Two Mile Landing
Wildwood Crest, NJ
Photo courtesy Carl Schuetrumpf

Leaning against the Two Mile Landing sign, this crusty old salt looks like he has been waiting a long time for someone to bring him a plate of crabs. Dressed in his old foul-weather gear, the weathered sea captain stands along Ocean Drive just south of Wildwood Crest. He is one of the last roadside sights before the toll bridge leading toward Cape May.

The life-sized fisherman was positioned beside the directional sign to point hungry travelers toward the docks. He looks right at home among the fishing boats, marshes and drawbridges along this stretch of the Jersey Shore. The company that made the old fellow is unknown, although similar fiberglass fishermen once stood outside seafood restaurants, marinas and bait shops up and down the coast.

Two Mile Landing is actually a pair of waterfront restaurants sharing the same marina. The Crab House is the casual side, known for blue claw crabs and outdoor dining. The neighboring 2 Mile Restaurant and Bar offers steaks, pasta and seafood in a slightly more formal setting. Both are operated by a local commercial fishing family with boats working out of the marina.

Two Mile Landing
Wildwood Crest, NJ
Photo courtesy Carl Schuetrumpf

Over the years, the property has grown into quite a summer stop with outdoor decks, several bars and live music. There is plenty happening down by the water, but the old captain leaning against the highway sign remains the first character most travelers meet. He may look a little grumpy, but that is probably what years of salt air will do.

UPDATE: Two Mile Landing Restaurants and Marina remains open at 1 Fish Dock Road in Lower Township, using a Wildwood Crest mailing address. The old sea captain and roadside sign survive near the Ocean Drive bridge. 08-26