I have fond memories of summers down the shore. We spent hours and hours baking on the beach and splashing in the ocean, but always looked forward to our annual day trip to the boardwalk. The ocean breeze as we walked the boards, the thrill of the amusement park rides, the catcalls of the carnival game owners, and the quest to earn as many prize tickets from the arcade games as humanly possible. Those days were some of the most relaxing and entertaining we ever had, and the boardwalk memories seem to be cherished by every family. Here are seven of our favorite American Boardwalk destinations!

7. Coney Island, New York

Coney Island is situated in Brooklyn, NY and has long been a summer destination for New Yorkers and those in surrounding areas. The boardwalk was, traditionally, the home for some of the hottest freak shows on the planet - and still is, to some extent! Consider stopping by the fire-laden side shows, the zombie burlesque show, or the Coney Island museum. Visit for the annual Mermaid Parade and you’ll be amazed at the sites you see! There are plenty of amusement rides to occupy the little ones while you’re not exploring the boards or down on the beach.

6. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is one of the hottest ocean town destinations on the east coast. The town itself has a lot to offer, including the incredible boardwalk filled with amusement rides, shops, and carnival games. Spend the day relaxing on the beach and take advantage of the cool evening breeze while exploring the entertainment provided along the boards or by taking a stroll down one of the extensions that jets out over the ocean itself. In Myrtle Beach you’ll also find a gigantic butterfly pavilion, an incredible aquarium, and beautiful theatres.

5. Atlantic City, New Jersey

Atlantic City is known as “America’s Favorite Playground,” and for good reason. The boardwalk stretches for over four miles, offering hours of entertainment for children and adults of all ages. Adults might enjoy spending time gambling in one of the main casinos, while children will enjoy one of the amusement piers or the games that line the strip.

The historic Steel Peer was slated to be destroyed in 2007, but managed to hang around for another season, so try to make it down this summer if you’re in the area. Enjoy dozens of shops, themed restaurants, and the Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum while you’re there, too. A visit on August 20th will enable you to catch a glimpse of the annual Atlantic City Air Show - a spectacular free event you won’t want to miss!

4. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Rehoboth Beach has long been a destination for visitors from all over, especially those from surrounding areas looking for a change of scenery. Only a few hours drive-time from some major cities, Rehoboth Beach offers a mile-long boardwalk chock full of shops, eateries, and Funland rides. Some of the creamiest boardwalk fudge I’ve ever tasted came from Rehoboth Beach’s Candy Kitchen! If you need a change of scenery, the state park is a few miles north while Ocean City, Maryland is only a few miles further south!

3. Virginia Beach, Virginia

While the Virginia Beach boardwalk is no longer made of boards (it’s now concrete to help protect it from the elements), it’s still one of the most popular three-mile boardwalks on the east coast. The boardwalk is most famous for its three open-air stages and the festivals it hosts there each year, including Viva Elvis Festival and Festival in June, amongst others. The boardwalk itself is also within miles of other popular Virginia destinations. When you’re done on the beach, you’re within driving distance of Busch Gardens, the Virginia Zoo, and the historic Jamestown and Williamsburg destinations.

2. Ocean City, Maryland

As mentioned above, Ocean City, Maryland (not to be confused with Ocean City, NJ, which has yet another incredible boardwalk) is one of Maryland’s hottest summer destinations. The amusement piers house an old-fashioned carousel built in 1902, amongst dozens of other thrilling rides and roller coasters. Ocean City is perfect for families and always has some form of entertainment, ranging from free movies on the beach to entertaining concerts - the infamous Beach Boys will be performing on July 6^th!

1. Santa Cruz, California

Santa Cruz, California is the ultimate destination for beach goers. Known as the perfect spot for surfers, the waters of Santa Cruz are crowded year round. The boardwalk itself houses the Surfing Museum and one of the last wooden roller coasters in the country, the Giant Dipper. The mile-long boardwalk is within driving distance of San Francisco and surrounding areas, making this the perfect beach town for wave-lovers from all over! Make reservations for your beachside Santa Cruz lodging.

America’s boardwalks are perfect vacation destinations for families or individuals of any age. We hope you enjoy these memory makers as much as we do!

Photo Credits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7