No Drinking On The Beach In Wildwood This Summer

WILDWOOD, NJ — One of the Jersey Shore's popular party spots is hoping to be less so this summer with a new ban on drinking.

The Wildwood Board of Commissioners passed an ordinance this week enacting a strict ban on alcohol on the beach and boardwalk.

Consuming, displaying or possessing alcoholic beverages is prohibited in both areas, whether open or closed. However, designated bars and restaurants are exempt.

It comes with a penalty of up to $2,000 in fines and potentially 90 days in jail.

Another new ordinance passed reclassifies minor violations like underage drinking and alcohol possession as "breaches of peace."

Both ordinances are attempts at curbing large gatherings of teenagers and young adults which have been a growing concern in shore towns, from Wildwood all the way up to Long Branch.

Ocean City was the first in Cape May County to enact such a "breach of peace" ordinance back in January, after gatherings caused some residents and vacationers to consider no longer bringing their children to America's Favorite Family Resort.

"Personally, I don't take my kids up to the boardwalk in the summertime after dark," Councilman Tom Rotondi said at the time. Read more: Police Get More Power To Stop Teen Gatherings In Ocean City

Wildwood is the latest town to try and stop these gatherings and "pop-up parties" that have been plaguing the shore recently.

Toms River has reinstituted their curfew on the barrier island for kids under 18. Read more: Teen Curfew Resumes For Ortley, North Beaches For Summer 2023

And just last month, authorities in several shore towns warned of the return of often dangerous "pop-up parties," though none came to fruition.

Read More

Another 'Pop-Up' Party Planned At Jersey Shore, Authorities Warn

Latest Long Branch Pop-Up Party Canceled, Organizers Say

Potential Pop-Up Party In Point Pleasant Beach Shut Down

Pop-Up Party In Seaside Heights Blocked By Court Order