May 19, 2009 10:38 am US/Eastern
3 On Your Side: Beach Bargains
PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ―
The unofficial start of summer is just days away, so the countdown to shore season begins. And Your Money Team found, you can still go to the beach without breaking the bank!
3 On Your Side's Jim Donovan has beach bargains you don't want to miss.
Whether basking in the sun, playing in the sand, strolling the boardwalk or riding the rides, the Jersey shore has it all. And this season many shore towns are reacting to the "crabby" economy.
"We realize families are hurting a little, so we are doing value added for our customers and guests," said Michele Gillian with the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce.
She says visitors can find coupon books all over town.
"You're going to get money off rides, you're going get money off miniature golf, you're going to get money off rides, you're going to get free rides, you're going to get free sodas or hot dogs," said Gillian.
They have thrilling amusement deals too.
"They have two ticket Tuesdays where you can come down and ride the rides from 12 to 5 with two tickets. They also have wristband Wednesdays, where you ride the rides all afternoon for 20 dollars," said Gillian.
And what about beach tags? Buying for an entire family can add up, but if you act fast, you can save big. Many towns offer a pre-season rate if you purchase them before May 31.
"It's a great value, 100 days on the beach on Ocean City for $15 dollars," said Gillian.
In fact, a season badge will end up costing you $5 dollars less than two weekly badges. Of course, you could head to the Wildwoods, where the beaches are free.
"We have award winning, clean safe beaches here and we certainly look forward to people coming down and enjoying them," said North Wildwood Mayor, William Henfey.
And keep an eye out for the gold key program. If your hotel participates, your room key becomes your ticket to money off restaurants and more.
And if you see an attraction rack, don't pass it up.
Pop in any hotel lobby and you're likely to find discounts on everything from jet skiing to fishing trips.
And make sure you pick up your coupon books in Wildwood too. You can get them at the visitors center or request one online.
Also, check in with your favorite shore town. Many of them are offering free events all summer long.
RELATED LINKS:
Ocean City
Wildwood
Boardwalk Bucks
Long Beach Island
Avalon
Stone Harbor
Sea Isle
Atlantic City
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