What should I pack for a Wildwood beach trip?

Don't forget: cash for the boardwalk (some games/food vendors are cash only), a beach bag that can get sandy (leave the nice tote at home), and some kind of shade for midday (popup tent is worth it for families with babies).

Essentials: beach wagon/cart (biggest game changer), umbrella + chairs, cooler with ice packs, lots of sunscreen (SPF 50+, reapply every 2 hours — NJ sun is intense), rash guards for kids, flip flops, extra towels. Optional but great: portable speaker, sand anchors for umbrella (wind picks up fast), and a spray bottle for misting.