Summer along New Jersey’s coastline means something different to everyone. Some are looking for wide, open beaches. Others want a boardwalk full of music and food. And some just want a quiet place to spend time with family. The good news is — New Jersey has it all. From the lively shores of Wildwood to the charm of Cape May and the energy of Asbury Park, there’s a beach for every kind of day.
New Jersey personal injury lawyers are proud to support the communities we serve. That includes highlighting the best parts of summer in this state. If you’re planning a trip to the shore, here are three standout beach towns worth visiting this season.
Wildwood: Room to Spread Out — and No Beach Fees
Wildwood has earned back-to-back wins as the Best Beach in New Jersey, according to the 2025 USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. It’s also home to the #1 Best Boardwalk in the U.S., making it a clear favorite for visitors and locals alike.
One of Wildwood’s biggest advantages is its space. The area includes five miles of clean, wide beaches that stretch across North Wildwood, Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest. Unlike most New Jersey towns, no beach tag is needed here. It’s completely free to access, which makes a big difference for families and groups.
To make things easier, there are beach taxi services to help carry gear across the sand. The water is good for swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, and boogie boarding, and there’s no shortage of things to do.
Wildwood also offers free summer events, including:
- Fireworks on the beach
- Live music and boardwalk performances
- Seasonal festivals and themed weekends
If you’re looking for a beach where there’s always something happening — and room to enjoy it — Wildwood is a great place to start.
Cape May: History, Calm Waters, and Family Fun
If you want a slower pace and scenic surroundings, Cape May is the beach for you. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark, the town is known for its Victorian architecture, quiet streets, and clean, calm beaches.
It’s ideal for families with younger kids or anyone who wants a peaceful beach day. The waves are gentle, the sand is soft, and the town feels like it’s built for walking.
In addition to the beach, Cape May offers:
- Historic landmarks like the Cape May Lighthouse and Emlen Physick Estate
- Family-friendly hotels and inns, including Congress Hall
- Events like the Cape May Music Festival and the Craft Beer & Crab Festival
- Nearby wineries and small shops
Cape May is the kind of place where you can spend the day at the beach, grab dinner at a quiet restaurant, and walk back to your hotel while the sun sets. It’s simple, but in the best way.
Asbury Park: Beach Days with a Music Scene
Asbury Park has its own vibe. It’s creative, energetic, and a little different than your usual beach town. The boardwalk is lined with murals, local food spots, and shops, giving the area a more modern feel.
Music plays a big role in Asbury Park’s identity. The Stone Pony, one of New Jersey’s most iconic venues, hosts its Summer Stage shows outdoors all season long.
This summer’s highlights include:
- Weekly live performances at the Stone Pony Summer Stage
- The Sea.Hear.Now Festival on September 13–14, featuring Hozier, Blink-182, and more
In between shows, you’ll find plenty of options for dining, shopping, and hanging out by the water. Asbury Park also has a strong nightlife scene, with bars, lounges, and live events happening throughout the summer.
If you want your beach trip to include music, art, and something a little different, Asbury Park is worth the visit.
Conclusion
No matter what kind of summer you’re looking for, New Jersey’s beaches offer it. From free, open beaches in Wildwood, to historic charm in Cape May, to live music and boardwalk energy in Asbury Park — each town brings its own kind of experience.
At NJ Injury Lawyers, P.C., we encourage everyone to explore what makes the Jersey Shore special. Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying for the week, we hope your time by the water is safe, relaxing, and memorable.
