There’s something wonderful about a daily familiar walk. I have one; not quite daily but my wife and I often take a 45-minute walk and it’s almost always the same route. Usually, it’s after dinner. I like the familiarity. It’s comfortable. It’s a scenic route that we both enjoy. And that’s what a beach boardwalk can be for residents in a town that is lucky enough to have one. If you’re looking for a walking-friendly beach town with a fun, vibrant boardwalk spanning the area, here’s a list of 20 smaller beach towns famous for their boardwalks. Interestingly, towns with boardwalks often include huge piers and/or amusement parks. Not all but some. This list includes a variety of arrangements.
20. Galveston, Texas
Galveston, Texas, combines coastal charm with a rich history that makes it stand out from other Gulf towns. Its Victorian architecture gives the town an old-world feel, with the Strand Historic District offering boutique shops, restaurants, and galleries that celebrate its past. But it’s the boardwalk that really draws the crowds, with the Pleasure Pier rising above the waves, packed with roller coasters, carnival games, and sweeping views of the Gulf. This isn’t just any boardwalk—it’s a nod to the grand amusement parks of the early 20th century, with a modern flair. Beyond the pier, you’ll find seafood shacks serving fresh Gulf catches, quirky souvenir shops, and plenty of spots to relax by the water. Galveston is also home to sandy beaches, perfect for a stroll after you’ve hit the rides. It’s a town where history meets fun, all tied together with that laid-back Texas vibe.
19. Carolina Beach, North Carolina
Carolina Beach, North Carolina, is a vibrant coastal town known for its laid-back atmosphere and family-friendly vibe. The boardwalk is the heart of the action, with a classic beachside feel, offering everything from arcade games and souvenir shops to locally famous spots like Britt’s Donut Shop, which has been serving up warm, sugary goodness since 1939. Stretching along the Atlantic, the boardwalk hosts live music, fireworks, and festivals that bring the community together, especially during the summer. Beyond the boardwalk, Carolina Beach State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, offering hiking trails and gorgeous views along the Cape Fear River. The town’s beach is wide and sandy, perfect for swimming, surfing, or just soaking up the sun. Carolina Beach offers a mix of old-school charm and outdoor adventure, making it a favorite spot on the North Carolina coast. Whether you’re there for the boardwalk buzz or a quiet beach day, it’s got something for everyone.
18. Venice Beach, California
Venice Beach, California, is an iconic destination that blends bohemian vibes with classic California beach culture. Its world-famous boardwalk is a buzzing, eclectic scene, packed with street performers, artists, skaters, and vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to funky clothing. Muscle Beach, where bodybuilders have been flexing since the ’60s, is a must-see, as is the colorful skate park where pros and amateurs alike show off their tricks. But it’s not all action—there are also quirky shops, juice bars, and beachside cafes where you can sit back and watch the mix of locals and tourists flow by. Beyond the boardwalk, Venice’s canals offer a quieter, more picturesque side of the town, a nod to its Italian namesake. The beach itself is wide and perfect for sunbathing, volleyball, or just enjoying the Pacific breeze. Venice Beach is a vibrant, one-of-a-kind place where creativity and beach life collide.
17. Huntington Beach, California
Huntington Beach, California, proudly holds the title of “Surf City USA,” and its boardwalk perfectly captures that laid-back, surf culture vibe. Stretching for miles along the Pacific, the boardwalk is a favorite for cyclists, joggers, and sunset strolls, offering stunning ocean views the entire way. The Huntington Beach Pier, one of the longest on the West Coast, is the centerpiece—jutting out into the waves where surfers ride year-round. Just off the boardwalk, Main Street is packed with surf shops, casual eateries, and beachfront bars where you can grab a drink and watch the action. The town is home to the U.S. Open of Surfing, bringing in pros and spectators from around the globe each summer. Beyond the beach, the town has a lively nightlife and plenty of outdoor activities, from volleyball courts to bonfire pits. Huntington Beach effortlessly blends classic SoCal surf culture with modern beachside fun, making it a must-visit spot.
16. Long Beach, New York
Long Beach, New York, offers a classic beach town experience with a distinctive Long Island flair. Its recently rebuilt boardwalk stretches over two miles along the Atlantic, perfect for biking, jogging, or just taking in the sea breeze. Unlike many other boardwalks, it’s refreshingly laid-back, with fewer commercial distractions, letting the beach and ocean steal the spotlight. That said, you’ll find cozy cafes, ice cream shops, and seafood shacks nearby, making it easy to refuel after a day in the sun. The beach itself is wide and clean, drawing families, surfers, and volleyball players alike. Long Beach also boasts a tight-knit community vibe, especially during its summer events like live concerts and arts festivals. With its relaxed atmosphere and oceanfront views, Long Beach offers a refreshing escape from the hustle of nearby New York City.
15. Bethany Beach, Delaware
Bethany Beach, Delaware, is known for its peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere, offering a quieter alternative to the busier beach towns nearby. Its boardwalk, though smaller and more low-key, is a charming stretch that runs parallel to the beach, lined with quaint shops, local eateries, and a classic bandstand where live music often fills the air. You won’t find amusement parks or loud arcades here—Bethany’s boardwalk is all about relaxation and soaking up the simple pleasures of beach life. The town’s wide, sandy beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just listening to the waves. Beyond the boardwalk, Bethany Beach has a laid-back, welcoming vibe, with ice cream parlors and mom-and-pop restaurants that cater to both locals and visitors. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy the beauty of the Delaware coast without the crowds, making it a perfect spot for a serene, coastal getaway.
14. Daytona Beach, Florida
Daytona Beach, Florida, is famous for its lively atmosphere and action-packed boardwalk, making it a hotspot for thrill-seekers and families alike. The boardwalk itself is a hub of activity, featuring arcades, amusement rides, and plenty of beachfront shops selling everything from souvenirs to funnel cakes. The iconic Daytona Beach Pier anchors the area, offering fishing, scenic views, and a prime spot to watch the surfers tackle the Atlantic waves. Known for its drive-on beach, Daytona lets you park right on the sand, a unique feature that adds to its laid-back charm. Beyond the boardwalk, the town is steeped in motorsports culture, home to the world-renowned Daytona International Speedway. Whether you’re here for the beach, the boardwalk, or the racing history, Daytona Beach delivers a high-energy mix of sun, surf, and excitement that keeps visitors coming back.
13. Wildwood, New Jersey
Wildwood, New Jersey, is a boardwalk lover’s dream, with one of the most expansive and iconic boardwalks on the East Coast. Stretching nearly two miles, it’s packed with everything you could want for a beachside adventure—amusement parks, water slides, arcades, and endless food stands serving up funnel cakes, pizza, and the famous boardwalk fries. The towering Ferris wheel and roller coasters at Morey’s Piers light up the skyline, offering thrills with ocean views. Wildwood’s beach is equally impressive, known for its wide expanse of sand where you can lounge, swim, or catch a game of beach volleyball. Beyond the boardwalk, the town is famous for its Doo-Wop style motels, giving it a retro, 1950s vibe that’s part of its unique charm. With its mix of family-friendly fun and vintage flair, Wildwood is a top destination for summer getaways along the Jersey Shore.
12. Mission Beach, California
Mission Beach, California, is a quintessential Southern California beach town with a boardwalk that pulses with energy and sun-soaked fun. Stretching for miles along the Pacific, the boardwalk is a hotspot for rollerblading, biking, and people-watching, with beach volleyball games and surfers hitting the waves just steps away. At the heart of it all is Belmont Park, a historic amusement park featuring the iconic Giant Dipper roller coaster, along with arcades, rides, and oceanfront dining. The vibe here is classic SoCal—laid-back, but always buzzing with activity. Beyond the boardwalk, Mission Beach offers a perfect blend of sandy shores and nearby attractions like SeaWorld, just a short drive away. Whether you’re here for the thrill of the rides, a day of sunbathing, or cruising the boardwalk, Mission Beach delivers that carefree California spirit.
11. Seaside, Oregon
Seaside, Oregon, is a charming coastal town known for its relaxed vibe and picturesque boardwalk. The Seaside Promenade, affectionately called “The Prom,” stretches 1.5 miles along the Pacific, offering a peaceful stroll with stunning ocean views, historic lamp posts, and easy access to the sandy beach. At the heart of the boardwalk is the Seaside Aquarium, one of the oldest aquariums on the West Coast, where visitors can feed seals and learn about local marine life. The town itself is filled with quaint shops, candy stores, and restaurants serving fresh seafood, giving it a cozy, small-town feel. Seaside is also famous for its massive sandy beach, perfect for kite flying, bonfires, and even the annual sandcastle competition. With its family-friendly attractions and laid-back atmosphere, Seaside is a beloved getaway on Oregon’s northern coast.
10. Pismo Beach, California
Pismo Beach, California, is a laid-back coastal town that blends natural beauty with classic beach town charm. Its iconic boardwalk runs alongside the famous Pismo Pier, offering stunning views of the Pacific and access to the town’s wide, golden-sand beach. The pier is a favorite for fishing, sunset watching, and spotting surfers riding the waves just below. Nearby, you’ll find charming seafood restaurants, surf shops, and cozy cafes perfect for grabbing a bite after a day in the sun. Beyond the boardwalk, Pismo Beach is known for its breathtaking sand dunes, which are popular for ATV riding and dune buggy adventures. Whether you’re here for the coastal views, the relaxed boardwalk vibe, or a bit of adrenaline in the dunes, Pismo Beach has a little something for everyone.
9. Hollywood Beach, Florida
Hollywood Beach, Florida, offers a perfect blend of old-school charm and modern beachside fun, centered around its famous 2.5-mile boardwalk, known as the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk. This paved stretch runs along the Atlantic Ocean, lined with palm trees, bike rentals, and open-air cafes where you can grab a bite while enjoying the ocean breeze. The beach here is wide and sandy, perfect for swimming or sunbathing, while the boardwalk offers activities like rollerblading, jogging, and people-watching. Beyond the typical boardwalk fun, Hollywood Beach has a relaxed, retro feel, with small inns and locally-owned shops that give it a more laid-back vibe compared to its glitzier South Florida neighbors. For live music and entertainment, the outdoor bandshell hosts performances regularly, adding to the lively, yet relaxed, atmosphere. Whether you’re out for a family day at the beach or a sunset stroll, Hollywood Beach delivers that perfect mix of activity and tranquility.
8. Coney Island, New York
Coney Island, New York, is a legendary beach town that has been synonymous with summer fun for over a century. Its iconic boardwalk stretches along the Atlantic, offering classic amusement park thrills with the historic Wonder Wheel and the Cyclone roller coaster, both staples of Luna Park. The boardwalk is bustling with energy, lined with food stands serving up Nathan’s Famous hot dogs, funnel cakes, and cotton candy, giving it that timeless carnival atmosphere. Beyond the rides, the beach itself is a wide, sandy stretch perfect for swimming or lounging. Coney Island also hosts the famous Mermaid Parade and fireworks during the summer, making it a hotspot for both locals and tourists. With its mix of nostalgia, beachside fun, and unmistakable New York grit, Coney Island offers an unforgettable slice of Americana right by the ocean.
7. Old Orchard Beach, Maine
Old Orchard Beach, Maine, is a classic New England beach town known for its nostalgic charm and lively boardwalk scene. The seven-mile stretch of sandy beach is the centerpiece, but it’s the historic Old Orchard Pier that really brings the town to life. Extending 500 feet into the Atlantic, the pier is lined with seafood shacks, bars, and souvenir shops, offering stunning ocean views and a festive atmosphere. Just off the beach, you’ll find Palace Playland, a beachfront amusement park with rides, games, and a Ferris wheel that lights up the night. The town has a laid-back, family-friendly vibe, but there’s always something happening, from fireworks to concerts on the pier. Whether you’re here for the carnival rides, the fried clams, or a stroll along the beach, Old Orchard Beach delivers a quintessential seaside experience with a touch of New England charm.
6. Asbury Park, New Jersey
Asbury Park, New Jersey, is a vibrant beach town with a rich history and a boardwalk that’s become a hub for arts, music, and culture. The boardwalk here has a cool, retro vibe, lined with eclectic shops, art galleries, and funky bars, while the historic Paramount Theatre and Convention Hall anchor the scene with live shows and events. Asbury Park is known for its deep musical roots—this is where Bruce Springsteen got his start—and venues like The Stone Pony still draw big crowds. The beach is wide and inviting, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or catching the occasional surf. Beyond the boardwalk, the town has a hip, revitalized feel, with gourmet restaurants and trendy spots offering a mix of old-school charm and modern energy. Whether you’re here for the music, the food, or the beach, Asbury Park blends culture and seaside fun like no other town on the Jersey Shore.
5. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is the heart of the Grand Strand, offering miles of sandy beaches and one of the most action-packed boardwalks on the East Coast. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk stretches over a mile, packed with arcades, shops, and classic beachside eateries serving up favorites like saltwater taffy and fried seafood. The towering SkyWheel, a 200-foot Ferris wheel, gives breathtaking views of the Atlantic and the vibrant scene below. The beach itself is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or beach volleyball, while the boardwalk buzzes with live music, festivals, and nightly fireworks during the summer. Just steps away, you’ll find bustling entertainment districts like Broadway at the Beach, adding even more excitement to this already lively town. With its mix of family-friendly fun, vibrant nightlife, and endless beach activities, Myrtle Beach is the ultimate coastal getaway in South Carolina.
4. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, is a charming seaside town known for its welcoming atmosphere and iconic mile-long boardwalk. The boardwalk is lined with family-owned shops, arcades, and classic beachside eateries, like Thrasher’s Fries and Kohr Brothers Frozen Custard, giving it that nostalgic, small-town feel. At the center of the action is Funland, an old-school amusement park offering rides and games that have entertained generations of visitors. The beach itself is wide and clean, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing with the sound of the Atlantic waves. Rehoboth also has a thriving arts scene, with galleries, live music, and frequent festivals that draw both locals and tourists. Known as “The Nation’s Summer Capital,” Rehoboth Beach blends old-fashioned boardwalk fun with a lively, yet laid-back, coastal vibe, making it a beloved destination along the Delaware coast.
3. Avila Beach, California
Avila Beach, California, is a hidden gem on the Central Coast, offering a quieter, more intimate beach town experience with a charming boardwalk. The boardwalk itself runs parallel to a small, crescent-shaped beach, dotted with cozy restaurants, boutique shops, and local wineries where you can enjoy a glass of wine with an ocean view. The Avila Pier stretches out into the Pacific, perfect for a leisurely stroll or fishing, with sea lions often spotted playing in the water below. Just a short walk away, you’ll find natural hot springs and hiking trails with breathtaking coastal views. Avila Beach has a laid-back, family-friendly vibe, with calm waters ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, or kayaking. With its relaxed atmosphere, scenic beauty, and local charm, Avila Beach is a perfect spot for a peaceful coastal escape.
2. Duck Beach, North Carolina
Duck Beach, North Carolina, offers a peaceful retreat on the Outer Banks, known for its natural beauty and serene, uncrowded vibe. Unlike the bustling boardwalks of other beach towns, Duck has a charming wooden boardwalk that winds through the marshes and along the Currituck Sound, offering stunning sunset views and access to local shops, galleries, and cafes. The town’s pristine beach is just a short walk from the boardwalk, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or catching the sunrise over the Atlantic. Duck Beach is also great for water sports, with kayaking and paddleboarding being popular activities in the calm waters of the sound. With no high-rise hotels or flashy attractions, Duck maintains a relaxed, small-town feel that’s ideal for those looking to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Outer Banks. It’s a hidden gem where peace and nature take center stage.
1. Lewes, Delaware
Lewes, Delaware, is a quaint, historic town that offers a peaceful beach escape with a touch of old-world charm. While it doesn’t have a typical boardwalk, Lewes makes up for it with its scenic canalfront and laid-back vibe. The town’s beaches, especially at Cape Henlopen State Park, are quiet and pristine, perfect for swimming, fishing, or simply enjoying the view of where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. The town itself is rich with history, being the “First Town in the First State,” with colonial architecture, museums, and walking tours that showcase its maritime past. Lewes is also known for its charming shops, cafes, and local seafood restaurants, many of which are nestled along the historic streets or by the water. For those who enjoy biking or hiking, the nearby Junction & Breakwater Trail offers beautiful scenery through the coastal landscape. Lewes is the perfect spot for visitors seeking a peaceful, historic coastal experience.
