The Wildwoods Are Experiencing a New Wave of Development
The Wildwoods, New Jersey, have long been a cherished destination for beach lovers and nostalgic souls. This iconic Jersey Shore resort is famous for its endless white-sand beaches, world-renowned boardwalk, and charming Doo Wop mid-century hotels. But guess what? It’s buzzing with new life and opportunities!
With an abundance of new developments, business ventures, and a growing list of attractions, the Wildwoods are making a comeback in a big way. From new hotels to dining establishments, here’s a peek into what’s happening in this coastal paradise.
Business Boom:
The Wildwoods are rolling out the welcome mat for business expansion. The resort is experiencing a surge in new developments, including eight new hotel properties, dining establishments, residential and vacation rental property developments, boardwalk renovations, and a boardwalk extension project.
Louis Belasco, the Executive Director of the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA), explains, “The Wildwoods offer excellent opportunities for business success, with attractive commercial and residential real estate corridors perfectly located in a Jersey Shore seaside setting. Our resort officials are continuously working to attract developers and nationally recognized retailers, while encouraging the growth of small, locally-owned businesses in our region.”
New Hotels:
- Seaport Suites: This brand-new four-story, mixed-use hotel boasts 63 modern units in downtown Wildwood, along with three dining concepts. Enjoy the exclusive pool, cabanas, and FOURCAST Day Club. Owned by Seaport Stays and operated by BG Capital, Seaport Suites offers shuttle service to nearby attractions. Located at 3601 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood.
- Oasis by Seaport Stays: With 26 townhomes and 12 apartments, the Oasis is perfect for families. It features a shared amenity space with a pool, barbecue area, and more. Located at 2911 New Jersey Avenue, Wildwood.
- MudHen Hospitality’s ‘Hen Houses’: This micro-resort offers seven charming beach house rentals with premium amenities, including an outdoor saltwater pool and lawn games. Located at 156 E. Taylor Avenue, Wildwood.
- Waves Hotel: Part of the Ascend Hotel Collection, Waves Hotel offers chic accommodations with easy access to the boardwalk and amusement parks. Located at 4001 Atlantic Avenue, Wildwood.
Under Construction:
- Madison Resort: A $12 million renovation is underway, adding a 5th floor with suites, a restaurant, a modern café, an infinity pool, cabanas, and more. Scheduled to be completed by Memorial Day Weekend 2024.
- The Hotel Cabana: Located on the Wildwoods Boardwalk, this hotel has undergone a complete renovation, offering modern guest rooms and suites. Located at 423 East 23rd Avenue, North Wildwood.
- The Wild Resort: Expected to open in 2025, this new Wildwood Boardwalk hotel will feature a hotel lobby and café on the Boardwalk, a second-floor restaurant and pool, hotel rooms, and luxury suites with private balconies overlooking the ocean.
- Mahalo Resorts: Formerly the Regal Plaza Beach Resort, Mahalo Resorts is under construction.
Also See: Emergency North Wildwood Bulkhead Installation to Combat Erosion Crisis
New Dining Establishments:
The Wildwoods are also tempting your taste buds with several new dining options, including:
- Starbucks: The only Starbucks location in the Wildwoods, offering drive-through and window pick-up. Located at the corner of Rio Grande Blvd. and Park Ave.
- Stephen’s Restaurant: Serving breakfast and dinner. Located at 401 E. Wildwood Ave., Wildwood.
- Utterly Ice Cream, Cereal, and Coffee Bar: Cereal-infused ice cream. Located at 3411 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood.
- Brandon’s Pancakes & Ice Cream Parlor: Pancakes and ice cream treats. Located at 6200 New Jersey Avenue, Wildwood Crest.
- Charlie’s Sandwich Shop: Brooklyn-style Italian subs. 5400 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood.
Boardwalk Renovations:
The iconic Wildwoods Boardwalk is getting a makeover through a multi-year project covering several phases. The aim is to refurbish and replace much of the Boardwalk, making it even more attractive to visitors.
Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ) Projects:
The Wildwoods are investing in projects to enhance the community, including improved accessibility, boardwalk revitalization, enhanced security, cleaner streets, traffic, and streetscape improvements, and more.
Sinclair Gas Station:
In a nod to the Wildwoods’ Doo Wop retro vibe, the Sinclair Gas Station offers a nostalgic experience with a retro sign, old-fashioned gas pump, and the beloved green dinosaur mascot, Dino.
Pacific Avenue Downtown Development:
The Pacific Avenue Downtown Business District is evolving thanks to a five-year designation from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs’ Neighborhood Preservation Program. This program is designed to revitalize Downtown Wildwood and ensure future economic success.