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The Jersey Shore is famous for its seaside boardwalks with their arcades, water parks, amusement parks, and fantastic people watching opportunities. These boardwalks also make for great running spots. For a more serene experience, it’s best to go early. In high season, you might have to dodge the crowds. We’ve chosen boardwalks that are at least 1 mile in length. Surfaces might vary from wood to concrete. One benefit of these boardwalks is that they’re lit at night! Our favorites, from north to south, include:
Asbury Park to Belmar: It’s possible to run the nearly 5 miles between Asbury Park and Belmar on an oceanside boardwalk. There are a couple of brief sections on Ocean Ave. The 1.3 mile Belmar Boardwalk is more of a party atmosphere, while the section through Ocean Grove is lined with benches, street lamps, and potted flowers. Asbury Park is known for its history. For add-ons, the beach in Asbury Park is great for running. There are also nice paths along Wesley Lake, Sunset Park, and a part of Deal Lake. MAP of the three boardwalks. Asbury Park Boardwalk article.
Point Pleasant Beach: This classic wooden boardwalk runs 1 mile from the Lighthouse Point mini golf club to the Manasquan Inlet. Arcades, amusements, fun. MAP
Seaside: A 2.1 mile wooden boardwalk runs between Seaside Heights and Seaside Park. It has been rebuilt since the devastation of Hurricane Sandy. More of a party atmosphere. For variety, we’ve mapped out a 6-mile loop than includes the Boardwalk and Bayview Ave., which runs for 1.5 miles along Barnegat Bay, with great water views and a good shoulder for running. Boardwalk MAP. Loop Including Bayview Ave. Note: Under construction as of February 2023.
Atlantic City: This Iconic oceanfront boardwalk featuring views and a variety of shops and restaurants has been a fixture since 1870. The wooden boardwalk runs for 5.8 miles, from the Atlantic City Aquarium/casino area in the north to St. Martindale Ave. & Atlantic Ave. in the south. The ‘center’ of it is off Rt.40/N. Albany Ave., where you can go 2 miles south, or 4 miles north. Beach is ~8 miles long and runnable! MAP
Ocean City: This fun and festive route stretches 2.5 miles along the beachfront from 23rd St. to St. James Place. You’ll pass a Playland, the Historic Brighton Estates, and Gillian’s Wonderland Pier, among other piers and parks. For a longer run, there’s a very scenic section from 9th St. off the Boardwalk over the Stainton Memorial Causeway bridge to Somers Point. This is part of the 5-mile Ocean City Bike Path. Great views! Boardwalk Map. Bike Path Map.
Wildwood: This concrete and wood boardwalk follows the coast 3+ miles from near Wildwood Crest to North Wildwood. Good ocean views and a festive atmosphere, with 300 businesses and a giant ferris wheel. Wildwood Beach, at 4+ miles, is also great for running. MAP
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1) The Atlantic City Boardwalk is now 5.5 miles and connected to the Ventnor Boardwalk, which is 1.5 miles. Park for free at Oscar E Mc Clinton Jr Waterfront Park, 201 NH Ave, AC 08401. Dated 2/2023.
2) Most of the Seaside Heights-Seaside Park Boardwalk is now under construction and off-limits. Dated 2/2023.
3) In Ocean City, exit the Boardwalk at 9th St and go up and over the 2.2-mile 9th St Bridge to Somers Point and back. The views are spectacular! Dated 2/2023.