Our state's beach debate has a new winner. The Wildwoods has been crowned New Jersey's best beach according to USA TODAY's 10BEST reader's choice contest, edging out beloved shore destinations across the Garden State.
The recognition comes after USA TODAY's expert panel selected 20 New Jersey beaches earlier this year as contenders for the title. Readers then voted to narrow the field to a top 10, with The Wildwoods emerging victorious.
What sets The Wildwoods apart? For starters, the destination boasts some of the widest beaches along the Jersey Shore — stretching 500 yards at certain points. That's plenty of room for beach volleyball, surfing, boogie boarding, or simply enjoying the waves without feeling crowded.
Perhaps most appealing to budget-conscious beachgoers: The Wildwoods beaches are completely free. No beach tags required, a rarity along our coastline where most municipalities charge for beach access during summer months.
The destination even offers a beach taxi service that transports visitors from the boardwalk to spots closer to the ocean, making it easier to haul chairs and umbrellas across those expansive stretches of sand.
Beyond the beach itself, The Wildwoods earned recognition for its iconic retro architecture and the legendary Wildwood Boardwalk, which USA TODAY described as a major entertainment hub offering an electric atmosphere from morning through night.
The full top 10 list showcases the diversity of our shore communities. Atlantic City claimed second place, followed by Sea Isle City in third. Cape May, known for its Victorian charm, landed in fourth place, while Brigantine Beach rounded out the top five.
Ocean City secured the sixth spot, with Long Beach Island, Avalon, Avon-by-the-Sea, and Asbury Park completing the top 10.
Each of these destinations brings its own character to the Jersey Shore experience — from family-friendly boardwalks to quiet stretches perfect for relaxation. The reader-driven nature of the contest reflects what matters most to the people who actually visit these beaches year after year.
Whether you're a loyal regular at your hometown beach or planning to explore new sand this summer, the recognition reminds us just how fortunate we are to have such incredible coastal destinations right in our backyard.
About the Author
Karen Johnson
With over 30 years of news experience in major markets like Los Angeles, Denver, and Columbus, Karen now covers our area for South Jersey NewsBeat. She also brings her articulate and conversational news delivery to WOND radio listeners every weekday. Her background includes work with the NBC Radio Network, and she thrives in fast-paced news environments.
