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.
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 6.4 miles, starting between St. Martindale Ave. and Atlantic Ave. in the south, and continues north to the Atlantic City Aquarium. The ‘center’ of it is off Rt.40/N. Albany Ave., where you can go 2 miles south, or 4 miles north. The first mile to the north includes some of Atlantic City’s major casinos. 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. The 5-mile Ocean City Bike Path, with great coastal views, is a good nearby option if you want to tack on some more mileage. 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