Winter at the Jersey Shore
Discover the magic of the off-season: Polar Bear Plunges, St. Patrick's Day parades, Taste Atlantic City, and peaceful beaches without the crowds.
Why Visit in Winter?
No Crowds
Have the beaches and boardwalks to yourself
Lower Rates
50-70% off peak summer hotel prices
Unique Events
Polar Plunges, parades, food festivals
Photography
Dramatic winter light and empty beaches
Month-by-Month Events
January
- •Wildwood Polar Bear Plunge
Mid-January
- •Wildwood Fishing & Boating Expo
Early January
- •Wild Con
Mid-January
- •AC Wing Fest
Late January
February
- •Seaside Heights Polar Bear Plunge
3rd Saturday
- •Stone Pony Anniversary
Early February
- •Asbury Park Music Awards
Late February
- •Atlantic City Boat Show
Late February
March
- •Belmar St. Patrick's Day Parade
1st Sunday
- •Atlantic City St. Patrick's Day Parade
Weekend before 3/17
- •Ocean County Parade (Seaside)
2nd Sunday
- •Asbury Park St. Patrick's Day Parade
2nd Sunday
- •Taste Atlantic City
All Month
- •MAAC Basketball Championships
Early March
Winter Destinations
Atlantic City
Casinos, shows, dining, and nightlife—all year round
Wildwood
20th Anniversary Polar Plunge and convention center events
Seaside Heights
NJ's largest Polar Plunge and St. Patrick's Day celebration
Asbury Park
Year-round music scene, restaurants, and cultural events
Belmar
Home to NJ's largest St. Patrick's Day parade
Cape May
Victorian charm, birding, and cozy B&Bs year-round
Indoor Activities
When the weather keeps you indoors, the shore still has plenty to offer.
Atlantic City Casinos
Atlantic City
24/7 EntertainmentSilverball Retro Arcade
Asbury Park
Pinball MuseumDoo Wop Experience Museum
Wildwood
FREE MuseumAbsecon Lighthouse
Atlantic City
Historic LighthouseTanger Outlets
Atlantic City
ShoppingCape May MAC Tours
Cape May
Historic ToursOff-Season Hotel Deals
🎰 Atlantic City Casinos
Midweek rates as low as $59-89/night. Many casinos offer free parking validation and dining credits for overnight guests.
🏨 Shore B&Bs
Cape May and Ocean Grove B&Bs offer cozy winter packages with fireplaces, breakfast, and sometimes wine tastings.
🌴 Doo-Wop Motels
Wildwood's iconic mid-century motels that stay open offer significant discounts. Experience retro charm without summer prices.
📱 Last-Minute Apps
Use HotelTonight or casino apps for same-day deals. Winter inventory often results in dramatic price cuts.
FAQs
Is the Jersey Shore worth visiting in winter?
Absolutely! Winter offers unique events like Polar Bear Plunges, St. Patrick's Day parades, and Taste Atlantic City. You'll find lower hotel rates, no crowds, and a peaceful beach experience. Atlantic City casinos are open year-round with full entertainment.
What is open at the Jersey Shore in winter?
Atlantic City casinos, restaurants, and entertainment are fully operational year-round. Many shore towns have year-round restaurants, museums, and indoor attractions. Boardwalks are open for walking but most seasonal businesses close.
Are the beaches open in winter?
Yes! Beaches are free and open year-round (no badges needed in winter). They're perfect for peaceful walks, photography, and of course, Polar Bear Plunges. Just don't expect lifeguards or beach services.
When do Polar Bear Plunges happen?
The largest NJ Polar Bear Plunge is in Seaside Heights (third Saturday of February). Wildwood hosts a plunge in mid-January. Both benefit Special Olympics NJ.
What are winter hotel rates like?
Winter rates are typically 50-70% lower than peak summer prices. Atlantic City casino hotels offer excellent midweek deals, and shore motels that stay open have significant discounts.
Plan Your Winter Trip
Experience the Quiet Side of the Shore
Lower prices, unique events, and beaches all to yourself.