From the blog

How to Enjoy the Wildwoods Off Season

Sunrise over the ocean captured on a beach in North Wildwood NJ

While you may believe there isn’t much to do in our beach town when summer comes to a close, the Wildwoods off season offers plenty of fun! Some of our restaurants are still serving delicious food, beaches are open for sitting out in the sand and much more. The typical busy crowds are also gone, so what are you waiting for? Get ready for some fun this off-season in Wildwoods!

Off-Season Dining

There are plenty of opportunities to experience the Jersey Shore’s cuisine all year round! The Surfing Pig is right next to Wildwood Beach and serves delicious barbecue with a terrific shore view. Not only do they serve barbecue during the off-season, but they also offer 100% fresh seafood and even breakfast.

Wildwood Crest Biking

The typically busy roads and trails of Wildwood Crest remain open during the off-season! You can leisurely ride through areas like the Wildwoods Boardwalk and even more scenic places like Cape May National Wildlife Refuge. Take a well-deserved break at the refuge and take in the beautiful flora and fauna sights!

A Trip to the Winery

Unwind during the Wildwoods off-season with a stop at one of the incredible wineries in the area! Hawk Haven Vineyard and Winery is a fifteen-minute drive from the Wildwood Beach shore and home to delicious dry wines and others available for a flight or carafe at their wine bar.

An Off-Season Beach Day

Summer crowds have vanished, and the beaches of Wildwood Crest are almost barren throughout the off-season. But even while the weather is colder, plenty of fun awaits those visiting! The North Wildwood Sea Wall has a paved trail along the shore to explore, with a great view of the sea and sand. Once at the trail’s end, you can relax at the pavilion surrounded by the shore’s beauty.

Ferry Day Trips

The Cape May Lewes Ferry is open all year round! When visiting Wildwoods in the off-season, the Victorian charm of Cape May is five minutes away and you can hop on the ferry to enjoy a unique adventure to Lewes and Rehoboth, Delaware. The ferry itself is home to Lewes Coffee Company, a terrific spot for coffee and breakfast to start the day. The Lewes Terminal and Cape May Terminal both host delicious restaurants for lunch and dinner.

Fall Festivals & Second-Season Fun
Autumn brings back the Wildwoods with a twist—think local fall festivals, themed weekends, classic car shows, and live music. Check out events like the ’50s, ’60s & ’70s Weekend or holiday festivities that keep the spirit alive long after summer fades.

Take a Doo-Wop Architecture Stroll
With fewer distractions, you can appreciate Wildwoods’ unique retro vibe. Take a self-guided walking tour through the historic motel district with its neon signs and mid-century charm.

A Quiet Return to the Boardwalk
Yes, the summer rides may be paused, but the Boardwalk itself is still open—and it’s never been more peaceful. Take a walk, snap a few photos, and enjoy a soft breeze off the ocean. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs and take in the sights, minus the crowds.

Stay at Ala Kai Motel

Planning a trip to Wildwood? Consider a stay at Ala Kai Motel! Come hang out at the pool, catch a rooftop sunset, and explore hot spots like Wildwoods Boardwalk and Morey’s Piers, all within walking distance! When staying with us, you can choose to stay at Ala Kai South or Ala Kai North. We make it easier than ever to kick back, relax, and enjoy a beach vacation the way you want. So, let’s make some summer memories together soon. Book your stay today!

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Cass is a writer who focuses on travel, outdoor fun, and local culture. When not working, she enjoys watching movies, listening to her record collection, and biking with her boyfriend, Ryan. She also dreams of earning that Paul Hollywood handshake and making it on the Great British Baking Show one day.

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