Flights to anywhere right now are crazy, so why not keep it local and head down to the Wildwoods for an awesome family day trip? There are plenty of fun activities that would be perfect for a last-minute summer vacation, too.
The beaches in the Wildwoods are definitely a big draw, and since they are free with no beach badges required, they are the perfect way to spend a summer day. Families love to unpack their beach blanket and umbrella anywhere along the 5 miles of shoreline: in the City of Wildwood, from E. 26 St. to E. Cresse Avenue; or Wildwood Crest, from East Cresse to E. Newark avenues. Even better is the Wildwood Dog Beach, between Glenwood and Maple avenues, where your family’s furry friend can tag along.
When you’re ready for a break from the sand and surf, don’t forget about Morey’s Piers, the Boardwalk or the Splash Zone Waterpark when you need time to cool off.
Grab the kids and hop on a bike for a leisurely 12-mile round-trip route starting at the southern end of the island along the Dunes Bike Path in Wildwood Crest. Travel along the path up onto the Wildwoods’ 2.5-mile boardwalk and through North Wildwood’s Mulberry Bike Path to the North Wildwood Sea Wall. You can also ride your bike along the downtown, with special “bikes only” lanes available around the entire island. Most bike rental shops open up at 6 am.
Keep your eyes peeled as you walk around for wild birds, sea birds and marine life, or plan a boat trip where you can fish for hours or sightsee for bottle-nosed dolphins and whales. Crabbing is also popular along the marshlands and waterways on the west side of the island.
All of these activities are sure to make you hungry! Instead of visiting a typical chain restaurant, why not try a local favorite? The Beach Creek Oyster Bar & Grille, George’s Place, The Boathouse, The Dock, Santorini’s, The Surfing Pig, The Swine Bar, Urie’s Waterfront Restaurant, The Waterfront and The Wharf are a few local favorites with waterfront outdoor dining overlooking the bay or the inland waterway. Many establishments offer special menus, signature drinks and live music.
Speaking of drinks, if cold brews, craft beer and growlers are your thing, MudHen Brewing Company is the ideal location to sip craft artisan brews only found on the island. If you are interested in the distilling process, hop over to the Lazy Eye Distillery to try a regionally produced vodka, gin or rum that you won’t find anywhere other than the Jersey Shore. Wineries are located just minutes away as well.
Since you’re on vacation it’s fine to eat multiple desserts in one day, so don’t forget about sweet treats to cap off the night (or really, during any time of the day). The Wildwoods are known for creamy milkshakes and the Lime Rickey. Pop into any of the candy stores (like Douglass Candies), homemade fudge shops (like Laura’s Fudge) or bakeries (like Britton’s Gourmet Bakery) that line the boardwalk and surrounding areas.
Before you leave the area, try to wait for sunset on the beach. It’s the perfect way to end a beautiful summer day!
For more information about the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732.