There are many beautiful beaches across the Garden State, but not all have boardwalks — and for some, that can be a dealbreaker. Plenty of visitors want classic boardwalk eats, entertainment and a cute anklet to complete their day. It might even be the only reason they are visiting. Needless to say, New Jersey delivers with several iconic beaches where rides, arcades, food stands and shops line the shoreline. Here are the top commercial boardwalk beaches in New Jersey, including a few free beaches.
Point Pleasant Beach
Point Pleasant Beach has everything you want in a classic boardwalk town. Jenkinson’s Boardwalk is packed with arcades, mini golf, an aquarium and plenty of food stands. If you love to party, you’ll find some great beach bars nearby. And when Thursday night rolls around, you can cap off your day with a beautiful fireworks display.
Seaside Heights
Just down the coast, Seaside Heights brings the energy. The rides, the music, the pizza — it’s loud, chaotic and so Jersey. The boardwalk stays buzzing from morning till night with arcades, bars and nonstop summer vibes. It’s also home to the iconic Jersey Shore house and the Shore Store from the reality hit show Jersey Shore.
Seaside Park
Right next door to Seaside Heights, Seaside Park offers a quieter, more laid-back alternative. It shares the same shoreline and boardwalk attractions but draws smaller crowds, making it popular with families and those seeking a more relaxed vibe. Visitors can enjoy arcades, food vendors, and fishing piers without the nonstop party scene next door.
Wildwood
Wildwood’s boardwalk takes the Jersey Shore experience to a whole new level. Stretching two miles along the coast, it’s packed with amusement piers, roller coasters, water parks and nonstop food options. The free, massive beach draws crowds from all over, making Wildwood one of the most visited spots in the state. It’s no surprise it was recently named the best beach in New Jersey for the second year in a row.
Ocean City
Ocean City keeps things family friendly with a dry town policy and two amusement parks. If you’re looking to get lit, this is not the spot for you. The classic boardwalk is packed with fudge shops, arcades, taffy stands and plenty of entertainment for all ages. The clean, wide beaches and friendly atmosphere make it a favorite for many visitors.
Asbury Park
Asbury Park mixes retro and modern. The boardwalk is lined with colorful murals, boutique shops, live music and some of the best food on the Shore. The whole place has an artsy, laid-back feel. And of course, if you plan to stay the night, you have to check out The Asbury Hotel or The St. Laurent.
Atlantic City
Atlantic City is the original boardwalk beach, and it still knows how to put on a show. Its boardwalk is the only one on this list with casinos where you can gamble your life savings. Along with the bright lights, you’ll find live concerts, classic sub sandwiches and lively beach bars lining the walkway. With a long, free beach that draws crowds year round, AC offers the full boardwalk experience.
Keansburg
Keansburg keeps an old school vibe with a compact boardwalk featuring classic rides and a water park right by the beach. The beach itself is free to access, while rides, games and the water park require tickets. The laid-back atmosphere makes it perfect for families, especially those with younger kids looking to enjoy a day by the shore.
Long Branch – Pier Village
Long Branch’s Pier Village is always popping. The boardwalk has a polished, modern feel, with plenty of restaurants, boutique shops and beach access with great views. It’s a solid spot for a walk, some shopping and a relaxing day by the water.
Alondra Cabrera is the Editorial Assistant at New Jersey Digest. She recently graduated from Montclair State University with a degree in Communication and Media Studies. During her time at school, she discovered her passion for journalism and content creation. In her free time, she loves to create and edit videos for her corgis, Rafi and Toffe, and indulge in culinary adventures with her friends. Alondra also enjoys traveling, cooking, and working out. She is excited to embark on her professional journey in media and looks forward to contributing her skill and creativity to her role here at New Jersey Digest.
