NJShore Guide

Fourth of July in Wildwood

Free beach & legendary boardwalk fireworks

FreeBeach Badges
2 MilesBoardwalk
10 PMFireworks
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Fourth Of July Weekend at a Glance

Saturday

July 4, 2026

10 PM

Fireworks Start

Free

Beach Always

100+

Boardwalk Rides

Why Wildwood for July 4th?

Wildwood is the people's choice for July 4th at the Jersey Shore. The beach is always free - no badge ever - and the boardwalk delivers non-stop entertainment. Morey's Piers has over 100 rides, and the fireworks are spectacular.

The beach is massive - up to 1,000 feet wide in places - so there's always room. The Friday Night Fireworks tradition means Wildwood knows how to put on a show, and July 4th is the biggest of the year.

From the retro Doo Wop motels to the classic boardwalk games, Wildwood has a nostalgic Americana vibe that's perfect for Independence Day. And with three communities (Wildwood, Wildwood Crest, North Wildwood), there's a flavor for everyone.

πŸ’• Sample Romantic Weekend

Morning Beach

Free beach! Arrive early for parking. Wide beaches mean plenty of space.

Boardwalk Adventures

Morey's Piers, water parks, classic boardwalk games and food.

Sunset on the Beach

Grab boardwalk food and find your fireworks spot on the sand.

Fireworks Spectacular

Fireworks at 10 PM. Launched from the beach for maximum impact.

Romantic Restaurants

Reserve 2-3 weeks early for fourth of july weekend. Many offer special prix-fixe menus.

Sam's Pizza Palace

$

Pizza

Wildwood institution since 1957

Mack's Pizza

$

Pizza

Giant slices, classic boardwalk

The Crab Shack

$$

Seafood

Fresh seafood on the water

Dogtooth Bar & Grill

$$

American

Great bar scene, live music

Duffer's Restaurant

$$

American

Family dining, mini golf combo

Key West Cafe

$$

American

Wildwood Crest breakfast spot

Romantic B&Bs & Hotels

Wildwood's accommodations offer the perfect romantic retreat. Many offer special packages.

Starlux Boutique Hotel

Doo Wop iconic

Retro style, pool, steps from boardwalk

Armada by the Sea

Oceanfront luxury

Private beach access, upscale amenities

Caribbean Motel

Classic Doo Wop

Iconic sign, pool, family-friendly

Oceanview Motel

Budget-friendly

Pool, free parking, close to everything

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Book Romantic Experiences

Romantic Activities

All Day
Beach Dayβ€” Free beach - no badge needed ever!
11 AM - Midnight
Morey's Piersβ€” Extended July 4th hours, wristband specials
10 AM - 8 PM
Ocean Oasis Waterparkβ€” Beachfront water park fun
All Day
Boardwalk Tramβ€” Watch the tram car please!

fourth of july Weekend Tips

Parking Tips

  • β€’ Meters enforce until 2 AM on July 4th
  • β€’ Arrive by 10 AM for free street parking
  • β€’ Paid lots near boardwalk fill fast

Money Savers

  • β€’ Beach is always free!
  • β€’ Buy Morey's pier passes in advance
  • β€’ Many motels include free parking

Fireworks Tips

  • β€’ Show at 10 PM, later than most towns
  • β€’ Beach viewing has best perspective
  • β€’ North Wildwood and Crest have good views too

Other Romantic Shore Getaways

Frequently Asked Questions

Plan Your Wildwood July 4th

Free beaches, classic boardwalk, and spectacular fireworks await.