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When you think of the Jersey Shore the first thing that comes to mind is the show. That’s unfortunate. I am here to show you the other side. The Jersey Shore that everyone thinks of is Seaside Heights. It’s the most happening boardwalk, the dirtiest and where you see people like those on the show. It’s also a lot of fun and close to one of the most beautiful state parks, Island Beach State Park.

But today isn’t about Seaside, today is about my favorite boardwalk along the Jersey Shore. Point Pleasant. Now the Jersey Shore is huge, there are so many options beyond Seaside. Some really beautiful places. From Point Pleasant to Atlantic City to Cape May and Wildwood.

Speaking strictly of boardwalks, though, Point Pleasant is the cleaner and quieter of the boardwalks. Also known as Jenkinson’s boardwalk it is located in Ocean County, NJ and the beach is beautiful. It’s a place where you can sit at a bayside bar with a beer, listening to a band while couples dance their hearts out.

Top 6 things to do at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk

Laze on the beach

Who doesn’t love just chilling at the beach? Bring you blanket, your cooler and a good book and just be for a day. The water can be fierce in these parts and the beach is huge.

But remember, these are pay beaches. In order to gain access, you need to purchase either a day pass bracelet ($10 on weekdays and $11 on the weekend) or a season pass.

Otherwise, you can gaze at the sunbathers and ocean from the boardwalk. For free.

Play some carnival games

Like any good boardwalk, it is lined with games. From arcades to carnival games. Whatever you’re into. You can even win some stuffed toys, just like in the movies.

The staff, thankfully, aren’t as forceful as the carnival staff that rolls through towns. They are there all summer, seeing new tourists and locals every day who go there specifically to play games and eat funnel cake. So, they don’t really need to try that hard.

Play a round of Mini golf

Point Pleasant has some great mini golf. I love mini golf and am always looking for a chance to try a new course.

There are two separate courses on the boardwalk but my favorite has a pirate theme and two course options. Though it’s not quite as cool as the rooftop course at Seaside, we still play a round every time we visit.

Visit the Aquarium

I was pleasantly surprised by this little aquarium. It’s $15 for adults and $9 for kids and has a great layout.

From local species, to tropical fish, a penguin exhibit (my favorite) and some seals, it pretty much covers all the bases for a small aquarium.

Enjoy some fresh seafood

For me Point Pleasant is all about the food. Not only do you get the usual funnel cake and deep fried oreos, but the seafood is fresh.

New restaurants are popping up just off the boardwalk and many have their own attached fish market. The area is well known for its oysters and clams on the half shell and the reason I go as often as I do.

Head to the Amusement Park

If you want that true carnival feel, make sure to check out the rides at the amusement park.

I personally have never gone on the rides at Point Pleasant but they are pretty much the same ones you find at every boardwalk and carnival. Unlimited wrist bands are available for $36.95 on weekdays and $39.95 on the weekends.

Parking

All along the boardwalk there is parking available at a cost. You are likely to pay around $20 a day. You pay for convenience, especially if you have kids and a lot of gear with you.

But if you don’t have a lot of stuff and are willing to walk a couple blocks, park in the town. It’s free and the town is super cute. With coffee shops and great restaurants, you would be remiss not to visit this area.

If you want a good spot right at the boardwalk, make sure you get there early. Especially on a really nice summer day.

Boardwalk hours

Rides and stores are generally open from 8am until midnight in the summer. The beach is only open during lifeguard hours (9:30am-5:30pm) and strictly prohibited otherwise. Make sure to check their website for any events or changes prior to your visit.

Amenities

There are multiple bathrooms along the boardwalk, as well as outdoor showers. The boardwalk is wheelchair accessible and security patrols the area at all times.

Concluding thoughts

Point Pleasant is the quieter, more family friendly little sister of Seaside Heights, but to me it’s the better sister. There is nothing like sitting at a bar that overlooks the beach, eating fresh oysters and drinking a cold bear while dolphins dance in the distance.

I would rank Point Pleasant as #1 for best boardwalk in New Jersey. Even to the likes of Seaside and Wildwood. And after you have spent the day at the beach, make sure to head into the interior of the state for some surprisingly great hiking.