This weekend at Wildplay Jones Beach, I found out three things:
- I’m braver than I thought.
- My boyfriend’s kids are as fearless as their dad.
- Screaming mid-high jump is completely normal (and oddly therapeutic).
Let me paint the scene: a sunny, salty-aired day at Jones Beach, perfect for lounging with your toes in the sand. But instead of towels and tanning oil, we strapped into harnesses and climbed at least 50 feet into the air to tackle the WildPlay Classic Adventure Course. Because obviously, who needs relaxation when you can battle wobbly bridges and swinging logs while questioning every life decision?
TL;DR: Recap video at the bottom!
Phase One: Confidence (and maybe overconfidence)
We started strong. The boys, ages 14 & 8, but clearly auditioning for the next American Ninja Warrior Junior, dashed up the first set of obstacles like it was child’s play (which, okay, technically it was). My boyfriend followed, nonchalantly, like it was a cake walk. And then there was me, clipping in, breathing deep, and then whispering “f*ck it, let’s do this!”
Spoiler alert: I froze up at some point cos why was I so high up with just a tiny rope to hold onto?
Phase Two: The Realization This Ain’t No Playground
The Classic Course has three levels, each one higher, wobblier, and more “are-you-kidding-me” than the last. By Level 2, my calves were shaking, my hands were blistering, and the boys were shouting encouraging things like, “You got this!” and “Don’t look down!” (also, things like “you’re moving so slow” but hey, I eventually got into a rhythm)
Every obstacle felt like a trust fall with myself: the tightropes, swinging wooden steps, and especially the Tarzan ropes. At one point, my boyfriend almost did a full accidental split trying to land a platform. I wish I could say I was sympathetic, but I was too busy laughing to offer any real help.
Phase Three: The High Jump Finale
After facing what felt like every fear I had (heights, wobbly things, judgment from children), we reached the high jump, the literal and emotional payoff. There is nothing like free falling (trusting this rope you’re attached to) and just jumping off the ledge, so many feet up from the ground. After a few moments of hesitation, and some encouragement from the guide and my boyfriend, I did it. I jumped.
Phew!
By the end, we were sweaty, slightly bruised, and completely exhilarated. We high-fived like we had just finished a team sport (which honestly, it kind of was), and I proudly accepted my honorary membership into the “Adventure Fam.”
Final Thoughts
WildPlay isn’t just about climbing stuff. It’s about courage, connection, and letting go, sometimes quite literally. It challenged us, bonded us, and gave us a shared story that we’ll laugh about for a long time.
So if you’re thinking about going? Do it. Bring your favorite daredevils, leave your fear on the ground, and get ready to swing, scream, and soar your way through a day you won’t forget.
Book your adventure course today!
Bonus Tips:
- Wear sneakers and clothes you can move in (this isn’t the time for fashion statements). Oh, and no hats, they’ll fly off.
- No need to bring water, they have conveniently placed water stations throughout.
- And bring a good attitude. You’ll need that too, especially when an 8-year-old beats you to the top. 😅
Next stop for us? Maybe skydiving. Or… maybe just ice cream. Probably ice cream.