Wildwood, N.J. - For decades, Canadian families have been part of summer in Wildwood, filling motel rooms, booking rentals, and returning year after year. But this season, some local business owners and tourism officials say that longtime pattern appears to be shifting.


Hospitality operators across the Jersey Shore have reported a noticeable slowdown in Canadian visitors. Local officials say bookings from Canadian travelers have softened, and some visitors who would normally reserve early are either cancelling or holding back.

In Wildwood, NJ, business leaders are watching this trend closely. Canadian tourists have been part of the town’s identity for generations, and any drop in those repeat visitors can ripple through motels, rentals restaurants, and boardwalk businesses. In Wildwood specifically, Canadian visitors have made up as much as 10% of the total tourism in some years.


Cape May County officials have previously said Canadian travelers make up a significant portion of summer visitors and tend to stay longer than many domestic visitors, making their absence especially noticeable for local businesses. Businesses say some Canadian guests have canceled trips amid ongoing political tensions, border concerns, and rising costs. Instead of traveling to places like the Jersey Shore, some Canadians who would typically visit are not opting for “staycations” to avoid potential issues while abroad.