Blue Palms

The most noticeable thing about the 72-room Blue Palms is its collection of blue plastic palm trees, which are undeniably tacky, yet playful and endearing. The fun-spirited vibe continues inside the rooms, which are decorated with brightly patterned bedspreads, 1960s globe lights, faux wooden floors, and retro wall art -- all changes that took place during renovations in 2012.The three-floor hotel has a separate “bungalow” addition that features its own smaller (and quieter) pool. This area is perfect for guests who want to avoid the crowds at the main pool during busy summer weekends.Blue Palms is one of four hotels owned and operated by the Morey family of Wildwood. The Moreys also own three amusement piers (Mariner’s, Surfside and Adventure) and two water parks (Raging Water and Ocean Oasis). This family-friendly hotel offers plenty of opportunities to relax on sundecks, by the pool, or around the fire pit.

As far as location goes, it doesn’t get much better than the Blue Palms. Situated on Atlantic Avenue in the heart of downtown Wildwood, the hotel is across the street from the Wildwood Boardwalk and one block from the beach. It’s surrounded by shops and restaurants -- from pizzerias and diners to fine dining and ice cream parlors -- and within walking distance to water parks and the Ferris wheel at Morey’s Pier. There’s also a bar next door. During the summer, Victorian open-air trolley cars run from Wildwood Crest through North Wildwood, which make it easy to see other parts of town.

These retro-inspired rooms feature 1960s globe lights and pop artwork of vintage beach scenes. All come with mini-fridges, microwaves, and flat-screen TVs. Suites have separate living rooms with murphy or sofa beds. Family Suites come with bunk beds and kitchenettes with stovetops, while Pool View Suites offer a queen-size bed and kitchenettes without burners. The rooms have been remodeled with attractive faux hardwood floors, so no nasty carpeting here -- though the green, motel-style patterned comforters could use an update. The Boardwalk Bungalow Rooms are located in a quieter side building, where a smaller, shallower pool is located; these may appeal to families with kids.

Guests have access to free beach cruiser bicycles (blue, of course), beach chairs, and boogie boards. There’s free daily coffee and continental breakfast (in season) that includes juice, coffee, tea, bagels, and pastries. Guests receive discounts to the Morey family’s amusement parks and water parks (about 40 percent off admission). There are two heated pools (one average size, one small and four-feet deep) with a separate kiddy section. Other features include a laundry room, barbecue grills, three sundecks, a fire pit, free parking (one car per room), free Wi-Fi, and ice machines. There’s no elevator, so be prepared to hoist your belongings up some stairs.