Island Hopping – Last week in June!

Wake up and hit the waves for a thrilling start to the morning. Lakeview Docks of Wildwood Crest features awesome deals on Wave Runner rentals available in singles, doubles, and triples. Cruise through the waves solo, let a friend do the driving, or take in the view from Lakeview’s brand new post-Sandy pier. Situated on scenic Sunset Lake, Lakeview Docks is the perfect place to kick off a Cape May County morning. Prefer to enjoy the morning sun from shore? Jump on one of the island’s most unique customized cruisers for the hour, day, or week at Zippy’s Bikes of Wildwood. Located downtown on Pacific Ave, Zippy’s offers a free lock and helmet with every rental and can pick up and deliver any rental cruisers. Power through the sand on Zippy’s Sun Spider 2 speed beach bike or ride with a friend in tow on Zippy’s vibrant yellow tandem bike.

After spending the day cruising through the sand or town, head over to Wildwood’s Park Blvd to cool down at Ice House Bar and Restaurant. Happy Hour kicks off at 3 pm daily featuring a $5 frozen drink of the day which differs each day of the week. Stop by on a “Finsday” Wednesday and enjoy ½ price appetizers or spend “Crabby” Monday sampling ½ price mussels on Ice House’s second floor scenic deck. If you’d rather sponsor a happy hour of your own, stop by Joe Canal’s of Rio Grande for all of your drink and appetizer needs. Having undergone a huge expansion, the store now features a massive collection of wine, spirits, and craft, imported, and domestic brews. Joe Canal’s has also unveiled a brand new collection of DiBruno Bros. cheese spreads, aged artisan cheeses, spreads, Crostini crackers, and more. The DiBruno spreads, including Abruzze, Port Wine, and Roasted Garlic flavors, are perfect as an appetizer on crackers or flat breads.

For a casual dinner in a bright atmosphere stop by Atlantic Avenue’s newest eatery, Pasta Pesto Italian Grill. . From the pasta to its delicious sauce, every aspect of Pasta Pesto’s dishes is made on-site in its sprawling kitchen. And on the way out, diners can take a piece of their homemade Italian meal home with them with a selection from Pasta Pesto’s display of pastas, oils, balsamic vinegar, pizelles, sauces, and Italian toast imported from small Italian producers. Those farther north on the island can also get a taste of authentic Italian delicacies at Little Italy of Wildwood Crest. Little Italy’s interior is designed in the warm terracotta and tile characteristic of Italian streets and features it very own 3-dimensional piazzas. Join them for Monday and Thursday Prime Rib night or feast on BBQ smoked ribs every Saturday night. The Early Bird Menu is offered Sunday through Friday from 4 to 5 pm and includes fresh salad or soup, one of Little Italy’s most famous entrees, and dessert for just $13.99.

As the sun sets, head to the northern end of the island where Wildwood nightlife heats up. Westy’s Irish Pub has been a favorite haunt of locals and visitors alike since its 1996 beginnings. Though the Celtic Lemonade is a major crowd pleaser, Westy’s long list of star entertainment is the real talk of the town. Big local names like the Zone Duo, Stellar Mojo, and Loop are set to hit the Westy’s stages throughout the summer, while tri-state sensation The Amish Outlaws will also be gracing the Westy’s stage on July 7, July 28, and August 31 beginning at 6 pm. 7-Mile Island patrons can also look forward to awesome evening entertainment. On Friday and Saturday night, head over to the Princeton where The Rockets, The Tall Boys, and the Benderzz will be rocking out this weekend.

After a late night out stop by Tuckahoe Inn for their satisfying Sunday breakfast. Tuckahoe’s “Specialty Breakfasts” include options such as Biscuits and Sausage Gravy, Creamed Chipped Beef, and Eggs Maryland. Or sleep in and swing by Wildwood Crest for lunch on the deck at the Crab House at Two Mile Landing. Feast on the All-You-Can-Eat Blue Claw Crab Special or opt for the Raw Bar Sampler for a taste of the Hansen family’s fresh catch of clams, oysters, and shrimp. The Crab House Taco Board and selection of chicken sandwiches are also a must-see. Head over the bridge and into Cape May for a cocktail at the Clipper Ship Pub at Axelsson’s Blue Claw Restaurant. The pub’s antique maritime décor and friendly bartenders make for a fun atmosphere to unwind. Over in North Cape May, 5 West Pub promises to become a new favorite local hangout. With six large flat screen TVs, 5 West is the place to be for the big game. Their signature drink, mixed with Dragon Berry Rum, cranberry juice, and their own homemade lemonade, is sure to do the trick.

By Megan Kummer