Irish Pubs
The Jersey Shore has an authentic Irish pub scene, especially in Wildwood where generations of Irish families have made it their summer home. Slainte!
Wildwood: The Irish Riviera
Since the 1960s, Wildwood has been a beloved destination for Irish and Irish-American families from Philadelphia and beyond. Each summer, workers from Ireland join the seasonal staff, bringing authentic Irish culture and music to the shore.
The result is a pub scene unlike anywhere else on the East Coast. Traditional music sessions, friendly craic, and the feeling that you might have stumbled into Dublin by the sea.
Keenan's Irish Pub
Legendary beachfront pub with live Irish music, traditional sessions, and a party atmosphere that's been going for decades.
Owen's Pub
Authentic Irish atmosphere with live music and a loyal following. A true taste of Ireland on the Jersey Shore.
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Irish Pubs
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Locations
60+
Years of Tradition
Live
Irish Music
Wildwood
All Wildwood Nightlife →Keenan's Irish Pub
Irish Pub
The heart of Wildwood's legendary Irish pub scene. Traditional Irish music sessions, Guinness on tap, and an authentic pub atmosphere that draws crowds all summer long.
- ✓Traditional Irish sessions
- ✓Authentic pub feel
- ✓Legendary in Wildwood
Best For
Tip: Arrive early on weekends - fills up fast. Traditional session Sundays are special.
Murphy's Irish Pub
Irish Pub
Another staple of Wildwood's Irish pub row. Live music nightly in summer, great craic, and a welcoming atmosphere for the many Irish visitors and workers who make Wildwood their summer home.
- ✓Live music every night
- ✓Authentic Irish staff
- ✓Part of the pub crawl
Best For
Tip: Ask the bartenders for the best pub crawl route.
The Irish Pub Experience
Traditional Sessions
Musicians gather for informal traditional Irish music sessions. Fiddles, tin whistles, bodhrans, and voices raised in song.
The Craic
That ineffable Irish combination of fun, conversation, and good times. Best experienced firsthand at a proper pub.
Irish Staff
Many seasonal workers come directly from Ireland, bringing authentic hospitality and stories from home.
Proper Pints
Guinness poured right, Irish whiskeys, and ciders. Some pubs import directly for authentic selection.
Irish Pub Tips
Arrive for Sessions
Traditional music sessions often start around 9-10pm. Get there early to snag a good seat near the musicians.
Summer Only
Most Wildwood Irish pubs are seasonal. Plan your visit Memorial Day through Labor Day for the full experience.
Join the Sing-Along
When the crowd starts singing, join in! Nobody expects perfection - enthusiasm counts.
Cash Helps
Some smaller pubs prefer cash, especially for tips. Have some on hand just in case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Wildwood have so many Irish pubs?▼
Wildwood has been a destination for Irish and Irish-American families since the 1960s. Many seasonal workers from Ireland come to work each summer, creating an authentic Irish pub scene that's unique on the East Coast.
What is Keenan's Irish Pub?▼
Keenan's is a legendary Wildwood institution on the beach, featuring live Irish music, traditional sessions, and a party atmosphere. It's been drawing crowds for decades and is the heart of Wildwood's Irish scene.
Do Irish pubs have live music?▼
Yes! Traditional Irish music sessions, cover bands, and DJs are common. Wildwood pubs feature Irish and Celtic music regularly, especially on weekends. Owen's and Keenan's are known for live performances.
Are Irish pubs open year-round?▼
Most Wildwood Irish pubs are seasonal, operating Memorial Day through Labor Day with some extending into fall. Very limited winter hours. Check individual venues before off-season visits.
Explore Wildwood
Discover everything Wildwood has to offer beyond the pubs.