When you think of a seaside boardwalk, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? In brief, it’s probably a picturesque beachside community often accompanied by a family-friendly amusement park. Of course, that’s why coastal cities rank among America’s top destinations in the summer. In light of this, it’s not too late to start planning for a seaside vacation before summer is over. Without further delay, here is a look at 15 of the best seaside boardwalks in the United States.
Best Seaside Boardwalks in America
Atlantic City, NJ
www.visitnj.org/atlantic-city-boardwalk
Even if this list wasn’t alphabetized, the AC’s boardwalk should be mentioned first. After all, it was America’s first, opened in 1870. On top of that, it’s one of the longest and among the East Coast’s most famous boardwalks. Extending over 4 miles, the iconic pedestrian pathway connects several of the AC’s top attractions, like casinos, retail shopping, piers, and the famed Boardwalk Hall. Lastly, the beaches are just footsteps away if it gets too hot.
Daytona Beach, FL
It’s not just the historic boardwalk that makes this Florida city exceptionally popular. For one, it’s home to one of the world’s most famous beaches. For another, there are amusement park rides, arcade games, and a legendary racetrack. In addition, there are lively summer concerts at the time-weathered Bandshell. If that’s not enough, head to the Pier or enjoy an upcoming Festival Capital of Florida event.
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Hampton Beach, NH
This beautiful seaside community doesn’t have a boardwalk. Yet almost everywhere you look is a business named after it. Moreover, with arcade games, cheap eats, and small retail shops, it seems like the real thing. Furthermore, events are held all summer, including live entertainment on the Sea Shell Stage, a talent contest, and a seafood fest. Lastly, Hampton Beach will host a long list of world-class performers all summer at the iconic Casino Ballroom.
Hollywood Beach Boardwalk, FL
Blessed with summery weather all year, Hollywood Beach has drawn visitors since the 1920s. During the early days, a cement walkway was paved, and this resort area emerged as the Atlantic City of the South. With this in mind, Hollywood Beach Broadwalk now extends nearly 2.5 miles and is among the best in Florida. Several hotels, eateries, and tourist shops line the walkway to complete the total vacation experience. Oh, and that’s not a typo—it is called Broadwalk!
Jones Beach, NY
Like New Jersey, the Empire State has an impressive collection of boardwalks. While Coney Island reigns supreme, Rockaway and Long Beach are as scenic as they are as expansive. However, the nearly-mile-long Jones Beach boardwalk cuts here. That’s primarily because of concerts at the Bandshell and Jones Beach Theater. Aside from Atlantic City, no other boardwalk comes close to this level of world-class entertainment.
Mission Beach, San Diego
Featuring a historic seaside amusement park, Mission Beach has not one but two seaside boardwalks. The first opened in 1925, around the same time as Belmont Park. Today, the boardwalk runs the length of Mission and Pacific beaches. Unsurprisingly, the walkway is filled with people enjoying snack shops, nightlife, and shops for water activities. Additionally, on the opposite side of the beach is Mission Bay, which has its famous Bayside Walk.
Myrtle Beach, SC
Located along South Carolina’s Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach is among the top beach destinations in the entire South. The top South Carolina boardwalk dates to the 1930s and today runs 1.2 miles long while bustling with activity. The pathway connects visitors to many affordable hotels and attractions, including the 187-foot-tall SkyWheel. If that’s not enough, there are arcade games, a wooden roller coaster, and even more amusement parks.
Ocean City, MD
Located on Fenwick Island, Ocean City is a resort community with a population of barely over 7,000. But in summertime, it’s reminiscent of other popular coastal destinations. The first boardwalk opened in 1902 and now ranks among the Top 10 Best. The 2.25-mile boardwalk is dog-friendly and known for its award-winning food options. Even more, Trimper’s Rides is one of America’s best and oldest remaining seaside parks. Trimper’s is the oldest operating family-owned amusement park in the country, dating back to 1893.
Rehoboth Beach, DE
Once named the East Coast’s Best Family Beach, Rehoboth Beach backs up the distinction. Similarly, the mile-long seaside boardwalk has earned its national awards. The original boardwalk dates to 1873, the same year the town was established. What is more, the contemporary walkway is made of wood! In addition, there are family-friendly attractions like Funland and Ryan’s Mini Golf. You can enjoy free music for the Rehoboth Beach Summer Concert Series during the summer months. The Concert Series features over 40 live music acts each season.
Riegelmann Boardwalk, NY
The name might not be recognizable. However, think of Coney Island, and you will instantly know that Riegelmann is a famous boardwalk. Even before the wooden walkway was completed in 1923, Coney Island was America’s most prominent amusement area. Although many attractions have come and gone, Coney Island draws enormous crowds. A few landmark attractions are still around, like the Cyclone, Wonder Wheel, and the original Nathan’s Famous hot dog stand. That’s not to mention the 250-foot tall Parachute Jump tower, although it’s no longer operational.
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Santa Cruz Boardwalk, CA
Like many of today’s amusement parks, the boardwalk here is no longer wooden. However, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk retains some of its oldest rides and attractions. This includes the Giant Dipper roller coaster, Looff Carousel, and the Cocoanut Grove. Opened in 1907, the Beach Boardwalk is the oldest surviving amusement park on the West Coast. Even more, the Beach Boardwalk has been named the world’s best seaside park by the Golden Ticket Awards.
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Seaside Heights, NJ
With so many boardwalks along the Jersey Shore, it’s a shame to leave some out. Of course, there are hotspots like Long Branch and Asbury Park. That’s also not to mention Point Pleasant. However, there’s something special about the 2.1-mile wooden boardwalk in Seaside Heights. First, it connects to Casino Pier, among the nation’s top amusement parks. If that’s not enough, Seaside Heights was also the setting for MTV’’s popular reality TV show Jersey Shore.
Venice Beach, CA
Venice Beach, California
www.LAParks.org
It might be surprising to know that Venice Beach is Southern California’s second-largest tourist attraction. Of course, there’s Disneyland, but Venice Beach offers a more affordable experience. Attracting all sorts of exciting characters, Ocean Front Walk is lined with souvenir shops, snack shops, and more. Also part of the scene are pickleball, weightlifters, basketball players, and street performers. Also not to be missed are the world’s only beachside skatepark and the landmark Santa Monica Pier.
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Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach, Virginia
www.vabeach.com/boardwalk
There’s a reason why Virginia Beach is among America’s best summer destinations. There are great hotels, shopping, nightlife, and the “world’s longest pleasure beach.” Besides that, the 3-mile-long boardwalk has its share of national recognition. Initially built in 1888, the boardwalk ranks high from sources like the Travel Channel, National Geographic, and more. Lastly, head to Atlantic Fun Park for fun, games, and thrill rides.
Wildwoods Boardwalk, NJ
Last but certainly not least is another famous Jersey Shore boardwalk. Dating back to 1890, the original wooden boards are gone. However, in its place is an impressive walkway stretching across 38 blocks. Along the two-mile pathway is everything one would expect in a nationally recognized destination. Indeed, there are souvenir shops, snack bars, and Morey’s Piers, one of the best amusement parks in the country. What’s more is the Sightseer Tram service, as well as a famous Doo Wop museum.
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About The Author:
Randy Yagi is an award-winning freelance writer who served as the National Travel Writer for CBS Local from 2012 to 2019. More than 900 of his stories still appear in syndication across 23 CBS websites, including CBS New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco. During his peak years with CBS, Randy had a reported digital audience reach of 489 million and 5.5 million monthly visitors. Additionally, his stories have appeared in the Daily Meal, CBS News, CBS Radio, Engadget, NBC.com, NJ.com, and Radio.com. He is a Media Fellow of Stanford University.