From the glitz of Atlantic City to the peaceful Spring Lake, New Jersey’s 130 miles of coastline host boardwalks of every kind. Thousands of visitors and residents enjoy the beaches and iconic wooden pathways of New Jersey’s boardwalks every summer. Whether you’re looking for romance, family-friendly activities or a high-end beach experience, New Jersey beaches have a boardwalk for you.
The world’s first and longest boardwalk, the plank promenade of Atlantic City was first laid in 1870 to cut down on the amount of sand brought into train cars and hotels from people’s shoes. Today, resort hotels, a busy boardwalk and beach parties characterize Atlantic City, which has five-star restaurants, live shows, rows and rows of bars and a strip of casinos. To get away from the bustle, take a walk along the beach or test out your skills with kayaking, parasailing, surfing or swimming.
The family-friendly Point Pleasant Beach is a far cry from beach parties. The beaches are clean and protected by lifeguards, and umbrellas and chairs are available to rent. On the boardwalk, you’ll find a mile of arcades, restaurants, bars and attractions. There’s a large aquarium, an amusement park, an arcade, three mini-golf courses and batting cages. Don’t miss the fresh saltwater taffy from one of the dozens of sweet shops.
Seaside Heights is one of the most visited beaches in New Jersey because of its action-packed boardwalk. On the mile-long boardwalk, you’ll find Funtown Piers amusement park as well as a popular casino. The rest of the boardwalk is lined with arcades, rides, shops and bars, many of which are open throughout the winter. The restaurants and food stands at Seaside Heights offer something for every taste, from pizza and sausage to cotton candy. The beach requires an admission, but it’s very clean and lifeguard protected, and chairs, umbrellas and rafts are available for rent.
Wildwood, near the southern tip of New Jersey, is known for its carnival atmosphere. A huge boardwalk that hosts more than 100 rides and attractions borders the wide beach. Five amusement piers and dozens of carnival-game stands, water parks and roller coasters are ready year-round for visitors. The 38 blocks of boardwalk are packed with shops, restaurants, bars and live-entertainment venues, which draw large crowds after sunset. If you get worn out, the Sightseer Tram Car takes visitors from one end of the boardwalk to the other, and there’s plenty of room on the beach to relax.
If you’re looking for a peaceful vacation in New Jersey, Spring Lake has the quietest beach and boardwalk, maintaining an atmosphere of lazy summer days spent lying on the beach or eating ice cream on the boardwalk. The beach is wide and uncluttered, and the 2-mile-long boardwalk is the longest noncommercial boardwalk in the state. Local shops and restaurants line the promenade, accompanied by bed-and-breakfasts and family-run inns. Beach badges are required for entry to the beach and can be purchased onsite. Military personnel and families are eligible for a discount.
