City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Wildwood, New Jersey
Located north of Cape May and south of Atlantic City, the resort city of Wildwood sits on a barrier island between Richardson Sound on the west and the Atlantic Ocean on the east. Approximately five miles of beachfront property make it a prime destination for boaters, beach-goers and fun seekers.
Sometimes called the “Wildwoods,” Wildwood is part of a section of the Jersey shore that includes Wildwood Crest and North Wildwood. The location is perfect for day trips from Cape May, family vacations or as a stop-over for those traveling the ICW. Enjoy fishing charters, dolphin-watching tours and pirate cruises from the shores of Wildwood.
Wildwood Boardwalk
Photo: Morey's Piers and Water Parks (Facebook)
On site since the 1890s, the Wildwood Boardwalk offers a variety of shopping, dining, water parks and other attractions along a two-mile stretch. Attractions along the boardwalk include the Wildwoods Beach Ball sign, surf shops, ice cream stands, oceanfront hotels, pizza parlors and more. Check out the casino and arcade games at Gateway 26 in North Wildwood. The Sightseer Tram takes visitors up and down the boardwalk. A one-way ride is about $4 a person and takes approximately 30 minutes to get from one end to the other. We think it’s a fun way to see the area and take a break from the sand and sun.
Located along the boardwalk, Morey’s Piers has three locations with go-karts, Ferris wheels, kiddie boats, roller coasters, arcades, water parks and other carnival games and rides. They include Surfside Amusement Pier, Mariner’s Amusement Pier and Adventure Amusement Pier.
Seaport Aquarium
Photo: Tripadvisor
While you’re at the boardwalk, or need a place to visit from a private boat lift for rent, stop in at the Seaport Aquarium. One of Wildwood’s best attractions, you’ll find reptiles, fish, monkeys, eels, alligators and a touch pool.
Doo Wop Experience Museum
Photo: Wikimedia
The Doo Wop Experience Museum, in Fox Park near the Wildwoods Convention Center, is a tribute to Wildwood's retro ‘50s and ‘60s heyday. It has the largest collection of mid-century commercial (apparently known as "Doo Wop) architecture in the U.S. Yes, doo-wop does refer to a vocal style of harmonies and rhythm. In this context, however, it's about the space-age decor and style of the 1950s and 1960s (Think: The Jetsons, the Las Vegas sign and angular rooflines, long sweeping angles, starburst designs and plastic palm trees). It also has elements of tiki, Polynesian and South Pacific design. You’ll find a wide array of groovy artifacts like neon signs, vintage lamps, hotel furniture and other pop culture memorabilia of the music and architecture that made Wildwood famous.
Hereford Inlet Lighthouse
Photo: Wikimedia
Built in 1874, the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse is a wonderful site to visit from a private boat slip rental. It’s 47.5 feet tall and an active navigational aid. Located at the north end of the beach at Hereford Inlet, it’s open to the public. Relax on the grounds and stroll through the Victorian-style park and gardens. There’s also a butterfly garden and a gift shop.
Whether you’re staying at a private boat dock for rent or anchored at a local marina, we hope you’ve discovered some new places to visit in Wildwood. Let us know if we missed anything.
