Wildwood is located on a barrier island facing the Atlantic Ocean and is part of a group of beach communities known as the “The Wildwoods.” The city was first incorporated as a New Jersey borough in 1895 before being declared a city in 1912. By the mid-1900s, the Doo-Wop era inspired a building boom that led to the construction of over 200 motels along the island. As the decades passed, Wildwood grew into one of the state's most popular summer resort destinations.
Today, Wildwood continues to draw summer tourists to its beautiful beaches, exciting amusement piers, and one-of-a-kind boardwalk. Whatever your reason for visiting Wildwood, it's important that you find the right hotel so you can make the most of your time in the city.
When to Visit Wildwood, NJ
The best time to visit Wildwood is from June to August when temperatures reach the mid-80s, making conditions perfect for enjoying the beach. On any day, you can surf, boogie board, jet ski, powerboat, kayak, or just soak up the sun and whale watch. It's also a great time to visit Wildwood's beachfront waterparks, play a beach sport, or enjoy popular summer events like Beach Blast and the Independence Day Parade. Because this is peak season, you will face huge crowds and expensive hotel rates, so book your room well in advance.
To avoid the crowds and still enjoy somewhat warm weather, visit Wildwood between March and May. Although you might not be able to enjoy much of the beach (temperatures can be chilly), you will be able to enjoy the Wildwoods Boardwalk, which is packed with stores, restaurants, and live entertainment. You'll also be in town for springtime events like the Boardwalk Kennel Club Show, Boat Fishing Tournament, and International Kite Festival. Best of all, hotel rates will be much more affordable than during the summertime.
From September to November temperatures drop from in the 70s into the 50s, making beach visits unlikely. The good news is, you won't have to worry about crowds or expensive hotel rates and there will still be plenty to do. During the day, you can go deep-sea fishing, play miniature golf, or visit a local brewery. At night, you can have some fun at one of Wildwood's many dance clubs, lounges, or sports bars.
During the winter months (December – February) your outdoor attractions are limited thanks to near-freezing temperatures. Luckily, you still have many other options. You can visit the George F. Boyer Museum or experience one of many winter events, like the Boardwalk Basketball Classic, Polar Bear Plunge, and Jaycees Christmas Parade. Plus, hotel rates will be at their lowest and crowds will be so few you'll hardly notice them.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Wildwood, NJ:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average nightly cost trends by star rating class in Wildwood, NJ. Analyze these charts to evaluate the cheapest time to stay in Wildwood during the year.
Luxury Hotel Options in Wildwood, NJ
4 Star Average Prices: $383.12
If you're looking for a luxury hotel, you'll find plenty of great ones in Wildwood. Hotel Icona Diamond Beach is located a few miles south of the city's center near the beach, convention center, and Cape May National Wildlife Refuge. It offers 108 stylish guest rooms and suites that feature full galley kitchens with refrigerators, dishwashers, stove tops, and Keurig coffee makers, along with separate living and sleeping areas, and flat screen TVs. Some premium suites also feature floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies with gorgeous Atlantic Ocean views.
Hotel amenities include a private beach with on-duty lifeguards from May to September, a large outdoor heated pool, and splash pool for children. There's also a sundeck with umbrellas and luxury furnishings for you to lounge on, a fitness center, and a marketplace.
Slightly north of Wildwood's center, lies another great luxury hotel option — The Reeds at Shelter Haven. This elegant boutique hotel and resort is situated on the bay near the beach, Wetland's Institute, and Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary. The hotel's 37 guest rooms and suites are richly appointed with oak floors, flat-screen TVs, Keurig coffee makers, cabinet refrigerators, and private balconies. If you need more space, the premium suites also feature separate living, sleeping, and dining areas, as well as a full chef's kitchen.
Additional hotel features include two unique restaurants, electronic motorcar escort to the beach, and a roof garden sun deck with two hot tubs and a plunge pool. If you enjoy playing golf, you can take advantage of pass-through membership to the nearby Stone Harbor Golf Club, or if you're a yoga-lover, enjoy seasonal yoga by the bay.
Affordable Hotel Options in Wildwood, NJ
3 Star Average Prices: $193.84
There are many affordable hotel options in Wildwood. Quebec Motel is located in the heart of the city, steps away from the beach, amusement piers, and waterparks. It has 40 comfortable rooms, which feature 32-inch LED TVs, apartment-size refrigerators, and microwaves. The larger suites also feature separate living and sleeping areas, as well as an additional 19-inch TV in the bedroom.
Hotel amenities include a heated pool, kiddie pool, and barbecue grills. Although you won't find a restaurant inside the hotel, you can visit the Pink Cadillac Diner next door and receive a discount on food, drinks, and desserts between May and October.
For another affordable hotel option in the center of Wildwood, consider Lollipop Motel. This colorful condominium hotel is a historic “Doo Wop” landmark and is conveniently located near the beach, amusement piers, and Gateway 26 Casino. You'll enjoy a clean and spacious room with a mini-fridge, microwave, and sleep sofa for convenience. The larger suites have separate living and sleeping areas, and are perfect if you're traveling with a large family.
Outside of your room, the hotel offers a heated pool, sun deck, and patio for unlimited summer fun.
