Wildwood vs Wildwood Crest — what's the actual difference?

Wildwood Crest is significantly quieter. The boardwalk is at the north end of the island, so Crest is a short drive or long walk. The beach is wider, less crowded, and the hotels are more family-resort style. Wildwood proper is louder, more commercial, more fun if you're young and want nightlife.

We go to Crest every year. You can hop on the tram car (it runs the length of the boardwalk) or just drive up. The extra 10 min trip is worth it for a calmer beach. Hotels here also tend to have bigger pools and quieter pools areas.