6 Boardwalks In NJ To Check Out This Summer (2023)

By Laura Adams Stiansen onGuide, Summer, Things To Do, Travel

(Video) New Jersey Boardwalks - Atlantic City, Wildwood, Cape May - Top 5 Boardwalks in New Jersey


What’s better than spending a warm summer night hitting the boards at one of the famous boardwalks in NJ? With the oldest boardwalk in the country (hello, Atlantic City), jaw-dropping rides, sounds of joy, and delicious, only-on-the-boardwalk food, going to one of the boardwalks in NJ is an experience that stays with you long after you leave the shore. A visit to one always signals the start of summer, and this year, visiting all 6 beaches with boardwalks in New Jersey is high on our summer bucket list. Scroll down for what you can expect to find at these seaside hot spots. And while you are at the boardwalk, don’t forget to get your 2023 Beach Badge. (featured image taken at Morey’s Piers Boardwalk in Wildwood, New Jersey)

Boardwalks in NJ that you won’t want to miss

6 Boardwalks In NJ To Check Out This Summer (4)

There is a mile of fun on the Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk, one of the most popular boardwalks in NJ. Photo taken at the Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk

6 Boardwalks In NJ To Check Out This Summer (5)

Point Pleasant Beach NJ Boardwalk
Located on Point Pleasant Beach, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk isn’t as long as some other boardwalks in NJ, but it offers just as much family fun. At the north end is Jenkinson’s Aquarium, which celebrates years of educating the public on marine life through its exhibits and programs featuring penguins, seals, and more. Some dining and drink options are outside the aquarium doors, including late-night fun (or day, if you wish) at Jenks Club and Martell’s Tiki Bar. But the big deal here is the rides, with plenty of options for smaller kids and thrilling slides and coasters for bigger kids. Enjoy the newer Adventure Lookout ropes course and 7D Dark Ride, an interactive ride that tests your skills fighting carnival creatures or zombies. If your kids crave video games, slot machines, crane games, and skeeball, there are four locations to enjoy. There is also a funhouse, batting cages, two mini-golf courses, and, of course, more boardwalk games up and down the boardwalk for the whole family.
300 Ocean Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742

(Video) Seaside Heights New Jersey Boardwalk 2022 [4K]

6 Boardwalks In NJ To Check Out This Summer (6)

The Boardwalk in Wildwoods has over 100 rides and attractions. Photo taken at Morey’s Piers

Boardwalk in Wildwood New Jersey
It’s technically called The Wildwoods, but if you’re from NJ, you call it Wildwood. And there’s something for everyone on its 38 blocks—more than 100 rides and attractions, including three beachfront waterparks, arcades, classic boardwalk games, mini-golf, go-carts, escape rooms, and unique dining, including breakfast in a 156-foot Ferris wheel at Morey’s Piers. Want to get in some exercise while you’re there? Cyclists can take a scenic bike route the entire length of the 5-mile island or sign up for a beach yoga class. There’s also a Doo Wop Museum and Neon Sign Garden showcasing a mix of design, music, and pop culture that you have to see to believe (it’s a flashback to Wildwood in the 1950s and 60s). Upcoming events include the Wildwoods International Kite Festival, Downtown Farmers Market, Yoga On The Beach, and Barefoot Country Music Fest.
Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ 08260

6 Boardwalks In NJ To Check Out This Summer (7)

The Asbury Park Boardwalk is a mix of fresh sea air and a little bit of rock n’ roll. Photo taken at the Asbury Park Boardwalk

6 Boardwalks In NJ To Check Out This Summer (8)

(Video) Most summer rentals at Jersey Shore have been snapped up

Asbury Park NJ Boardwalk
Made famous by rock n’ roll legend (and New Jersey resident) Bruce Springsteen, Asbury Park has its share of historical buildings alongside trendy hotels, restaurants, and bars. Today, you can walk around the 5,000-square-foot historic waterfront Carousel Building or grab a drink at Wonder Bar during the dog-friendly Yappy Hour – look for the iconic mural of Tillie, and you’re in the right place. Play a round of mini-golf at Asbury Eighteen, cool off at the water-themed playground at Asbury Splash Park, or test your pinball skills at Silverball Museum, featuring over 6,000 pinball games from the 1950s to today. And let’s not forget the music—catch a concert at the Convention Hall, Paramount Theatre, or see the legendary rock club, The Stone Pony. This year, bonfires on the beach are back on different nights throughout the summer. After exploring this unique boardwalk in NJ, visit the downtown, one of our favorites in NJ.
Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ 07712

6 Boardwalks In NJ To Check Out This Summer (9)

Saltwater Taffy, shops, and the sea line the Ocean City Boardwalk in New Jersey. Photo Credit: istock/Vladone

Ocean City Boardwalk in New Jersey
With the slogan: America’s Greatest Family Resort, this boardwalk delivers two amusement parks—Gillian’s Wonderland Pier (at the northern end) and Playland’s Castaway Cove (in the middle of the boardwalk), offering a wide selection of rides for kids of all ages, with a water park between the two. You’ll also find Jilly’s Arcade, plenty of mini-golf options, go-kart rides, escape rooms, and shopping. For food, stop by Shriver’s to get a glimpse of candy-makers twirling saltwater taffy and stand in line for a slice from the famous Manco & Manco Pizza (definitely worth the wait). Ocean City Music Pier hosts a summer concert series at the height of the season, with performers this year including Kristen Chenoweth, Kimber Sprawl, Michael James Scott, and more.
Ocean Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 08226

6 Boardwalks In NJ To Check Out This Summer (10)

Established in the 1800s as a health resort, Atlantic City has high-rise hotels and casinos, the famous Steel Pier, and the oldest boardwalk in NJ. Photo Credit: istock/Vladone

Atlantic City NJ Boardwalk
Most people go to AC to gamble, but the 168-year-old Atlantic City boardwalk is the oldest and longest in America, and you should see it at least once. You can still ride on a rolling chair (the OG way to see the boards in 1880) and go past the casinos to Central Pier Arcade & Speedway. Then head to Steel Pier, the oldest themed amusement park (since 1890) with lots of thrills, including the iconic Wheel, offering sweeping views of AC beaches. New this summer is an indoor and outdoor waterpark at the Showboat Hotel that is just steps off the boardwalk with a retractable roof and beach views. And no visit to AC is complete without stopping by Lucy the Elephant, a National Historic Landmark named “The World’s Largest Elephant” structure.
Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

(Video) Virginia Beach Summer Boardwalk and Beach Tour | Better Than Expected 4k

6 Boardwalks In NJ To Check Out This Summer (11)

The Seaside Heights boardwalk is full of rides, mini-golf, food, games, and fun for all ages. Photo taken at the Seaside Heights boardwalk

Seaside Heights NJ Boardwalk
Kelly Clarkson sang, “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,” which is the case with Seaside Heights boardwalk. In 2012, Hurricane Sandy damaged the boardwalk and destroyed the southern amusement ride area (you may remember the iconic photo of the Jet Star roller coaster floating in the Atlantic Ocean). Then in 2013, a large fire broke out, damaging 50 businesses and the pier, but thankfully, Seaside has recovered, and it’s better than ever. The 2-mile boardwalk has Casino Pier at the northern end, offering rides for littles and bigs, go-karts, miniature golf, food stands, games, and five arcades. After all the fun, you’re sure to work up an appetite, and you’ll have your choice of boardwalk food faves—from The Beachcomber Bar & Grill and Spicy Catina Restaurant to Kohr’s and The Sawmill (for the largest pizza slice ever) at the southern end of the boardwalk. Want to cool off but not in the ocean? Breakwater Beach Waterpark is across the street from Casino Pier with waterslides and a wave pool, or check out the bayside and don’t miss Bill’s Boat Rentals, a hidden gem at the Jersey Shore. Spend the night with the fam this summer and catch the different movies on the beach.
Ocean Terrace, Seaside Heights, NJ 08751

Which Boardwalks in NJ are your favorite?

Become an NJMOM Insider!For all the best things to do with your family around New Jersey, be sure tosign up for our weekly newsletter delivered right to your inbox each week, and don’t forget to tag your photos#NJMOM and@njmomfor a chance to be featured on our social media.

6 Boardwalks In NJ To Check Out This Summer (12)


(Video) Seaside Heights Boardwalk Tour - Best Things to See and Do - Seaside Heights NJ Boardwalk

FAQs

6 Boardwalks In NJ To Check Out This Summer? ›

It's the world's first and longest Boardwalk.

What is the biggest boardwalk in NJ? ›

It's the world's first and longest Boardwalk.

What is the name of the famous boardwalk in New Jersey? ›

Point Pleasant Beach

The Point Pleasant Boardwalk offers an overload of must-see attractions along its one-mile.

How many boardwalks are in NJ? ›

All 18 boardwalks in New Jersey, ranked from worst to best - nj.com.

Which is better Seaside Heights or Point Pleasant? ›

I would definitely recommend Point Pleasant over Seaside Heights. Seaside is fun with a huge boardwalk, but is hectic and crowded. Getting around, parking, etc. is extremely difficult. Large groups of boisterous, largely unsupervised teens are a common sight at Seaside.

What is the most famous boardwalk? ›

Atlantic City Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ

Perhaps America's most famous boardwalk, the Atlantic City Boardwalk earned its place in pop culture thanks to the HBO hit Boardwalk Empire. Though its turn-of-the-century glory has faded, the nation's first boardwalk now stretches more than 4 miles along the coastline.

What is the most famous boardwalk in the US? ›

1. Venice Beach Boardwalk | Venice Beach, CA. The two-mile Venice Beach Boardwalk, also known as Ocean Front Walk, is flanked by the beach on one side and restaurants and storefronts on the other side.

What is the oldest boardwalk in NJ? ›

Atlantic City, New Jersey, between 1905 and 1920. On June 26, 1870, the first section of the Atlantic City Boardwalk opened along the New Jersey beach. Dr.

What is the biggest beach boardwalk? ›

Atlantic City, New Jersey

It sports the longest boardwalk in the world, at 5.5 miles, and also the oldest, first offering visitors the chance to stroll the sand-free walkway in 1870.

What is the oldest boardwalk? ›

The Atlantic City Boardwalk was the first boardwalk in the United States, opening on June 26, 1870.

Which NJ Shore Town has a two mile boardwalk? ›

Seaside Park is a borough of Ocean County located next door to Seaside Heights. This boardwalk town is less than one square mile, but has two miles of shoreline to enjoy. Map of Seaside Park, NJ.

Is Wildwood or Ocean City better? ›

Ocean City is MUCH cleaner and nicer than Wildwood NJ...the boardwalk, beach, everything. I would recommend OC over Wildwood anyday! I used to live in Maryland but we spent summer vacations in Wildwood, NJ., also, Cape May. I went back to OC 2 years ago, Wildwood last year.

What boardwalk was Jersey Shore filmed in? ›

Of course, you can visit and hang out on the Seaside Heights boardwalk for yourself, running the whole length of the beach. Along the way, you'll be able to see the Jersey Shore house, Shore Store and many of the bars and clubs made famous by the show.

What is the nicest beach town in NJ? ›

Wildwood, NJ. Sandwiched between Cape May and Stone Harbor, Wildwood is another resort town on the New Jersey coast. Well-known for its wide, sandy beaches and a boardwalk jampacked with eateries, shops, waterparks, and thrill rides, Wildwood is more of the New Jersey Shore you may already be familiar with.

What's the cleanest beach in NJ? ›

Cape May's Diamond Beach is the cleanest beach in New Jersey, though Sea Girt and President's Beach are close contenders. This is due in part to controlled entry.

What is the top 10 boardwalks in the US? ›

10 Best Boardwalks In America, Ranked By Fun-Factor
  1. 1 Santa Monica Pier. View this post on Instagram.
  2. 2 Coney Island. View this post on Instagram. ...
  3. 3 Ocean City Boardwalk. ...
  4. 4 Ocean Front Walk. ...
  5. 5 Navy Pier. ...
  6. 6 Galveston's Historic Pleasure Pier. ...
  7. 7 Myrtle Beach Boardwalk And Promenade. ...
  8. 8 Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. ...
Nov 9, 2022

What beaches have boardwalks in NJ? ›

  • Ocean City Boardwalk. 1,897. Piers & Boardwalks. ...
  • Atlantic City Boardwalk. 5,646. Piers & Boardwalks. ...
  • Belmar Beach and Boardwalk. 462. Piers & Boardwalks • Beaches. ...
  • Jenkinson's Boardwalk. 873. Piers & Boardwalks. ...
  • Point Pleasant Beach. 757. ...
  • Playland's Castaway Cove. 331. ...
  • Seaside Heights Boardwalk. 227. ...
  • Spring Lake Boardwalk. 125.

Does Ocean City NJ have a boardwalk? ›

From miniature golf to renting a surfboard to hitting the arcade, our Boardwalk is well known for the variety of amusements, including our world famous park on the pier. When visiting Ocean City, patronizing our many attractions and amusements is an absolute must! Get the most out of your vacation on the Boardwalk!

What is the largest freshwater boardwalk? ›

The Beaver Boardwalk, world's longest freshwater boardwalk is a great family outing that showcases the local wetland system around Maxwell Lake.

What famous boardwalk has an amusement park? ›

Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, California, is filled with amusement park rides. Santa Monica's boardwalk, known for being the symbolic endpoint of Route 66, began as a tale of two piers. In 1909, the Santa Monica Municipal Pier opened to the public.

What city is home to America's first boardwalk? ›

Thousands of people know facts and trivia about New Jersey's history, but very few know that the Atlantic City boardwalk was the first boardwalk of its kind in the United States! Today, the boardwalk is known as a major tourist center, filled with casinos, live entertainment and restaurants.

What is the oldest beach town in NJ? ›

The City of Cape May, “The Nation's Oldest Seashore Resort,” is located at the southern tip of the Cape May Peninsula in New Jersey. The city is designated the Cape May Historic District, a National Historic Landmark due to its concentration of Victorian buildings.

What city is the boardwalk in NJ? ›

The Atlantic City Boardwalk is the backbone of this seaside resort city, providing access to hotels, resorts, shops, casinos and more. Stemming from the Atlantic City Boardwalk are several piers featuring a number of attractions and unique shopping venues.

Are there two boardwalks in New Jersey? ›

Ocean City: Considered the most family-friendly boardwalk. Wildwood: Known for having the most, and most thrilling, rides. Atlantic City: The oldest boardwalk in the state.

What is the longest floating boardwalk? ›

The Boardwalk is home to the country's longest floating boardwalk and connects East Lake Dr to West Lake Dr across the water. The entire boardwalk and trail is 4,313 feet long, a little under a mile. This park is perfect for enjoying nature while listening to the gentle sound of water.

What is the difference between a pier and a boardwalk? ›

While piers, by definition, stretch out over bodies of water, and boardwalks extend along marsh or sand, the two often go hand in hand. Stroll down memory lane with this collection of the best piers and boardwalks in each Southern state.

Why is it called a boardwalk? ›

The walkway of wooden planks was created so that visitors could walk along the beach without getting sand on their feet. And the boardwalk supposedly took its name not from the wooden boards but from the structure's designer, Alex Boardman.

How old is the Ocean City NJ boardwalk? ›

The boardwalk was first built in 1880 from the Second Street wharf to Fourth Street and West Avenue. In 1885, plans to extend the boardwalk along the entire beach were made as the city's first amusement house, a pavilion on the beach at 11th street called "The Excursion" opened.

How long is the boardwalk in Wildwood NJ? ›

Today, the Wildwoods Boardwalk has more than 70,000 wooden planks and stretches for nearly 2.5 miles.

Where is 7 mile beach NJ? ›

Seven Mile Island or Seven Mile Beach is the name of a barrier island on the Jersey Shore in Cape May County, New Jersey, United States. It is divided between the boroughs of Avalon to the north, from 6th to 80th Streets, and Stone Harbor to the south, from 80th Street to Hereford Inlet.

What is the abandoned shore town in NJ? ›

Sea Breeze is part of Fairfield Township and used to be a hot spot for tourists back in the day. NJ.com reported that it used to be a thriving beach resort town in the 19th century, but was soon destroyed after severe weather damage.

What Street in Ocean City NJ has the best beach? ›

1.) 9th Street

This beach is Ocean City's central location. Heading on to the island from the 9th Street Bridge, the street ends at this gorgeous beach that's truly in the heart of all the action. Although it's typically one of the most crowded beaches during the summer, it's also one of the most fun.

Which Ocean City is least crowded? ›

Midtown: Beaches from 27th to 62nd

The midtown area is less crowded and has its own charm: Favorite of locals. Fewer hotels and more condos. Home to many fabulous hotels with spectacular sunset views (on the bayside.)

Which is nicer Ocean City MD or NJ? ›

When it comes to Ocean City, Maryland, the main outside attraction is Assateague Island, a state park with beautiful beaches and wild horses. Ultimately, it comes down to this: Ocean City, New Jersey is America's Greatest Family Resort, and Ocean City, Maryland caters more to mature vacationers.

Is Ocean City NJ worth it? ›

Ocean City, New Jersey, is a popular vacation spot for many along the East Coast. In the summer months, the area is a lively place filled with visitors enjoying the many beaches and Boardwalk activities. With so many forms of entertainment, Ocean City is an excellent spot for a getaway with family or friends.

What restaurants did the Jersey Shore cast go to? ›

Club Karma (Seaside Heights, NJ)
  • Club Karma (Seaside Heights, NJ)
  • The Jersey Shore cast dropps in on Karma (401 Boulevard) often, especially during the show's third season. ...
  • The Bamboo Bar (Seaside Heights, NJ)
  • Beachcomber Bar and Restaurant (Seaside Heights, NJ)
  • Remember when Snooki got punched in the face?
Jul 13, 2011

Are any of the bars from Jersey Shore still open? ›

Spicy Cantina - Seaside Heights, NJ

This bar which is found right on the Seaside boardwalk was seen in some of the day drinking episodes. It's still open year-round!

What house did Jersey Shore stay in? ›

Jersey Shore MTV house still a big star in Seaside Heights, and you can tour or stay there. Like it or not, 1209 Ocean Terrace in Seaside Heights, aka the “Jersey Shore” house, is one of the most famous addresses in pop culture. And a lot of people do like it.

What is the least visited beach in NJ? ›

Pearl Beach

This secret New Jersey beach is located in Cape May and neighbors the more popular Sunset Beach. Though Pearl Beach doesn't have a boardwalk or utilities, it does have access to Pearl Avenue and is considered one of the least crowded beaches according to USA Today.

What is the least crowded public beach in NJ? ›

Here are five great quiet beaches along the Jersey Shore, in order from north to south:
  1. Sunset Beach, Cape May County.
  2. Seven Mile Island, Cape May County. ...
  3. Lavallette, Ocean County. ...
  4. Avon-by-the-Sea, Monmouth County. ...
  5. Sandy Hook, Monmouth County. Sandy Hook is the first official beach of the Jersey Shore coastline. ...
Jun 29, 2017

What is the most popular Jersey Shore beach? ›

Avalon is one of the most popular beach destinations on the Jersey Shore. Located on the 7 Mile Beach, Avalon boasts miles of white-sand beaches on the Atlantic Ocean that are great for swimming, boating, kayaking, and surfing.

What is the most polluted beach in NJ? ›

Barnegat Bay beaches: They top an environmental group list for the wrong reasons. Beaches around Barnegat Bay remain plagued by pollution and had more days of high bacteria levels than other ocean and bay beaches across New Jersey, according to a new report released Thursday.

What beach in NJ has no boardwalk? ›

Between Ocean City and Sea Isle City, you'll find Strathmere in Upper Township, offering a low-key, off-the-beaten-path beach experience. While there's no boardwalk, visitors can enjoy the natural splendor of this oceanfront escape.

What is the biggest beach in New Jersey? ›

The largest beach in NJ - Wildwood Beach
  • United States.
  • New Jersey (NJ)
  • Jersey Shore.
  • Cape May County.
  • Wildwood.
  • Wildwood - Things to Do.
  • Wildwood Beach.

Which beach has the biggest boardwalk? ›

Atlantic City, New Jersey

It sports the longest boardwalk in the world, at 5.5 miles, and also the oldest, first offering visitors the chance to stroll the sand-free walkway in 1870.

Is Atlantic City the biggest boardwalk? ›

Come Visit The World Famous Atlantic City Boardwalk |The Very First Boardwalk In The U.S.! The famous Jersey Shore attraction was also the very first and longest boardwalk to be built in the country. Originally it spanned over 7 miles but now it reaches a little over four miles long and five feet wide.

Which boardwalk is better Ocean City or Wildwood? ›

OC hands down over Wildwood. The boardwalk is so much nicer and family friendly. The beach is a lot shorter than Wildwoods. You may want to rent a house in OC there aren't many motels/hotels.

What state has the most famous boardwalk? ›

Boardwalks can be found around the world, but they are especially common along the East Coast of the United States. One of the earliest, the busiest, and perhaps the most prominently known boardwalk, was designed in New Jersey and opened June 26, 1870, in Atlantic City.

What is the largest boardwalk on the East Coast? ›

Atlantic City Boardwalk, New Jersey

First opened in 1870 and now spanning 5.5 miles, the Atlantic City Boardwalk is both the oldest in America and the longest in the world, garnering plenty of attention from East Coast visitors.

What is the world's longest floating boardwalk? ›

The Boardwalk is home to the country's longest floating boardwalk and connects East Lake Dr to West Lake Dr across the water. The entire boardwalk and trail is 4,313 feet long, a little under a mile. This park is perfect for enjoying nature while listening to the gentle sound of water.

Is it safe to walk on the Atlantic City Boardwalk at night? ›

Stay on the boardwalk Though the city is generally safe during the day, you shouldn't wander too far off the beaten path, especially after dark. Avoid walking behind the casinos and on the beach at night.

Why is Atlantic City so famous? ›

Located in South Jersey on Absecon Island, the city is prominently known for its casinos, nightlife, boardwalk, and Atlantic Ocean beaches and coastline. Atlantic City inspired the U.S. version of the board game Monopoly, which uses various Atlantic City street names and destinations in the game.

What is the least crowded beach in Ocean City NJ? ›

14th Street Beach provides shade from the blazing sun with the Fishing Pier, which is also an ideal place to take photos underneath. It's less crowded than 9th Street and the other beaches toward the center of the boardwalk, but still extremely close to everything the boardwalk has to offer.

How long can you ride on Ocean City boardwalk? ›

Bicycle riding on the Ocean City Boardwalk is generally permitted all day in the off-season. It is restricted to the hours between 5:00 AM and 12:00 PM between June 15th and September 3rd.

Do you have to pay to get on Wildwood boardwalk? ›

There is no Beach fee in the Wildwoods (North WildWood, Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest). Parking fees vary from different parking lot and times, also. You can park for free on some streets and if you're lucky enough have a short walk.

Can you drink alcohol on Wildwood boardwalk? ›

Boardwalk becomes alcohol-friendly

With the recent expansion of liquor licenses that include boardwalk businesses, Wildwood took full advantage of this opportunity to appeal to tourists of all ages. Alcoholic beverages will be served on the boardwalk between 10 a.m. and midnight.

Videos

1. @PaulWorldZoom - kick um while they're up kick em while they're down To Many PI's In The Philippines
(PhillyinthePhilippines)
2. Jersey Shore town uses predatory birds to control gulls on the beach and boardwalk
(NJ.com)
3. Seaside Heights New Jersey Boardwalk, Summertime, Near Beach, USA 2021, NJ, NY Walking 4K
(Walky - Walks & More)
4. 【4K】Walk Atlantic City Boardwalk New Jersey 4k video USA
(A Godar)
5. Boardwalk at Seaside Height, NJ
(Luhana journey)
6. Fun things to see on the Boardwalk at Ocean City, New Jersey
(Chris The Hobby Guy)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Cheryll Lueilwitz

Last Updated: 13/04/2023

Views: 6361

Rating: 4.3 / 5 (74 voted)

Reviews: 81% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Cheryll Lueilwitz

Birthday: 1997-12-23

Address: 4653 O'Kon Hill, Lake Juanstad, AR 65469

Phone: +494124489301

Job: Marketing Representative

Hobby: Reading, Ice skating, Foraging, BASE jumping, Hiking, Skateboarding, Kayaking

Introduction: My name is Cheryll Lueilwitz, I am a sparkling, clean, super, lucky, joyous, outstanding, lucky person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.