I'm looking for recommendations for a late July, New Jersey Beach Family vacation spot. 5 and 8 year old children. Does Atlantic City have a nice beach and things for children?

Atlantic City would be my last choice. I prefer Stone Harbor, Avalon, or Cape May. These towns are more quaint and family oriented. If you want more action, Ocean City has the amusement rides and lively boardwalk. You also might want to consider Long Beach Island. Its more commercial with lots of things for kids but a step up from Atlantic City.

Any thought on Wildwood? We want a hotel right on the beach.

Our children have been taking our grandchildren to Wildwood Crest for years. They like the Fleur de Lys motel right on the beach, with a nice pool. Units have cooking facilities.
It's family friendly, an easy drive to restaurants and Boardwalk amusements, but far enough away from the noise and bustle that you don't get dragged there every night of your stay.

The best family oriented shore towns in Jersey are Ocean City(dry town- no liquor stores).Ocean City has a board walk with amusements.Stone Harbor & Avalon are both family -oriented with bike rentals, shops, miniature golf, etc. They both are a short distance from Ocean City. The Cape May Zoo is off of Route 9 & is a great day trip also.

jan,I think Wildwoods or Ocean City would be a choice.My family has been to both and would love to vacation in either of these places again!
We also have been to Stone Harbor and it's nice too but the 'knats'that come out come sundown and on the beach are too much for me to take.The other two are fine though!
Good Luck,Debbie