I recently took a six day vacation to two different beaches for a couple of days. While I was at each beach, I noticed that there are a good amount of differences, as well as similarities, to both beaches. Yes, one beach was in North Wildwood, New Jersey while the other beach was in Dewey, Delaware. Although that is a huge difference, it is not one that I am going to address due to the fact everyone knows that. I'm talking about the quality and upkeep of each beach, the difference in boardwalks nearby, and the atmosphere all together.
The North Wildwood beach that I went too had very clear water. I could see my hands under the water, and I could even see the bottom once the waves pushed back. The amount of seashells I saw were amazing. They had sand dunes all over which was really nice and convenient for kids and people who don't like getting all the way in. You could even see dolphins jumping in the water not too far out! Dewey Beach had very mucky water, I couldn't see anything below me once I got in. The waves were a lot nicer for people to jump, surf, buggie board, and swim in. The sand wasn't as hot and the walk to get to the beach was a lot shorter. Dewey was very busy and North Wildwood was more quiet and private. Both beaches however, had nice crisp water that made you cool off from being in the heat instantly.
The Wildwood Boardwalk was the busiest I've ever seen a boardwalk. They had three different huge sections containing rides, and at least over 15 different arcades. They had several trams going to and from each end of the boardwalk on either side. They had live performances on the sand and monster truck shows on the beach as well. The boardwalk, although very crowded, wasn't full of chaos or interesting people. The Ocean City boardwalk was very crowded as well, but the people didn't seem very aware of the other people around them. The boardwalk was a lot shorter and had several hotels along it as well. I had a great time at both; they're a great place to have some fun on vacation.
North Wildwood doesn't have as many stores or buildings as Dewey. North Wildwood has a more peaceful drive and not too much traffic. Dewey has crazy traffic, but if you need anything while on your vacation, it isn't that far of a drive; you could even walk. At North Wildwood, if you need something you're going to have to drive a good 10-15 minutes to get to a grocery store and you definitely can't walk anywhere.
I loved both North Wildwood and Dewy very much. Both places are great vacation spots to go for a nice, long vacation. I recommend both, because either way you will not be disappointed.
