This week’s sweltering NYC temperatures have us longing for the beach, and now a specific one is being added to our summer bucket list!
Now that it’s officially “Down the Shore” season, our minds jog straight to the Jersey Shore, the cute beach towns, and of course the marvelous beaches.
But one is now officially being called the best, that’s according to a new report by USA Today.
The Wildwoods, located in various parts of Wildwood, New Jersey were named Jersey’s best, picked specifically for boasting the largest stretches of sand on the Jersey Shore (500 yards wide at points).
The area’s cluster of beaches are not only spacious, but FREE, and are perfect for summertime activities like volleyball, surfing, boogie boarding, or just playing in the waves.
There’s even a beach taxi service that brings visitors from the boardwalk to the shore, that’s how big we’re talking!
Not to mention, the award-winning beach is surrounded by a world-famous 38-block boardwalk, packed with amusement rides, water parks, arcades, shops, and diverse dining options.
Plus, The Wildwoods host over 160 events each year, including free fireworks, music, and festivals, which you can even plan a trip around.
So how far away from NYC is it exactly?
The Wildwoods are only about 2 – 3 hours away from NYC by car, making it a great roadtrip spot for all ages.
Looking for public transportation options? You can also take a direct bus from Manhattan to Wildwood through various companies, which take a little longer due to traffic (normally a little over 3 hours, sometimes 4).
Check out the full list of NJ’s best beaches below.
The 10 best beaches in New Jersey for 2025, according to USA Today
- The Wildwoods
- Ocean City
- Atlantic City
- Cape May
- Sea Isle City
- Long Beach Island
- Asbury Park
- Avalon
- Brigantine Beach
- Avon-by-the-Sea
🏖️ Learn more about each beach on the list, via the entire USA Today report here!