By Melanie Bodner onGuide, Spring, Summer
Shore season is here, and Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk checks off all the family-friendly boxes— games and rides, long stretches of beach, food stands with local seafood and treats (hello, ice cream), and a place where you can freshen up after a hot day—making it one of the most popular beaches on the Jersey Shore. And while Jenkinson’s Boardwalk and Aquarium are the main draws, you’ll find a lot for your family to do on and off the boards for a day trip or week-long vacation. Thinking of heading there this summer? Read on for everything about the Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk and Jenks (as locals affectionately call it) and what to know before you go. (featured image of the Point Pleasant Beach boardwalk)
Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk Things To Do
There’s something about those palm trees on the beach at Point Pleasant Beach.
Catch some rays at Jenkinson’s Beach off of the Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk
First, get your bearings—the Point Pleasant Beach boardwalk and shoreline extend from the Manasquan Inlet to the north (a great place to watch the boats come in) and New Jersey Avenue to the south. The off-season is free to stake a spot in the sand but come Memorial Day, Jenkinson’s Beach requires a daily beach badge or a half or full-season badge. Unlike other shore beaches, Jenks has excellent facilities, letting you rent beach chairs, beach umbrellas, and lounge chairs without lugging them from home. And good news for the daytrippers that want to stay all day and night—there are two bathhouses to rinse off, use the restroom, and change, including the Pavilion Bathhouse (available on weekdays and weekends) and the Jenkinson’s South Bath House. During the season, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk hosts several kid-friendly activities on weekends, like kiddie shows, movies on the beach, fireworks, and posts info on their website and social media pages.
Sittin’ pretty on the Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk.
Stroll the boards on the Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk
The Jenkinson’s boardwalk is about a mile long with a kid’s paradise of games, rides, and sugary treats, giving kids plenty to do (and tire them out for a sleepy car ride home). Test your skills at the arcade offering the latest video games, take a ride on the Moby Dick at Jenkinson’s Amusement Park, or win a plushie playing traditional boardwalk games like water balloons. If you’re up for a family game, stop by Castaway Cove Adventure Golf or see if you can find your way through Jenkinson’s Boardwalk Fun House. Along the way, stopping by these boardwalk food stands is a must—load up on treats at Jenkinson’s Sweet Shop (don’t forget to try the fudge or candy apples), or taste some taffy at Carousel Candies, ice cream at Inlet Ice Cream or try the unique Dippin’ Dots. If you are looking for food and some adult treats, grab a burger at Little Mac’s, pizza at Joey Tomato’s, or lobster at the Boardwalk Bar & Grill, where you can sip on a pina colada while enjoying the spectacular sea views.
You can’t miss the waving penguin at Jenkinson’s Aquarium.
Dive into Jenkinson’s Aquarium at the Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk
Need a break from the sun? Jenkinson’s Aquarium is a top spot on our NJMOM Aquarium Guide and the perfect place to cool off. The two-story aquarium has marine exhibits designed to emphasize the importance of wildlife conservation with Atlantic sharks, Pacific sharks, coral reefs, penguins, and seals. View the sharks in their 58,000-gallon tank or see them overhead on the Shark Balcony, get playful with Luseal, the blind seal who’s a local aquarium celebrity, talk to the parrots, or explore the Pine Barrens. Meet Elmer, Kringle, Betty, and the other friendly penguins at Jenkinson’s Aquarium during the adopt-a-penguin program. But perhaps the biggest highlight is Wally, the adorable two-toed sloth who hangs out on a branch and entertains kids for hours. See him when you sign up to participate in The Scoop on Sloths program or reserve a Sloth Encounter. And Jenkinson’s Aquarium on the Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk is always a crowd-pleaser, which is why many families love coming here whenever they visit the shore.
Jenkinson’s Amusement Park is full of high-flying fun.
Take a ride at Jenkinson’s Amusement Park
From toddlers taking their first amusement ride to teens and adults who want thrills, Jenkinson’s South Amusement Park has something for everyone. Let your little ones soar up high on the mini planes, float on the cute ring of boats, or take a spin on the Samba Balloons. Then the whole family can hop on the carousel and board a train ride afterward. Are your older kiddos looking for more of a thrill? Try out the Starship 3000, feel the pendulum motion on Pendolo, or take the 50-foot tall Pirate Plunge. If your family likes to be active, test your skills and balance on the two-level Adventure Lookout Ropes Course and Zipline. Or get out your thrills at the 7D Dark Ride with 3D vision, sound, and movement featuring either a zombie or carnival-themed movie. Insider tip: If you purchase an Emusement card, you can also earn rewards with Jenkinson’s E-rewards program.
The Point Pleasant Boardwalk arcades have classics like skee ball or modern games for all ages to enjoy.
Win at the arcade on the boardwalk
Go old school and have your kids learn the finer points of skee ball—Jenkinson’s has several arcades lined up and down the boardwalk, including Jenkinson’s South Arcade, Pavilion Arcade, South Beach Arcade, and Frank’s Fun Center. See if you can score baskets on the basketball arcade game or grab a prize with the crane game, along with the latest video games. Kids will love playing for hours and winning tickets they can redeem for prizes afterward.
Ahoy matey—test your putt-putt skills at the Castaway Cove mini-golf course.
Test your putting skills with mini golf
A round of mini-golf fires up friendly family competition and can get even the littlest players well-deserved bragging rights. There are two major ones on the Point Pleasant Boardwalk, with courses appealing to beginners and pros. Discover Castaway Cove on the upper part, where the legend says the Wheeler family was shipwrecked and used the remains of their ship to create two fun mini-golf adventures. The most challenging course takes you through waterfalls and caves, and when you discover the crow’s nest at the top of the cove, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views. Down the boards, the Lighthouse Point Mini Golf course is on the southern end of Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, with a lighthouse and two 18-hole courses that offer lots of land-themed fun to play on.
Find lots of shops and restaurants off the boards in downtown Point Pleasant Beach.
Explore the quaint town of Point Pleasant Beach
Off the boardwalk, downtown Point Pleasant Beach is full of interesting shops and eateries. Find something unique at Stella e Luna or stock up on beach day essentials at Bain’s Point Hardware. For seafood specialties, grab a table at The Patio Bar, The Shrimp Box, or The Wharfside—these are all fantastic options offering lobster and local catch and sometimes live music. Or, if you’re thinking of a sunset picnic (yes, please), head to the OG Jersey Mike’s subs or the famous Joe Leone’s Italian Specialities & Catering for a true on-the-beach feast.
For more information, visit the Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk website or Jenkinson’s website.
What are your favorite Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk activities? Let us know!
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FAQs
Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk and Jenkinson's: A Family-Friendly Beach Day? ›
For family-friendly beachside fun, it's hard to beat Point Pleasant Beach. The expansive beach is kept crystal clean, and the Boardwalk is great for kids (of any age) with dozens of rides along with games of chance, some of the most competitive miniature golf at the beach and Jenkinson's Aquarium.
Is Point Pleasant Beach good for kids? ›For family-friendly beachside fun, it's hard to beat Point Pleasant Beach. The expansive beach is kept crystal clean, and the Boardwalk is great for kids (of any age) with dozens of rides along with games of chance, some of the most competitive miniature golf at the beach and Jenkinson's Aquarium.
How long is the boardwalk at Jenkinson? ›Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk (AKA Jenkinson's Boardwalk) is one of the most family-friendly boardwalks in New Jersey. This one-mile-long boardwalk along the beach has a great selection of arcade games, rides, batting cages, frozen custards, candy shops, eateries, and more.
What is the difference between Point Pleasant and Point Pleasant Beach? ›Point Pleasant Beach is home to the beach, the Boardwalk and an old fashioned downtown that dates back to the 19th Century, while Point Pleasant Boro is more of a bedroom community with sizable neighborhoods and a strong fishing industry.
How long is the boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach? ›The borough's boardwalk is approximately one mile long, spanning the coastline from the Manasquan Inlet at the north to New Jersey Avenue in the south.
Which beach in Nice is best for kids? ›Ruhl beach and Les Canailles are reliably kid-friendly. Best is Li Rateta, a sandy beach maintained by the city especially for kids 6-12 years old. There's supervised swimming in a pool plus a variety of watersports, beach soccer, beach volleyball, trampolines, frisbee and other organised games.
Is Point Pleasant a free beach? ›Point Pleasant Beach, NJ Beach Information. Point Pleasant Beach has both public access and private beaches. The southern end of town is comprised of a public access beach. There is a small fee to get on the beach and lifeguards are present form 9-5 each day.
What time are Point Pleasant Beach fireworks? ›Point Pleasant Beach Fireworks Show
Time: 9:30 p.m.
There are several parking lots on the main road parallel to the beach charging from $5 to $20 depending on weekday or weekend. The town lot is all metered and you pay at a central machine by cash or credit card. Rate is $2.25 per hour daytime and up in the evening. Beach charge around $8 .
How much does it cost to get on Point Pleasant Beach? ›Check the status and crowds on the following Point Pleasant Beach webcams. Daily-Weekdays- $4 (ages 5-11) $13 (age 12-adult). Weekends – $5 (ages 5-11) $14 (ages 12-adult). Children under 5 are free.
How crowded is Point Pleasant Beach? ›
Size and type of crowd -- In the summer months, Point Pleasant is completely overrun with daytrippers and beach home-renting vacationers. The beach itself near Martell's Tiki Bar or the Jenkinson's theme park area is PACKED, even on weekdays. Get there very early if you want a decent spot near the surf.
Can you bring coolers on Point Pleasant Beach? ›Cooler Policy: At the request of the Borough of Point Pleasant Beach, absolutely no coolers larger than 13 inches in width, length or height will be permitted on the beach. A friendly reminder, all coolers will be checked before accessing the beach. Tent Policy: No tents are allowed on the beach.
Do you have to pay to park at Point Pleasant Beach? ›Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk,
The municipal parking lot is metered and a quarter buys you 20 minutes. There are also a few private pay lots that charge from $4.00 to $12.00 depending on the crowds and the time of year. You will find metered parking on Ocean Avenue and a few adjacent streets.
A Stroll Down the Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk
People have been walking the boardwalk at Point Pleasant Beach for over 100 years. The first boardwalk here was put in place in 1890. It was promptly washed out to sea 1892.
Who doesn't love to walk on the beach in the early morning or evening? Not here you can't! Nobody is allowed on the beach unless during the open hours (8AM - 7PM) and God forbid you go on without paying!
How long of a walk is Point Pleasant park? ›Park visitors can enjoy:
39km of easy, criss-crossing trails.
- Meet Autumn.
- Timing is essential.
- Protect yourself from the elements.
- Bring a cooler with hydrating snacks.
- Prepare the night before.
- Play with your kids!
- Bring activities, but not many.
- Explore & make friends.
- Sunscreen. Sunscreen is quite possibly the most important item to pack! ...
- Bathing Suit. Make sure that you are water ready with the right swim gear! ...
- Towels. Once the fun is done, you need a way to dry off. ...
- Sunglasses. ...
- Water Shoes. ...
- Change of Sun Safe Clothing. ...
- Plenty of Water. ...
- Food and Snacks for the Beach.
- Playing Games.
- Discovering Shells.
- Playing in the Sand.
- Rock Pool Fun.
- Beach Scavenger Hunt.
- Pebble Art.
- Flying a Kite.
- Making a Seaside Scrapbook.
Daily: $9 weekdays, $10 weekends and holidays, $3 daily for children, free for children 4 and younger. Season rates include access to beach and bathhouse. Ramp to the beach and wheelchair available. Group rates available.
Does Point Pleasant have parking? ›
Parking fees are in effect in Point Pleasant Beach from March 1st thru October 31st 7 days a week. WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE TRAIN STATION LOT, WHICH IS IN EFFECT May 15th- September 15th.
Is Point Pleasant Beach hours? ›Daily operating hours at the oceanfront during the operating season shall be as follows, except during inclement weather: 1. Saturday, Sunday and Holidays: 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. 2. Monday to Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Page 2 3.
Where can I watch fireworks in Point Pleasant? ›- What: Brick SummerFest. Where: Windward Beach Park, Princeton Avenue. When: 6:30 p.m., June 30. ...
- What: Jenkinson's Independence Day Fireworks. Where: Boardwalk, Point Pleasant Beach. ...
- What: Lavallette Patriotic Concert and Fireworks. Where: Lavallette Gazebo, Bay Boulevard.
September 16 @ 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
The rain date for this event is September 17, 2023.
Event Navigation
Seaside will host the 4th of July Fireworks Celebration, one of the largest fireworks shows on the West Coast. The festivities start at dusk, which is about 10:00pm.
Jenkinson's Boardwalk. Point Pleasant Beach, NJ.
How long does it take to go through Jenkinson's Aquarium? ›It takes about 1 1/2-2 hours to explore the aquarium, depending on your interest level and ages of little ones in your party. Jenkinson's is smaller than Adventure Aquarium in Camden, NJ. If you want to learn about sea lions, watch a feeding, explore touch tank animals, you will spend 2 hours visiting. Have fun!
Can you walk dogs on Point Pleasant boardwalk? ›Please note that dogs are not permitted on the boardwalk at any time. Sea Girt Beach offers picturesque views of the Atlantic and the historic lighthouse. This beautiful beach in Sea Girt, NJ allows leashed dogs on the beach from October-March. Please note that dogs are not permitted on the boardwalk at any time.
What is the cleanest beach in NJ? ›Sea Girt Beach is one of the most private beaches you'll find in New Jersey. Because of that, it's also one of the cleanest you'll find in the area with plenty of space to spread out. Just keep in mind that no eating, drinking, or playing music is allowed – only ball-playing in designated areas.
Do you need a beach badge for Point Pleasant Beach? ›No one will be admitted to the beach without a daily wristband or season badge once the beach gates are closed for the day. Cooler Policy: At the request of the Borough of Point Pleasant Beach, absolutely no coolers larger than 13 inches in width, length or height will be permitted on the beach.
Does Point Pleasant Beach have bathrooms? ›
The beach is open every day from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Lifeguards are on duty from 9:30 am until 5:30pm. There are two bath houses (bathrooms and changing rooms) on the boardwalk.
What is the least crowded public beach in NJ? ›- Sunset Beach, Cape May County.
- Seven Mile Island, Cape May County. ...
- Lavallette, Ocean County. ...
- Avon-by-the-Sea, Monmouth County. ...
- Sandy Hook, Monmouth County. Sandy Hook is the first official beach of the Jersey Shore coastline. ...
No alcololic beverages or illegal substances on the beach at any time. No animals permitted at any time.
Does Point Pleasant allow food? ›No littering on the beach or boardwalk. No selling food or drinks without a license. No loud noise or music or profane or indecent language. No alcohol or glass containers or bottles.
How cold is the water at Point Pleasant Beach? ›Jenkinsons (Point Pleasant) sea water temperatures peak in the range 22 to 24°C (72 to 75°F) on around the 9th of August and are at their coldest on about the 1st of March, in the range 1 to 4°C (34 to 39°F). Jenkinsons (Point Pleasant) sea water temperatures are always warm reach their warmest in early to mid August.
Is parking free at the point? ›AED 20 for the first hour after that you'll be charged. AED 10 for any additional hour.
Does boardwalk have rides? › Can I rent umbrellas at Point Pleasant Beach? ›
Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent.
Does Point Pleasant have a Ferris wheel? ›One of the more unique aspects of Jenkinson's in Point Pleasant is their boardwalk aquarium. Right next to the Ferris wheel and roller coasters is a full-sized aquarium!
What ocean is Point Pleasant Beach? ›A family seashore town, Point Pleasant Beach lives up to its name with a mile long boardwalk bordering the Atlantic Ocean that is home to Jenkinson's Boardwalk Amusements, a fun house, a Victorian Ice Cream Parlor, four arcades, gift shops and games of chance.
Does Point Pleasant Beach have palm trees? ›
Jersey Shore Hurricane News contributors sometimes submit sunrise photos from Point Pleasant Beach, where there are palm trees on Jenkinson's Beach.
How big is Point Pleasant Beach? › How long is the Green Point Reserve walk? ›...
Green Point Foreshore.
| Location: | Belmont |
|---|---|
| Type: | Linear |
| Distance: | 7Km |
| Grade Level: | Easy |
| Start Point: | Car park at the Shores Way, Belmont |
Explore this 3.6-mile loop trail near West Vancouver, British Columbia. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 57 min to complete. This is a very popular area for birding and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring.
Who owns Point Pleasant Park? ›Point Pleasant Park is owned by the British government under the administration of the Minister of the Department of Canadian Heritage and is leased to Halifax Regional Municipality for a ceremonial 1 shilling per year. The original lease for the land was negotiated by Sir William Young in 1866.
Can you swim at Point Pleasant Beach? ›Manasquan River Beaches - Borough of Point Pleasant
The river beaches are open from mid June to Labor Day, with lifeguards on duty daily from 9AM to 5PM.
- Marina Park Playground and beach.
- Treasure Island Beach.
- Mother's Beach.
- Aliso Beach Park.
- Balboa Island.
Great Ocean Road
The protected sandy beaches at Torquay, Anglesea, Aireys Inlet, Point Roadknight, Lorne and Apollo Bay are ideal for swimming and popular beaches for families. Further along the Great Ocean Road you'll find safe swimming spots at Port Campbell, Warrnambool and Port Fairy.
Check the status and crowds on the following Point Pleasant Beach webcams. Daily-Weekdays- $4 (ages 5-11) $13 (age 12-adult). Weekends – $5 (ages 5-11) $14 (ages 12-adult). Children under 5 are free.
How much is parking at Jenkinson's Boardwalk? ›There are several parking lots on the main road parallel to the beach charging from $5 to $20 depending on weekday or weekend. The town lot is all metered and you pay at a central machine by cash or credit card. Rate is $2.25 per hour daytime and up in the evening. Beach charge around $8 .
Can you bring coolers to Point Pleasant Beach? ›
Cooler Policy: At the request of the Borough of Point Pleasant Beach, absolutely no coolers larger than 13 inches in width, length or height will be permitted on the beach. A friendly reminder, all coolers will be checked before accessing the beach. Tent Policy: No tents are allowed on the beach.
Why is Newport Beach so popular? ›Newport Beach is known for its beaches and its large harbor. The Newport Beach boundaries also encompass Balboa Island and Fun Zone, and Corona Del Mar.
What is the nicest area of Newport Beach? ›1. Corona Del Mar. Known for being the “Crown of the Sea,” Corona del Mar is one of the best neighborhoods in Newport Beach. This area is a delightful mixture of vibrant and relaxed, making it the best place to live in Newport Beach, California.
Why take the kids to the beach? ›The beach provides a unique environment for them to explore and have many different types of learning experiences. Younger kids love to play in the sand, build sandcastles and fill buckets with water. They can even swim in the shallow water. This is good for their motor skills, coordination and problem-solving skills.
What age is a child at beaches resorts? ›From the smallest newborn to those up to 24 months, your baby is in the very best hands at Beaches. Luxurious, climate-controlled nurseries-filled with cribs, strollers, high chairs, rocking chairs and everything your little one could ever need await to cradle them in the very lap of luxury.
Is Ocean Grove good for kids? ›Ocean Grove is a natural playground for kids with lots of things to keep everyone happy all year round.
Is Ocean Grove beach good for kids? ›Ocean Grove Main Beach is renowned as one of the safest family surf beaches in Victoria.
Is Coconut Grove good for families? ›Home to grand historic homes and beautiful public parks, Coconut Grove offers families a wide variety of attractions in Miami's most historic neighborhood.