Most tourists who visit the Jersey Shore arrive with beaches, cocktails, and cabanas on their mind, but our lively slice of New Jersey is also home to some of the most diverse and unique habitats on the East Coast. When you choose to vacation at ICONA Resorts, you’re always minutes away from a beach, ocean, or boardwalk adventure. ICONA Diamond Beach has firmly placed itself as one of the premier Wildwood Crest NJ hotels thanks to our prime beach access, great dining, and pristine hotel suites. We know you’re in town to sunbathe on Diamond Beach, stroll down the Wildwood Boardwalk, and soak in our lavish heated pool, but don’t forget to visit these three South Jersey hidden gems during your visit to beautiful Wildwood Crest NJ.
Sunset Beach / SS Atlantus
Most people visit South Cape May Meadows and Cape May Point State Park to explore the tall, pearly white lighthouse and surrounding natural beauty without thinking twice about stopping at nearby Sunset Beach. Not only does this underrated South Jersey beach offer the best sunsets in the state, but it’s also the final resting place of the SS Atlantus, the most famous concrete World War II ship in the United States. The last remains of the SS Atlantus stand high above the azure blue Delaware Bay. Snorkelers and kayakers often visit the site to pay tribute. The beach itself is quiet, pristine, and utterly beautiful.
Strawberry Avenue Boardwalk
Very few South Jersey attractions are as undervalued as the Strawberry Avenue Boardwalk near the charming port town of Bivalve NJ. It’s only a matter of time before Philadelphians and Jersey Shore tourists discover this genuine hidden gem. The 3.6-mile out-and-back boardwalk begins at the end of Strawberry Avenue and meanders through serene New Jersey wetlands. You’ll stroll past dying trees, tall grass, sluggish creeks, and rare fauna.
The Wetlands Institute
The Wetlands Institute in Stone Harbor NJ beautifully encapsulates the spirit of the Strawberry Avenue Boardwalk: natural habitats, lush wetlands, and thriving fauna. They’re only open on the weekends during the cozy season, but there’s still plenty to learn and explore during your visit to this underappreciated institution. Visitors can “adopt” a baby terrapin, horseshoe crab, or oystercatcher by donating to the non-profit. The money goes directly toward the hatching, head-starting, and releasing of these often forgotten animals. The Wetlands Institute hosts festivals, events, lectures, programs, and so much more! This non-profit features an aquarium, marsh walkways, nature trails, and a lush garden.
Wildwood Crest NJ Hotels
ICONA Resorts has three year-round beachfront hotels that are steps from sandy beaches, great dining, lavish pools, and popular South Jersey attractions. Finish each evening at Coastal Blue Oceanside Bar & Grill inside ICONA Diamond Beach, one of the premier Wildwood Crest NJ hotels, for a delicious seafood dinner that you won’t soon forget. Dial 1-609-551-0102 to book an overdue escape to lively South Jersey!
