Our community is getting a safer way to enjoy everything the Jersey Shore has to offer this summer. A new weekend shuttle service connecting The Wildwoods and Cape May will begin operations on Saturday, May 23, 2026, just in time for Memorial Day Weekend, as local officials work to address rising impaired driving incidents.
Coastal Cruiser, powered by Metropolis Passenger Logistics, will operate every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. through Labor Day Weekend. The hop-on, hop-off service will transport visitors and residents to wineries, breweries, distilleries, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, and other popular destinations throughout lower Cape May County.
The timing couldn't be more critical. According to New Jersey Judiciary Municipal Court statistics, Cape May County reported 690 DWI filings during the July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025 court year—an increase from the previous year. Wildwood City alone accounted for 118 DWI filings, while the combined Wildwoods municipalities totaled 203 arrests.
The shuttle route will make stops at some of our area's most beloved destinations, including Cape May Winery, Willow Creek Winery, Turdo Vineyards, Nauti Spirits, Cape May Brewery, MudHen Brewing Company, Behr Brewing Company, Cold Spring Brewery, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, MAC Visitors Center, and downtown Wildwood near the boardwalk entrance.
Riders will be able to track shuttle locations in real time through a mobile app, making it easy to plan their day. Day passes cost $40 when purchased in advance or $45 at the shuttle, with discounts available for multi-day purchases.
The service also addresses a lesser-known safety concern: intoxicated bicyclists. While drunk driving laws don't apply to bicycles in New Jersey because a bicycle isn't considered a motor vehicle, operating a bicycle while intoxicated remains both illegal and dangerous. According to the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety, nearly one-fourth of all fatal bicycle crashes statewide involve either a cyclist or a motorist who is legally intoxicated. Motorized bicycles and certain high-speed electric bikes may qualify under the motor vehicle statute.
For this inaugural season, Coastal Cruiser is scheduled to run on weekends from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend. More information and passes are available through Coastal Cruiser. Whether you're a local looking for a stress-free day exploring our county's craft beverage scene or a visitor wanting to experience the shore responsibly, this new service offers a welcome solution for our community.
About the Author
South Jersey NewsBeat
South Jersey NewsBeat is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
