We're planning a short trip with our 11 year old child to the Jersey Shore. Made reservations at the Days Inn Suite in Wildwood-we were looking for a few days at the beach with things for my child to do. She will love water parks and honky tonk board walk. We'll probably love visiting Cape May...But, what I've read on the board makes Wildwood sound like I may have made a huge mistake. Will it be full of drunk teens?
Will it be very loud at night? I thought it was a more family oriented place...Advise welcome. Thanks!

rb:
My niece prefers Seaside Heights. Broadwalk, arcades, amusment park....frozen custard!!

Wildwood is more family oriented than Seaside. I spent a week in Wildwood last year and just returned from Seaside and I was surprised at how much nicer Wildwood was. I think you'll be pleased with your choice.

Wildwood is definetly family oriented. Your daughter will love it. I have been going every year since I was 9 years old. That would be 40 years. My fondest memories are of Wildwood, the boardwalk and the miniture golf courses. Sure there are teenagers but the police are everywhere. Have Fun.

It really depends on your personality and life style. My parents took us to Wildwood Crest as kids as it is a family place. Depending on where your hotel is located and if any conventions are in town will the noise level factor in. The boards are crowed with young folks, and you do have to be careful - I wouldn't let your daughter go out alone. The board are full of amusements, food, and "stuff" to buy. Your daughter may love it....On the other hand, I agree that you and your husband will enjoy Cape May very much. For your next trip there, try out the Victorian Rose B&B.

It really depends on your personality and life style. My parents took us to Wildwood Crest as kids as it is a family place. Depending on where your hotel is located and if any conventions are in town will the noise level factor in. The boards are crowed with young folks, and you do have to be careful - I wouldn't let your daughter go out alone. The board are full of amusements, food, and "stuff" to buy. Your daughter may love it....On the other hand, I agree that you and your husband will enjoy Cape May very much. For your next trip there, try out the Victorian Rose B&B.

Try Wildwood Crest. My parents would take us down there for a week every summer when I was a kid. You are close to all the activity of the boardwalks, but the Crest is quieter, more family oriented vs drunken 20-somethings, and it has a big beach. One of the nicest places to stay is the Port Royal which is directly on the beach. http://www.portroyalhotel.com/
Another nice place is the Lotus Inn which is right across the street from the beach. http://www.lotusinn.com/

Whatever you do, don't book a place in North Wildwood = very zooey

ttt

Nobody has anything more to say?

Wildwood is improving because of the new convention center, but its still a little wild and crazy. I would prefer Ocean City, NJ. Quiet, family oriented, dry, great boardwalk and amusements!

I prefer to take my children to Wildwood or Wildwood Crest over Seaside Heights. Wildwood has a nice beach and boardwalk, and is definitely more family oriented. Seaside Heights is where most of the wild teenagers go.

Had a busy week and just checked in. Thanks to all who responded. I feel better now about our choice. We are doing our first three days at the Marriott in Absecon NJ (very nice but low key place) before heading to Wildwood so I think it will be a fine transition. Have a good summer everyone!