Nothing says summertime in New Jersey quite like a ramble down a crowded beachside boardwalk. With spectacular scenery, a sea breeze blowing and the sun shining down, life is good. The best boardwalks go 24/7 with family fun in the daytime and a non-stop party all night. Boardwalks are all about good times, positive energy, and vacation vibes, from the food to the shopping to the people watching.
But what are the best boardwalks in America?
And how do New Jersey’s magnificent boardwalks stack up against the rest of the country?
If you guessed that New Jersey’s iconic boardwalks are among the best in America, you guessed right. The experts at USA Today put together their 20 favorite picks across the USA. New Jersey managed to lead the list with FIVE great boardwalks. And now you have a chance to show your Jersey pride and cast your vote in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards 2025.
Here’s a peek at the New Jersey boardwalks that made the cut (in no particular order).
Seaside Heights Boardwalk
The Seaside Heights Boardwalk is brimming with retro bars, arcades, amusement rides, food stands and great restaurants. The official town motto is “Your home for family fun since 1913!.” It should be no surprise that for over a century it’s been known for family-friendly festivities and retro thrills. Adults and kids love both Casino Pier and Funtown Pier as well as everything in between.
Ocean City Boardwalk
The boardwalk at Ocean City is 2.5 miles of tempting treats and non-stop entertainment. You’ll quickly discover why they call it “America’s Greatest Family Resort.” Joggers, walkers and cyclists share the waterfront with visitors enjoying the marvels of Gillian’s Wonderland Pier and the sweet sounds of The Music Pier. Crowds always gather on the alcohol-free boardwalk to celebrate the breathtaking sunsets.
Boardwalk at Point Pleasant Beach
The highlights of the Boardwalk at Point Pleasant Beach are Boardwalk Amusements and Jenkinson’s Aquarium, but the one-mile stretch from Manasquan Inlet to New Jersey Avenue is also packed with ice cream shops, miniature golf courses, gift shops and pizza places. The first boardwalk dates back to the late 19th century and folks have swarmed the town for its exciting nightlife and great restaurants ever since.
Atlantic City Boardwalk
Without a doubt, one of the most famous boardwalks in the world is the Atlantic City Boardwalk. Anyone who’s played Monopoly knows this is the town that inspired the iconic board game and Boardwalk is the property with the biggest risk and highest return. First built in 1870, the AC Boardwalk has everything and more. The “Las Vegas of the East Coast” boasts casinos, candy stores, nightlife, high-end retail and classic beach bars. Plus, it’s the birthplace of saltwater taffy!
The Wildwoods Boardwalk
Built as a 150-yard boardwalk in the 1890s, the Wildwoods Boardwalk has grown to “2 ½ Miles of Smiles” today. Over the course of 38 jam-packed blocks, the boardwalk offers water parks, shops, bars, restaurants and attractions, plus an incredible array of buildings constructed in the classic “doo-wop” space-age style. If that isn’t enough, there are more than 100 attractions at Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Waterparks.
Now it’s your turn to vote for your favorite. Cast a vote once a day at USA Today 10Best. Voting ends on Monday, April 7 at noon ET. America’s top ten will be announced on Wednesday, April 16. New Jersey needs you. Vote early AND often.
