New Jersey boardwalks are one of our state’s best attractions. Now that summer is here, that means boardwalks are fully open with all rides, carnival games, ice cream, and local vendors going. From Asbury Park to Wildwood, New Jersey is packed with nearby options for a weekend trip to the Jersey shore’s iconic beachside promenades. Where you’re in search of fun, great food, or Instagrammable beach spots, we’ve got you covered. We’ve rounded up some of the best New Jersey boardwalks for your summer beach trips.
Asbury Park
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With classic New Jersey hotspots like Wonderbar and The Stone Pony, there is something for everyone on the Asbury Park Boardwalk. From Asbury Park Distilling to the Silverball Pinball Museum, this four-mile stretch of seaside boardwalk has Asbury 18 Hole Mini-Golf, glassblowing at Hot Sand, and homemade ice cream at Cookman Creamery — not to mention Paranormal Books and Curiosities for those who like some summertime spookiness. Be sure to check out the 8th Avenue Dog Beach at the end of the day, and we recommend snapping some pictures by the iconic Asbury Park Convention Hall.
Read More: New Jersey Beaches That Don’t Have an Admission Fee
Atlantic City
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Looking for something outside of the casinos? The Atlantic City Boardwalk is a summer staple for funnel cake, Italian ice, and saltwater taffy — and it also happens to be the world’s very first boardwalk. The Ferris wheel at Steel Pier is always a good time, concerts at Kennedy Plaza are home to wonderful music. There are even free concerts throughout the summer. There’s no shortage of fun things to do at the Atlantic City boardwalk.
Avon-by-The-Sea
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This Monmouth County gem is located in the Central Shore region. On this boardwalk, attractions like The Columns, which is a live music venue as well as a restaurant, are just one of the many things to do in Avon-by-The-Sea. Gazebos and pavilion areas are located along the boardwalk to enjoy lunch from local delis in the area. While on your boardwalk adventure, shopping is another fun activity to do in Avon-by-The-Sea.
Belmar
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While driving by Ocean Avenue in Belmar, the boardwalk and beach expand from First to 20th Avenues. Besides walking, this boardwalk has lots to see and do. There are attractions, shops, and restaurants to enjoy.
Bradley Beach
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This small beach town shouldn’t be looked over. With neighboring towns, Asbury Park and Ocean Grove, Bradley Beach is another boardwalk to add to your bucket list. With its quiet and laid-back vibe, catch a glimpse of the sunrise or sunset by the boardwalk while enjoying the ocean breeze and scent.
Lavallette
If looking to get daily steps in, Lavallette is a spot worth checking out. It isn’t a typical boardwalk with games and sounds — it’s a mile-long boardwalk that acts as an entryway to the beach. Besides walking, visitors can bike or run and enjoy the boardwalk. While going about the activities of your choosing, visitors can admire the beachfront houses along the coast.
Long Branch
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Arguably New Jersey’s most Victorian-style oceanside boardwalk, Pier Village in Long Branch is named, ‘City by the Sea’ because it is classically cute. The glass-encased Pier Village Carousel is a prime spot for pictures, or if you’re more into gaming and activities, shooting skee ball at Boardwalk Fun n’ Games is the way to go. McLoone’s Pier House hosts live music with cocktails and stunning ocean views. Long Branch is the place to go for a classy visit.
Ortley Beach
Located in Toms River, this boardwalk is similar to Lavallette. On Ortley’s boardwalk, visitors are free to take a stroll while enjoying the ocean breeze. Ortley Beach is located right by the boardwalk for those wanting to catch some waves after a long walk.
Point Pleasant
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If beachside arcades and amusement parks are a must in your summer plans, Jenkinson’s in Point Pleasant is the spot to go — and it’s a great place to bring some kids along. Leaning on the family-friendly side with the Adventure Lookout Ropes Course, funhouse, aquarium, and tons of boardwalk games, Jenkinson’s is sure to entertain both little ones and adults alike. After the beach day, Jenks or the Inlet Bar are great spots to grab a drink and listen to live music while gazing at sunset views.
Sea Girt
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If visiting Spring Lake, Sea Girt’s boardwalk is just a six-minute drive away. Ocean views are a must-see while checking Sea Girt out. The Historic Sea Girt Lighthouse is a great pit stop after all the walking on the boardwalk.
Seaside Heights
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Casino Pier at Seaside Heights is a must-see Jersey Shore hotspot for amusement park rides, carnival games, go-karts, and mini-golf, with plenty of bars and nightlife after prime beach hours. Berkeley Candy is a Seaside Heights classic for house-made salt water taffy for those with a sweet tooth — or you can post up on the beach and see the local surfers catch the waves from Memorial to Labor Day. Once the sun goes down, The Aztec Bar is a lively scene for drinks and live music with that Atlantic view.
Sea Isle City
Sea Isle City’s Promenade and Boardwalk expands from 29th to 57th Street. There are breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean while walking, running, or cycling. With the Promenade being next to the boardwalk, there are gift shops, food spots, arcades, and local boutiques worth checking out.
Spring Lake
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With a length of 2.2 miles, the Spring Lake boardwalk has two neighboring towns and is a perfect spot for a casual stroll without a lot of traffic. The north end of the boardwalk is near two arches that mark the border between Belmar and Spring Lake. As for the south end, visitors will come across the town of Sea Girt. While making your way through the boardwalk, pavilion areas are found to sit down and watch the ocean waves in peace.
Ocean City
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Ocean City Boardwalk’s two-and-a-half miles of beachside bliss is the spot for bike rentals by the shore. Bikers can cruise by lines of shops and art vendors, or park on the dunes for some time on the sand. The rides at Gillian’s Wonderland Pier and Playland’s Castaway Cove are a ton of fun, and the pool at Ocean City Waterpark is also a great spot to cool off after a long day in the sun. Quieter than its shoreside peers, Ocean City Boardwalk does not serve alcohol, but you can stay past sundown for neon carnival rides, live music, and homemade fudge.
Ventnor City
With close proximity to Atlantic City, Ventnor City is just a quick 10-minute drive (not including traffic!). This boardwalk is a more quiet, low-key vibe for those wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is 1.5 miles long and some highlights of this boardwalk include sightseeing Ventnor City’s fishing pier, tennis courts, library, and houses.
See More: 16 New Jersey Towns for a Fun Summer Day Trip
Wildwood
With carnival rides, over one hundred shops and snack stalls, and three water parks, Wildwood is a summertime New Jersey staple down the shore. Stretching thirty-eight blocks of shoreline, there’s nothing that can’t be found in Wildwood. From go-kart racing at Morey’s Piers to monster truck rides on the beach and a zip line, there’s plenty to do both on and off the sand. MG pro tip: we recommend getting a reservation at Breakfast in the Sky to jump-start your day on the Ferris wheel, a uniquely Wildwood experience.
