Summer 2025's Top New Jersey Beach Unveiled: Surprisingly Near NYC Than Anticipated
Sizzling Summer Escapes: A Jersey Shore Favorite Tops Our List
Ah, the sweltering NYC summer heat has us craving the seaside. And with the Jersey Shore season now upon us, one beach town is making waves on our must-visit list!
Pack your bags, we're headed Down the Shore! The talk of the town is the Jersey Shore, those charming beach towns, and of course, the pristine beaches.
But what stands out this year? USA Today has named a winner, and it's none other than The Wildwoods! Known for its extensive stretches of sand (500 yards wide at some points), this gem takes the crown.
Why all the fuss, you ask? Well, The Wildwoods isn't just spacious; it's free for all to enjoy! The perfect backdrop for summer activities like volleyball, surfing, boogie boarding, or simply frolicking in the waves.
To top it off, there's even a beach taxi service that ferries visitors from the boardwalk to the shore—talk about convenience!
No beach day is complete without some post-fun entertainment. And The Wildwoods certainly doesn't disappoint. The award-winning beach piggybacks onto a world-renowned 38-block boardwalk, brimming with amusement rides, water parks, arcades, shops, and a cornucopia of dining options catering to diverse tastes.
In case you're not yet convinced, here's the cherry on top. The Wildwoods play host to over 160 events each year, including free fireworks, music, and festivals—events you can even time your trip around!
Zooming In: Getting to The Wildwoods from NYC
By Car:
- Distance: The drive from New York City to The Wildwoods in New Jersey is approximately 160 miles (257 km).
- Travel Time: The journey typically takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
By Public Transportation:
Public transportation options can be a bit limiting and often require a combination of modes. Here's a suggested route:
- Bus: Board a bus from New York City's Port Authority Bus Terminal, heading to Atlantic City, NJ. Options include Greyhound or Academy Bus.
- Transfer at Atlantic City: From Atlantic City, hop on a local bus or a taxi for the remaining leg to The Wildwoods. Unfortunately, a direct public transport route might not be available frequently. A taxi or ride-sharing service may be necessary for the final stretch.
Alternatives:
If driving or public transportation isn't your style, think about:
- Car Services or Taxis: Book a car service or taxi for a comfortable, albeit more expensive, direct trip.
- Ride-Sharing: Utilize ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft for a worry-free, door-to-door journey.
Public transport options aren't as frequent or direct as driving, so be sure to plan ahead and check schedules in advance.
Jersey Shore Charm: More Beach Towns to Explore
Looking for more seaside adventures beyond The Wildwoods? Check out these 10 delightful beach towns along the Jersey Shore to add to your summer itinerary:
- The Wildwoods
- Ocean City
- Atlantic City
- Cape May
- Sea Isle City
- Long Beach Island
- Asbury Park
- Avalon
- Brigantine Beach
- Avon-by-the-Sea
Hop over to the USA Today report to learn more about these coastal gems! Access the USA Today report.
- Amidst the music and festival atmosphere in The Wildwoods, one can also find tranquility at home as many vacation rentals in the area offer a comfy retreat for the whole family.
- A summer escape could further involve exploring other picturesque towns along the Jersey Shore, such as Ocean City known for its family-friendly beaches and charming boardwalk, or Sea Isle City boasting a lively nightlife scene alongside its pristine shores.
- With The Wildwoods hosting over 160 annual events, a traveler could easily align their visit with a specific festival, be it a food festival, a music event, or even a gardening exhibition - truly making this escape an immersive experience in the lifestyle and culture of the Jersey Shore.
