North Wildwood Live Cam

Boardwalk in North Wildwood, New Jersey



History

North Wildwood is a city located in Cape May County, New Jersey, USA. It is part of a group of communities collectively known as "The Wildwoods," which also includes Wildwood, Wildwood Crest, West Wildwood, and Diamond Beach. Here's a brief overview of North Wildwood's history:

Early Settlement and Development (Late 19th Century): North Wildwood, like many coastal towns in New Jersey, was initially settled by European immigrants in the late 19th century. It began as a small fishing and farming community.

Growth as a Resort Destination (Early to Mid-20th Century): In the early 20th century, the area started to develop as a popular resort destination. The construction of the North Wildwood Seawall in 1916 played a significant role in protecting the shoreline and attracting visitors.

Boardwalk and Tourism Boom (1920s-1950s): The construction of a boardwalk in North Wildwood, similar to its neighboring towns, further fueled its popularity as a vacation spot. The 1940s and 1950s were a boom period for the Wildwoods, with tourists flocking to the area for its beaches, amusements, and entertainment.

Hurricane Damage and Redevelopment (1960s): In the 1960s, the region was hit by a series of hurricanes, most notably Hurricane Donna in 1960, which caused significant damage. The city and its neighboring communities embarked on extensive redevelopment efforts to restore and modernize the area.

Continued Tourism and Urban Renewal (Late 20th Century): Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, North Wildwood continued to be a popular destination for vacationers, especially families. The city invested in urban renewal projects and modernized its amenities to attract visitors.

Recent Developments and Tourism (21st Century): In the 21st century, North Wildwood, like many coastal towns, has faced challenges such as beach erosion and coastal management. However, it remains a vibrant resort community, with a mix of permanent residents and seasonal visitors.

Cultural and Recreational Activities: North Wildwood hosts various events and activities throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and sporting events. The city also boasts parks, recreational facilities, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Economic Significance: Tourism is a cornerstone of North Wildwood's economy. The city relies heavily on the revenue generated from visitors who come for the beach, boardwalk, and other attractions.

Top Tourist Attractions

North Wildwood offers a range of attractions and activities that cater to a diverse audience. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in North Wildwood, New Jersey:

  • North Wildwood Beach: The city's main attraction is its beautiful, expansive beach. Visitors can relax in the sun, swim in the ocean, play beach sports, or take long walks along the shoreline.
  • North Wildwood Seawall: This historic seawall, built in 1916, stretches along the beach and provides a scenic spot for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying the view of the ocean.
  • Hereford Inlet Lighthouse: Located in nearby North Wildwood Crest, this beautifully restored lighthouse and surrounding gardens offer guided tours and stunning views of the ocean and surrounding area.
  • Anglesea Irish Memorial: Situated on the North Wildwood seawall, this memorial pays tribute to the Irish immigrants who lost their lives during the construction of the seawall in the early 20th century.
  • Sunset Lake: This picturesque inland lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, picnicking, and enjoying scenic views. There are also walking paths and a playground for families.
  • Veterans Memorial Park: Located at Spruce and New York Avenues, this park honors military veterans and features a range of monuments and plaques.
  • Splash Zone Water Park: A popular destination for families, this water park features a variety of slides, lazy river rides, pools, and other water attractions.
  • Bill Henfey Park: This park offers a playground, basketball courts, a baseball field, and open spaces for picnics and recreational activities.
  • Entertainment District: North Wildwood has a vibrant entertainment district along Olde New Jersey Avenue, which features bars, restaurants, live music venues, and a lively nightlife scene.
  • Cape May County Park & Zoo (Nearby): Just a short drive away in Cape May Court House, this free zoo is home to a diverse collection of animals and offers educational programs for visitors of all ages.
  • Cape May County Park and Zoo Trail System (Nearby): This network of trails provides opportunities for hiking, biking, and birdwatching in a natural setting.
  • Historic Cold Spring Village (Nearby): Located a bit further south in Cape May, this living history museum showcases life in the 18th and 19th centuries through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.

Remember to check the opening hours and any admission fees for specific attractions, as they may vary. Additionally, it's always a good idea to verify the availability of any attractions, especially if you're visiting during the off-season or in light of any unforeseen circumstances.

Climate

North Wildwood, like much of the northeastern United States, experiences a temperate maritime climate with distinct seasons. Here's an overview of the climate in North Wildwood:

  • Summer (June to August): Average High Temperature: 80-85°F (27-29°C). Average Low Temperature: 65-70°F (18-21°C). Precipitation: Summers are generally warm and humid. Rainfall is spread relatively evenly throughout the season, with occasional thunderstorms.
  • Fall (September to November): Average High Temperature: 70-75°F (21-24°C). Average Low Temperature: 55-60°F (13-16°C). Precipitation: Fall brings cooler temperatures and decreasing humidity levels. Rainfall may become slightly more frequent, particularly in October.
  • Winter (December to February): Average High Temperature: 45-50°F (7-10°C). Average Low Temperature: 30-35°F (-1 to 2°C). Precipitation: Winters are generally cold, with occasional snowfall. However, snow accumulation is usually modest and does not last for extended periods.
  • Spring (March to May): Average High Temperature: 55-60°F (13-16°C). Average Low Temperature: 40-45°F (4-7°C). Precipitation: Spring sees a gradual warming trend. Rainfall is relatively consistent with occasional showers.
  • Sea Surface Temperatures: During the summer months, sea temperatures in North Wildwood tend to range from the mid-60s to the low 70s °F (18-24°C). This makes for comfortable swimming conditions.
  • Hurricane Season: North Wildwood is located along the Atlantic Coast, which means it can be affected by hurricanes or tropical storms, especially during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1st to November 30th. While direct hits are relatively rare, the area can experience storm surge, heavy rain, and high winds from these systems.

It's worth noting that these are average climate patterns and temperatures. Actual conditions can vary from year to year due to natural climate variability. If you're planning a visit to North Wildwood, it's advisable to check a reliable weather source for the most current and specific forecasts.

Geography

It is situated on a barrier island along the southeastern coast of New Jersey, facing the Atlantic Ocean. Here are some key aspects of North Wildwood's geography:

  • Barrier Island: North Wildwood is located on a barrier island, which is a narrow strip of land that lies parallel to the mainland. Barrier islands serve as a natural buffer against ocean waves and storm surges. They are characterized by beaches on the ocean side and bay waters on the inland side.
  • Atlantic Ocean: The eastern border of North Wildwood is lined by the Atlantic Ocean. The city's coastline is known for its sandy beaches, which are popular with tourists during the summer months.
  • Hereford Inlet: To the north of North Wildwood, there is Hereford Inlet, a body of water that separates North Wildwood from the neighboring island of Anglesea. Hereford Inlet connects the Atlantic Ocean to the inland waterways.
  • Sunset Lake: To the west of North Wildwood lies Sunset Lake, an inland body of water. This lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities. It adds to the scenic beauty of the area.
  • Wildwood Island: North Wildwood is part of Wildwood Island, which also includes the neighboring municipalities of Wildwood, Wildwood Crest, and West Wildwood. This island is renowned for its beaches and tourist attractions.
  • Diverse Ecosystems: The region around North Wildwood supports a variety of natural habitats, including coastal dunes, salt marshes, and coastal forests. These ecosystems are important for local wildlife and contribute to the area's natural beauty.
  • Elevation: Like many coastal areas, North Wildwood has relatively low elevation, with most of the city being close to sea level. This makes it susceptible to flooding during storms and high tides.
  • Cape May Peninsula: North Wildwood is located on the Cape May Peninsula, a narrow landmass that extends southward into the Atlantic Ocean. This area is known for its scenic beauty, rich maritime history, and diverse wildlife.

The geographical features of North Wildwood contribute to its appeal as a coastal resort destination, offering a combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and access to the Atlantic Ocean.