Monday, April 21, 2025

The Wildwoods, NJ's Beautiful FREE Beaches Nominated for Best Beach in New Jersey in USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Travel Awards 2025


PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOODS - USA Today announced that the Wildwoods' beautiful FREE beaches are in the running for the second consecutive year for Best Beach in New Jersey in USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Travel Awards Contest 2025.

The Wildwoods' beaches won the Best Beach in NJ award in 2024 and hope to repeat by placing number one on the USA Today ranking again this year.

Fans and supporters are encouraged to vote online for the Wildwoods' beaches starting Monday, April 21 at noon. Supporters can vote once a day, every day, until the voting period ends on Monday, May 19 at 11:59 am.

The Wildwoods' sparkling, clean beaches, stretching for five miles across the shores of North Wildwood, Wildwood and Wildwood Crest, are unlike most seashore resort beaches in that they are so spacious, offering plenty of room to spread out, and unlike most New Jersey beach destinations, the Wildwoods beaches are completely FREE with no beach tags required.

Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement & Development Authority announces new 2025 tourism campaign


Coming off a record-breaking 2024 summer tourism season, the Wildwoods launch new "Welcome to the Wildwoods" tourism campaign...

PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOODS - The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement & Development Authority (GWTIDA) recently launched its new 2025 tourism ad campaign, "Welcome to the Wildwoods!"

The campaign invites visitors to enjoy everything they could ever want in a safe, fun vacation experience - all on one five-mile island.

"The campaign highlights the Wildwoods' distinctive charm as a beach destination that caters to every family member. It showcases the island's versatility as a vacation spot where you can find everything you could ever want for your vacation experience, all on one five-mile island," said Ben Rose, Director of Marketing and Public Relations for GWTIDA.

The campaign features two all-new commercials showing video highlights of everything there is to do in the Wildwoods, from relaxing on the Wildwoods' spacious, clean and FREE white-sandy beaches, to exploring the 38-block, world famous boardwalk with three action-packed amusement piers featuring over 100 rides and attractions, three beachfront water parks, great shopping, fun carnival games and flashing arcades, plus unique dining and nightlife experiences, watersports, fishing, boating and more.

GO BIRDS!! ~ Morey's Piers announces special day of fun benefiting Eagles Autism Foundation


PRESS RELEASE

WILDWOOD, NJ - Morey's Piers, a renowned amusement destination nestled in the heart of Wildwood, New Jersey, is thrilled to announce a special fundraising event benefiting the Eagles Autism Foundation on Friday, June 13, 2025.

From ticket sales and special experiences, Eagles Player Bartender and Game Operators, to a specialized Sunny Seagull Plush, a portion of proceeds will support the Eagles Autism Foundation's mission to raise funds for innovative autism research and care programs.

"We're thrilled to partner with the Eagles Autism Foundation for a day that combines family fun, community engagement and a shared commitment to making a meaningful impact," said Kyle Morey, Director of Marketing for Morey's Piers. "We're excited to welcome everyone on June 13, and believe it will be an experience to remember."

Among the programming will be a Player Bartender at PigDog Beach BarBQ, a Player Game Operator serving up a limited edition Morey's Piers x Eagles Autism Foundation Sunny Seagulls, appearances by Swoop and Eagles Cheerleaders, and more!

Friday, April 4, 2025

Barefoot Country Music Fest drops daily lineup schedule


Limited Super VIP Passes remain for the 5-Year-Celebration...

PRESS RELEASE

WILDWOOD, NJ - Barefoot Country Music Fest (BCMF) has released the daily schedule for its five-year anniversary, giving fans a first look at when their favorite artists will take the stage.

Set for June 19-22, 2025, BCMF will bring an all-star lineup to the beaches of Wildwood, NJ, with performances from Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson, Jelly Roll, Rascal Flatts, Megan Moroney, Jordan Davis, Warren Zeiders, Chris Janson, Boyz II Men and more!

The Daily Schedule is as Follows (also see graphic below):

Thursday, April 3, 2025

Wildwoods Welcome Center to host Opening Weekend festivities ~ Friday, April 4th & Saturday, April 5th


The weather is warming, the days are getting longer and, every week, more and more seasonal businesses in the Wildwoods are reopening their doors.

A new season is in bloom, and the Wildwoods Welcome Center is set to mark the occasion with its own Opening Weekend celebration this Friday, April 4 and Saturday, April 5. 

"This is always an exciting time of year, as we welcome back visitors to the island and prepare for the summer season ahead," said Bob Sahasaylo, Executive Director of the Greater Wildwood Hotel/Motel Association (GWHMA), which operates the information center at 1 NJ-47, just over the George Redding Bridge.

"The annual opening of the Wildwoods Welcome Center is an opportunity to get reacquainted with our guests and have some fun while sharing info and celebrating the things we love most about our island."

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

The Wildwoods are a Dog Owner's Dream Destination


PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOODS – As visitors get ready for another year of making memories at the Jersey Shore, pet-owners know that no trip is complete without bringing their furry friends along.Whether it’s a day at the beach, or a week-long vacation, the Wildwoods welcome all four-legged friends with a bounty of dog beaches, dog parks, and dozens of businesses and accommodations that are pet friendly. 

Dog-Friendly Beach and Recreational Attractions 

From May through October, four-legged friends have a special, designated beach area to call their own at Glenwood Avenue in Wildwood. Just to be safe, all dogs must be licensed, must always be leashed, except when inside the enclosed beach dog park, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. North Wildwood beaches allow dogs during the summer season, anytime when lifeguards are off duty (lifeguard hours 9:30 am - 5:30 pm). 

The Wildwoods Dog Beach has been named one of the Top 10 ‘Best Dog Friendly Beaches in the US’ in the 10Best Readers’ Choice travel award contest sponsored by USA TODAY. USA TODAY 10Best teamed up with BringFido.com to nominate the 20 most dog-friendly beaches in the nation. The Wildwoods’ Dog Beach received the second highest number of votes, ranking it #2 overall in the nation. 

Tails wag as dogs make their way across the Boardwalk and onto the sand as they approach the 25-foot-tall red Fire Hydrant Sculpture at the beach Dog Park – right at the entrance to the Dog Beach. The Dog Park is completely fenced in, so there is enough room for dogs to run, play, and stretch their legs. It is separated into two sections – one for large breed dogs and the other for small breed dogs. As with the Dog Beach, all dogs entering the Dog Park must be licensed, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. 

Picture your four-legged pal dashing on the beach with ears flapping in the ocean breeze, and the pure joy radiating from their playful antics. With designated dog-friendly beaches and a commitment to cleanliness, The Wildwoods offer endless fun under the sun, where splashing, digging, and fetching become the order of the day. The block-and-a-half-long, 190-yard-wide area is open from 6 a.m. until dusk, and this section of the beach is well equipped with pet amenities including drinking water stations, doggie play stations, shade structures, and signs reminding doggy owners to clean up after their loved ones with free plastic bags provided. 

Additional dog-friendly recreational attractions throughout the Wildwoods include Sunset Lake, the Sea Wall in North Wildwood, and the Wildwoods Bike Path. 

Dog-Friendly Businesses 

Several Wildwoods establishments welcome four-legged patrons to dine outdoors with their families. Morey’s Mariner’s Pier is home to the PigDog Beach Bar, a laidback atmosphere accessible via Raging Waters Water Park, the beach, and the Boardwalk. Both family and dog-friendly, this new breed of beach bar and outdoor restaurant serves tasty barbecue classics, cocktails and a mix of domestic options and warm weather chilled imports. For more information, visit www.moreyspiers.com/food/pigdog

MudHen Brewing Company is another Wildwoods eatery accommodating four-legged travelers. Big or small, short or tall, all dogs are welcome to dine, while on a leash of course, with their owners in its spacious outdoor dining area. 

In addition to PigDog Beach Bar and MudHen Brewing Company, a number of other Wildwoods restaurants and eateries allow dogs to dine outdoors with their owners. Please call ahead to the establishments to inquire about their dog policy before dining. 

Dog-Friendly Activities and Events 

The Wildwoods love dogs, and we’ve picked four summertime national dog holidays to celebrate here with your furry friend: 

National Pet Week – May 4-10, 2025 
Pet Appreciation Week – June 1-8, 2025 
All-American Pet Photo Day – July 11, 2025 
National Dog Day – August 26, 2025 
National Dog Week – September 24-30, 2025 

If you’re someone who loves the open sea and everything it has to offer – fishing, crabbing, whale, and dolphin watching – but you don’t want to leave your best friend behind on dry land, you need not worry. Several Wildwoods sightseeing charter boats and fishing/crabbing boats allow you to bring your dog on board. Please remember to outfit your pet with an appropriate life jacket to keep them safe during your day at sea. 

Your pup can show their pride too when the July 4th Patriotic Pooch Parade joins in the march of the Independence Day Parade in North Wildwood. Dogs of all shapes and sizes parade along the streets of North Wildwood dressed in patriotic garb alongside decorated bicycles. Prizes are awarded for the best-dressed pooches. 

Your dog can enjoy a walk on the beach followed by a paddle in the pools of Raging Waters Water Park at Morey’s Piers during the Morey’s PigDog PuppaPalooza annual event in September. The day starts with a Doggie Dash 1-mile or 5k beach walk/run with your favorite canine – followed by a day frolicking at Raging Waters waterpark on Mariner’s Pier. Throughout the day, the famously dog-friendly PigDog Beach Bar will host “Yappy Hour” specials for you and your “fur”iends. Also, in attendance at PigDog will be Beacon Animal Shelter with items to auction and pups to adopt. 

Visit www.MoreysPiers.com/events for more information. 

Dog-Friendly Accommodations 

When you’re on vacation, it’s often hard to find accommodations to suit the entire family. In the Wildwoods however, there are numerous places to stay with your pet pals. Please call to confirm that the hotel/motel of interest welcomes dogs. 

Also visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com/plan-a-vacation/places-to-stay and select the ‘pet-friendly’ option in the amenities tab to see all the pet-friendly places to stay. 

In addition, an online hotel reservation system on the Wildwoods official tourism website, WildwoodsNJ.com, allows visitors to conveniently book accommodations at a range of Wildwoods hotels and motels via the Book Your Stay webpage. Just click on the ‘Pet-Friendly’ button on the left tab to see a list of pet-friendly hotels and vacation rentals.

City of Wildwood advises: Safety measures are in full effect for the 2025 season


PRESS RELEASE

WILDWOOD As the 2025 tourist season approaches, the City of Wildwood is proactively implementing enhanced safety measures to ensure a welcoming, family-friendly environment for all visitors. 

Under the banner of "Every Night is a Family Night," Wildwood aims to balance safety and enjoyment along its iconic Boardwalk.

Wildwood's 10 pm curfew for minors is being strictly enforced, with potential arrests for non-compliance by both minors and their parents or guardians. This measure is designed to protect the Boardwalk from unruly teen crowds and provide a secure, enjoyable atmosphere for all residents and tourists.

This message is clear: "Minors must be with legal guardians after 10 pm"

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

The Wildwoods Convention Center hosts War at the Jersey Shore National Youth Wrestling Tournament ~ April 17-19


PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOODS - The Atlantic Coast Wrestling Association will host the annual War at the Jersey Shore National Youth Wrestling Tournament at the Wildwoods Convention Center from Thursday, April 17 to Saturday, April 19, 2025.

The event features National Folkstyle and Freestyle Wrestling Championships with more than 2,000 wrestlers representing over 20 states.

The "War" features a youth tournament with over 50 weight classes spread across 5 age divisions, and a High School Division with 15 weight classes. A girls' division, K-12, will also be featured along with an open division. 

Weigh-ins will be on Thursday and the tournament will be held on Friday and Saturday.

Times for the competitions are as follows:

Monday, March 24, 2025

The Wildwoods Convention Center hosts cheerleading competitions in April and May


PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOODS - The Wildwoods Convention Center will host an amazing lineup of athletic and talented cheerleaders from around the country for cheer championships during the months of April and May.

For each event, teams will compete on a spring floor and perform incredible stunts in hopes of winning the judges' votes. Experience high-energy performances choreographed to music and sound effects as talented cheer teams compete for top prizes.

Friday, March 21, 2025

The Wildwoods announce partial lineup for "Thunder Over the Waves" Airshow ~ September 5th & 6th


PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOODS - The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement & Development Authority (GWTIDA) and David Schultz Airshows proudly announce the exciting lineup for the "Thunder Over the Waves" Airshow to be held on September 5 (practice day) and September 6 (main event) on the beaches of Wildwood, NJ.

The four-hour airshow is expected to draw over 400,000 spectators, as visitors travel to see 11 headlining acts including military flyovers by the NJ Air National Guard, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and Dover Air Force Base, plus performances by the Fighter Jets Inc. MIG-17PF Jet Team, ACEMAKER Solo Aerobatic Demos in the T-33 Shooting Star, Jerry Conley in the DH-115 Vampire Jet among many other jets and propeller aircraft executing incredible aerobatic performances. 

The U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team will also be a part of the event along with the U.S. Coast Guard.

GWTIDA recognizes the airshow's ability to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors while keeping this iconic event in southern New Jersey. Historically, air shows in southern New Jersey have drawn spectators in the hundreds of thousands and had an economic impact in the tens of millions, providing a substantial tourism boost to its host city and the greater South Jersey shore region. 

Wildwoods Convention Center welcomes Business at the Beach Expo ~ Tuesday, April 15th


PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOODS - Let's get down to business!

The Cape May County Chamber of Commerce's annual Business at the Beach Expo is scheduled to take place Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at the Wildwoods Convention Center from 4 pm to 7 pm.

Register at no charge to attend the Expo keynote session scheduled for 3 pm, then head to the expo floor for networking. This year's keynote speaker is Anita Zinsmeister, President of Dale Carnegie Training of Central and Southern NJ, presenting "Storytelling For Impact: Elevate Your Leadership Presence."

As the premier business networking event in Cape May County, the expo showcases businesses in the marketplace and allows them to meet with potential customers and established clients. Attendees are welcome to explore the free expo to shop for all their business needs, make important contacts and attend the informative keynote session.  

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

City of North Wildwood files complaint against Borough of Wildwood Crest to safeguard 50-year federal shore protection project


PRESS RELEASE

NORTH WILDWOOD - The City of North Wildwood has filed a Verified Complaint against the Borough of Wildwood Crest with the Superior Court of New Jersey - Chancery Division. 

In the filed complaint, North Wildwood is seeking declaratory and injunctive relief to protect the dynamic coastal environment of the Wildwoods Island, a mission rooted in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Hereford Inlet to Cape May Inlet Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project.

On March 18, 2025, the City of North Wildwood participated in a virtual hearing in front of Judge M. Susan Shepard. Representatives from Wildwood Crest, along with Wildwood, Lower Township and the NJDEP also participated. During the hearing, the court issued temporary restraints enjoining Wildwood Crest from withdrawing pending further briefing to be submitted by the parties to the court and a court hearing to be conducted at a later date.

In June 2024, the NJDOT constructed a dredge project to place 750,000 cubic yards of sand onto the city's inlet and front beaches. This project was intended to be an interim solution to address shore protection in the city until the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the NJDEP are able to complete a project to address long-term shore protection across the entire 5-mile island. 

Friday, March 14, 2025

Cape May County Prosecutor's Office and Wildwood Police Department respond to potential "Pop-up" party threat


PRESS RELEASE

CAPE MAY COUNTY, NJ - Cape May County Prosecutor Jeffrey Sutherland and Wildwood Police Chief Joseph Murphy today issued a joint statement regarding an ongoing investigation into a social media post promoting a potential "Pop-up" party, dubbed "Project X," in Wildwood during the upcoming season. 

The investigation was launched following concerns raised by the promotion of the event, which has not been authorized or sanctioned by local authorities. In their statement, Prosecutor Sutherland and Chief Murphy made clear their commitment to preventing any illegal, unsanctioned gatherings that may compromise public safety and disrupt the peace of the Wildwood community.

"We are fully aware of the risks that these unsanctioned 'Pop-up' parties pose to the public safety, including crowd control issues, the potential for violence and the strain they place on our law enforcement resources," said Prosecutor Sutherland. "We are actively working to identify the individuals behind the promotion of this event and will pursue every legal avenue to prevent it from taking place.

"We will not tolerate any illegal gatherings that disrupt the safety and well-being of the residents of Cape May County, visitors and law enforcement personnel."

Thursday, March 13, 2025

Wildwood Police Chief Joseph Murphy achieves prestigious accreditation


PRESS RELEASE

WILDWOOD  – The City of Wildwood proudly announces that Chief Joseph M. Murphy has been officially recognized as a New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP) Accredited Chief Executive - Chief of Police with an advanced designation. This prestigious accreditation reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence, leadership, and the highest professional standards in law enforcement.

To earn this designation, Chief Murphy met rigorous leadership and training benchmarks while demonstrating exceptional executive service, notably through his role on the NJ FBI National Academy Associates board.

Over the past year, Chief Joseph Murphy has played a pivotal role in strengthening public safety in Wildwood through decisive leadership and proactive measures. Working alongside city commissioners, he has enacted stricter curfews and a backpack ban, ensuring a safer environment for residents and visitors.

Additionally, he has worked with city commissioners to see security enhancements on the historic Wildwood Boardwalk, including the installation of bollards at key access points to prevent unauthorized vehicle entry, upgraded surveillance cameras, and improved lighting to enhance visibility and deter crime. These initiatives demonstrate a steadfast commitment to making Wildwood a more secure and welcoming community.

Wednesday, March 12, 2025

The Wildwoods Convention Center hosts New Jersey's leading RV dealers for the New Jersey Spring RV Show - Friday, April 4 through Sunday, April 6


PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOODS - Rev up your excitement because the New Jersey Spring RV Show is rolling into the Wildwoods Convention Center this April!

Get ready to explore your next adventure on wheels on Friday, April 4 through Sunday, April 6, 2025.

Tour the industry's best RVs, support local vendors and learn tips and tricks for the upcoming camping season. With incredible markdown pricing and a fun, family-friendly atmosphere, this is the ultimate event to gear up for your next adventure.

Whether you're looking for a new camping adventure or want to upgrade to a new rig, this event is for you. The Wildwood RV Show will feature both new and used recreational vehicles, perfect for every style and budget to explore. Find an incredible selection of RVs, from top-selling brands in the industry from New Jersey's biggest and best recreational vehicle dealers.