(Sandy Hook, NJ)…In early February, the New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium (NJMSC), New Jersey Sea Grant and the Richard Stockton College Coastal Research Center in conjunction with the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism launched the New Jersey’s Top Ten Beaches Survey at njtoptenbeaches.org. Three months and nearly 15,000 votes later, Wildwood Beach in Cape May County was chosen as New Jersey’s best.

The official list and rankings were revealed at NJMSC’s Sixth Annual State of the Shore Media Event on May 22nd, 2008 at The Seagull’s Nest on Sandy Hook. Wildwood earned top honor with approximately 14 percent of the popular vote. Over 60 beaches from Monmouth to Cape May Counties were in contention for the top distinction. Rounding out the top ten list were Wildwood Crest, Ocean City, North Wildwood, Cape May, Asbury Park, Avalon, Point Pleasant Beach, Beach Haven, and Stone Harbor. Wildwood also took home top honors in two special categories, being hailed as New Jersey’s Best Beach for Tourism and for Events, while Wildwood Crest and Island Beach State Park were selected for Family Vacation and Ecotourism, respectively. Beaches winning in each of the special categories as well as the top beach overall received a special sign denoting the honor. NJMSC anticipates conducting the Top Ten Beaches Survey annually.