The Wildwoods shot to first place in USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards, leading a stunning South Jersey takeover of the state’s top beach spots for 2025.
Ocean City clinched second place, while Atlantic City surged into third. Cape May and Sea Isle City claimed fourth and fifth, marking an unprecedented South Jersey sweep at the top.
The rankings shifted northward, starting at sixth place with Long Beach Island. Asbury Park, the northern coast’s star performer, secured seventh. Three more South Jersey gems — Avalon, Brigantine Beach, and Avon-by-the-Sea — filled the remaining spots.
The Wildwoods stands out with its vast sandy expanse. Visitors trek across the wide beach to reach the waves, passing through one of the state’s most striking coastal scenes. A sprawling boardwalk stretches alongside, packed with attractions.
North Jersey’s beaches didn’t crack the list until Long Beach Island at number six. Asbury Park shone as the Northern region’s top contender, placing seventh in the state.
South Jersey’s dominance continued through the bottom ranks. Avalon took eighth, as Brigantine Beach slid into ninth. Avon-by-the-Sea capped the rankings at ten.
The results paint a clear picture: South Jersey rules the waves. Eight spots went to southern beaches, leaving just two northern towns to wave the flag for their region.
These voter-driven rankings reflect beach-goers’ strong pull toward South Jersey’s coastal charm. The annual list serves as a trusted guide for summer plans