Summer is practically knocking on our doors and planning those weekend escapes from the city is officially top priority!
Luckily, the experts have already done the heavy lifting for us.
A brand new study just dropped crowning the absolute best beach in New Jersey for 2026, and this massive, lively stretch of sand is begging to be on your summer bucket list.
The travel gurus over at USA Today recently released their highly anticipated 10Best list for New Jersey beaches, and The Wildwoods officially snagged the number one spot (for the second consecutive year).
Taking the crown as the ultimate summer destination, this iconic Jersey Shore staple proved that bigger really is better when it comes to your weekend getaway.
Here’s why it’s worth a visit this summer.
Why The Wildwoods took the top spot
When USA Today looked at the coastline, they were blown away by the sheer size of The Wildwoods.
Featuring the largest stretches of sand on the entire Jersey Shore, the beach is a staggering 500 yards wide at certain points.
That means there is plenty of room to spread out your towels, pitch an umbrella, and not feel like you are sitting right on top of your neighbors.
Even cooler? The beach is completely free to enter.
You don’t have to worry about buying daily beach tags like you do at many other shore towns down the coast.
The Wildwoods also offer a super unique beach taxi service that drives visitors right from the boardwalk to a spot closer to the crashing waves, making hauling your cooler and chairs a total breeze.
Exploring the legendary boardwalk
You cannot talk about The Wildwoods without shouting out the world-famous boardwalk.
Stretching across 38 blocks, this entertainment hub is packed with an electric energy day and night.
It is surrounded by colorful, retro Doo Wop architecture that makes you feel like you stepped right into a vintage 1950s postcard.
Between soaking up the sun, you can hop on the iconic Sightseer Tramcar, grab some legendary saltwater taffy, or chase thrills at Morey’s Piers.
With huge roller coasters and beachfront waterparks sitting directly on the sand, the adrenaline rush is very very real.
What is happening in summer 2026
The Wildwoods are going all out for summer 2026!
Every single Friday night from late June through Labor Day, the beach lights up with a free fireworks spectacular right over the boardwalk.
Music lovers can gear up for the massive Barefoot Country Music Fest happening this June, bringing huge Nashville stars right to the beach.
Add in the classic car shows, the famous International Kite Festival, and outdoor beach movies, and you have a calendar packed with endless excuses to visit.
Clocking in at around a two-and-a-half-hour drive from NYC, The Wildwoods offer the perfect balance of free sandy beaches and nonstop boardwalk action.
It is officially time to pack up the car and see exactly why this Jersey gem is sitting pretty at number one!
