olde New Jersey Ave for drinks and dancing.
Best Time to Visit North Wildwood, NJ
The best time to visit North Wildwood is during the summer months (June through August) when the beaches, boardwalk, and attractions are in full swing. Early fall (September) offers fewer crowds and mild weather, while spring weekends begin to buzz with events and early sun-seekers.
How to Get to North Wildwood, NJ
- If you are traveling by car: Take the Garden State Parkway south to Exit 6. North Wildwood is about 1.5 hours from Philadelphia and 2.5 hours from NYC.
- By Bus: NJ Transit buses provide direct service from Philadelphia and Atlantic City to Wildwood Bus Terminal.
- By Plane: The closest airport is Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), about a 50-minute drive away.
Where to Stay in North Wildwood, NJ
- Surf Song Beach Resort – Spacious condos just a block from the beach and boardwalk, perfect for families.
- Horizon Motor Inn – Clean, comfortable, and centrally located with a pool and friendly service.
- Acropolis Oceanfront Resort – Oceanview rooms and easy beach access near the start of the boardwalk.
Best Things to Do in North Wildwood, NJ
1. Step Into Seaside History at Hereford Inlet Lighthouse
Hereford Inlet Lighthouse is located at the northern end of Five Mile Beach in Cape May County New Jersey. The historic lighthouse was completed in 1874 and boasts an impressive 50-foot tower and a light which can be seen for 13 nautical miles. Today the lighthouse is still used as a navigational aid, maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard. The interior is used as a small but interesting museum, displaying antiques and lighthouse memorabilia. The gardens are also beautifully maintained and visitors are welcome free of charge. The lighthouse is open to the public 7 days a week during the summer – you can check their website for off-season opening times.
Hereford Inlet Lighthouse, 111 N. Central Avenue, North Wildwood, NJ 08260, Phone: 609-600-1561
2. Paddle Into Adventure with SUP Guy
The tranquil waterways and beaches surrounding North Wildwood are ideal for all kinds of padding. SUP Guy is dedicated to getting everyone with an interest in paddling out on the water for an exciting Stand up Paddling, kayaking or surfing experience. Not only can you rent everything you need from the outfitter, but they will even deliver your boards or kayak to your door for all daily or weekly rentals. In addition to boards you can rent life jackets (required). SUP is suitable for most reasonably fit adventurers – you need to be able to swim and have the necessary balance to stand un-aided on your board. Most children from age 10 upwards will find it easy to learn.
SUP Guy, North Wildwood, NJ 08260, Phone: 609-435-4129
3. Explore Coastal Wonders with EcoVentures
EcoVentures exist to ensure you and your family has a fun vacation while learning all about the marvels of nature which surround you. The company offers a host of fun activities for both adults and children including learning how to surf, SUP, kayak or snorkel. Children can have hours of outdoor fun at one of their Summer Day Camp Programs which include skim boarding and body-boarding lessons and dolphin spotting. Snorkeling lessons (first in a pool and then in a shallow area of the ocean), boogie-boarding and shell-hunting are also on offer. Lunch is included and parents can relax on the beach. Family eco-adventures include guided kayak excursions and wildlife observation.
EcoVentures, 1901 New Jersey Ave, North Wildwood, NJ 08260, Phone: 609-742-5656
Where to Eat:
4. Savor a Classic Slice at Sam’s Pizza Palace
Italian immigrant Sam Spera started a pizza craze in Wildwood when he and his family started serving up slices of “pie” for 15c a slice back in the day (1957). Today Sam’s Pizza Palace is just as popular as it was back then and locals and visitors look forward to enjoying a wonderful pizza right on the boardwalk. The pizzas are large and tasty and you can customize your pie by choosing from a list of topping ingredients. If you are vacationing in North Wildwood you are welcome to order your pizzas and sandwiches to take away and enjoy at home.
Sam’s Pizza Palace, 2600 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ 08260, Phone: 609-522-6017
5. If You Crave Fun Eats and Big Flavor, Head to Maui’s Dog House
Maui’s Doghouse opened in 1999 and has been going from strength to strength since then. The restaurant has featured on two TV shows – Food Networks’ Sunny’s Summer Eats and Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, both of which ensured that they are firmly established on the North Wildwood culinary map. As the name indicates, the restaurant makes great dogs – not just your regular hotdog, but premium hotdogs enhanced with your choice of 29 innovative home-made toppings. They also make their delicious Black Angus burger patties by hand and even bread their own chicken and shrimp. Everything is home-made from scratch and you can taste the difference.
Maui’s Dog House, 8th & New Jersey Avenues, North Wildwood, NJ 08260, Phone: 609-846-0444
If you are interested in local events:
- Anglesea Blues Festival (July) – Live music and BBQ near the seawall and craft vendors along Olde New Jersey Ave.
- Irish Fall Festival (September) – Four days of music, food, parades, and Irish pride in North Wildwood.
- Fourth of July Fireworks – Spectacular display over the ocean, visible from the entire beach and boardwalk.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of North Wildwood, NJ:
- Stone Harbor (15 min) – Quaint downtown, boutique shopping, and the Wetlands Institute nature center.
- Wildwood Crest (10 min) – Quieter beaches, bike paths, and oceanfront parks perfect for a relaxing day.
- Cape May (25 min) – Explore Victorian architecture, wineries, lighthouse climbs, and sunset dolphin cruises.
- Sunset Lake (15 min) – Kayak or paddleboard in calm waters with views of coastal birds and boats.
- Historic Cold Spring Village (20 min) – Step back in time with costumed interpreters and preserved 1800s buildings.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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Where is North Wildwood located?
- Located on the stunning Five Mile Beach in Cape May County, North Wildwood is a prime summer destination for vacationers.
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What is the beach like at North Wildwood?
- The beaches and the gentle surf are perfect for families, with plenty of activities to keep everyone happy.
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What water sports are available at North Wildwood?
- The beaches offer a wonderful selection of water sports, with outfitters providing lessons and rentals for surfboards, SUP, kayaks, and more.
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What activities are available for children in North Wildwood?
- Children can enjoy fun activities at an EcoVentures Day Camp, while parents soak up the sun.
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What can you find at the North Wildwood boardwalk?
- The lively boardwalk features fun rides for kids and exciting activities for the whole family.
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What outdoor activities are available in North Wildwood?
- The area offers excellent opportunities for saltwater fishing, dolphin spotting, snorkeling, and more.
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