Most beaches have boardwalks consisting of wide wooden walk areas with amusement parks, saltwater taffy stores and restaurants. The Fine Living Network called Atlantic City "America's most famous boardwalk" and selected it as one of the top 10 in the country. The Travel Channel and Forbes Magazine also named it among America's best. Other than the casinos, the strip has family-friendly arcades and restaurants. There's no need to walk---take a Rolling Chair ride. People push you from one end to the other while you relax on a chair on wheels under a canopy. For a serious landmark, the New Jersey Korean War Memorial has statues and names of the deceased.
Seaside Heights gained fame as the location for MTV summer shows in 1998 and 2002. The boardwalk features two piers stretching out with rides and food.
Atlantic City offers more than just a chance to win a stuffed animal. Through legalized gambling, you have 12 casinos to choose from. Try to win a fortune by playing classic games like poker, blackjack and roulette.
Swimming may seem obvious for a beach area, but that isn't always the case. In Cape Town, South Africa, for example, the ocean is too cold to swim in. But the Jersey Shore is perfect for a dip, whether it's Avalon or Point Pleasant. For less commercial beaches, head to Belmar, Manasquan or Spring Lake.
Go to almost any beach, and you'll see people panning the sand with a metal detector trying to find a buried fortune. In Cape May, quartz crystal actually washes up on the shore. It sparkles like real diamonds after getting cut and faceted. You could also find sharks teeth, black quartz and Indian arrowheads.
Surfer Magazine named Ocean City as the 10th best surfer town in the country. The magazine's criteria were waves, culture and quality of life. Ocean City has it all, with an expansive boardwalk, consistent waves and a no-alcohol policy.
Who doesn't find babies cute? They're on display during Wildwood's annual Baby Parade held on the boardwalk in August. The event, which started in 1909, features babies and larger toddlers in decorated strollers and floats. The most attractive boy and girl are named. Other categories include best float.
For something a little less mainstream, check out the Weird Contest Week in Ocean City in mid-August. Events include a wet T-shirt throwing contest and a saltwater taffy sculpting contest.
