6 Jersey Boardwalks Locals Say Are Overrun by Tourists

For many New Jersey families, the boardwalk is a summer tradition. It’s where generations have strolled for funnel cakes, carnival rides, and ocean breezes. But some of the state’s most famous boardwalks no longer feel like local hangouts.

Crowds, noise, and nonstop tourism have transformed them into something different from what longtime residents remember. Here are a few boardwalks in New Jersey that locals often say feel overrun by visitors today.

1. Atlantic City Boardwalk

Ask anyone in New Jersey to name a boardwalk, and chances are they’ll say Atlantic City first. It’s one of the state’s most iconic attractions, steeped in history since 1870. But locals remember when it felt quieter, almost like a secret passage for shore-goers and not the year-round entertainment giant it is now.

These days, you can barely take a few steps without weaving through a sea of tourists flocking to the casinos, souvenir shops, and famous saltwater taffy stands. Live music, street performers, and the lure of big shows keep foot traffic moving late into the night. Even on weekdays, the buzz rarely lets up.

While the city’s energy has undeniably revitalized the area and kept businesses booming, some residents say the sense of community has faded. They recall simple summer strolls before the boardwalk became a national destination. For visitors, it’s a thrilling stop, but for those who grew up nearby, Atlantic City feels transformed, its original charm hidden by constant crowds and the unmistakable hum of tourism. Today, finding a quiet corner takes some effort, but the boardwalk’s legacy endures.

2. Seaside Heights Boardwalk

Bright lights, catchy music, and the smell of fried dough instantly signal Seaside Heights. Locals often share childhood memories of winning stuffed animals or riding the sky ride over the sand. Television made this Jersey Shore spot a household name, drawing in curious crowds each season.

In recent years, weekends have become a swirling mix of visitors packed shoulder to shoulder. Attractions like the roller coasters and vibrant arcades attract people of all ages. Some longtime residents say it’s become hard to find a peaceful moment or even a place to sit.

Parking presents another adventure of its own, often leading to long walks before even reaching the boardwalk. Still, the unmistakable energy makes Seaside Heights a top pick for anyone chasing classic boardwalk thrills. If quiet nostalgia is your goal, locals suggest arriving early or picking a weekday for your visit. The spirit of fun remains, but so does the persistent crowd.

3. Wildwood Boardwalk

Wildwood’s boardwalk bursts with color and excitement. It stretches for more than two miles, and its famous tram car bell can be heard above the noise of arcades and waterparks. Generations have grown up collecting tickets at the piers, but in recent summers, even locals find it hard to keep up with the pace.

The lines for rides and treats often seem endless, especially as families pour in from all over New Jersey and beyond. Heavy traffic getting in and out of town can turn a day trip into an all-day adventure. Even the evening breeze brings more visitors, all eager to catch fireworks or sample the latest culinary creation.

Despite the bustle, there’s still something irresistible about Wildwood’s flashing lights and ocean views. For locals, the trick is to visit before the crowds arrive or after they thin out. The energy is infectious, but sometimes the yearning for a quieter, slower stroll wins out. Still, few places capture the spirit of a New Jersey summer quite like Wildwood.

4. Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk

Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk has always been a family magnet, with its array of rides, arcades, and the small but beloved aquarium. Growing up, many locals recall feeding quarters into games or grabbing slices of pizza along the wooden planks. Summer, however, brings a different energy.

Weekends tend to see an influx of families and visitors from across New Jersey, all vying for the perfect parking spot. The boardwalk fills quickly, and lines at food stands can test anyone’s patience. The beach itself is just steps away, making it a haven for those needing a break from the crowds.

While the local charm remains, some residents admit they now schedule visits in the off-season. The sights and sounds of Point Pleasant delight newcomers every summer. For those seeking peace, early mornings or shoulder seasons offer a gentler glimpse of what locals once considered their own corner of the shore.

5. Ocean City Boardwalk

Sunset on the Ocean City Boardwalk is a sight to remember. The pastel skies and the laughter of children set a scene that feels right out of a summertime postcard. But as the sun dips lower, the crowds thicken, and finding space to wander can feel challenging.

Ocean City takes pride in its family-friendly reputation. Cleanliness and safety draw large groups, especially in July and August. As a result, shoulder-to-shoulder crowds are common on summer nights, with every bench and snack stand surrounded by eager visitors.

Many locals now opt for the quieter beaches just beyond the main drag, where the pace slows and the sounds of the boardwalk fade. Still, even as Ocean City becomes busier, its reputation as an essential New Jersey experience endures. The boardwalk’s charm remains strong for those who don’t mind sharing it with thousands of others.

6. Asbury Park Boardwalk

Art, music, and the ocean breeze set a distinctive tone on Asbury Park’s boardwalk. Once known for its vintage charm and laid-back crowd, the area now pulses with creative energy and a steady stream of visitors. Locals reminisce about quieter days when the only sounds were distant waves and a song drifting from an open window.

Recently, the boardwalk has become a hotspot for foodies, art lovers, and music fans. Events and festivals often draw even more people, filling every available space. The historic Convention Hall stands as a symbol of the area’s transformation into a cultural landmark.

While many are glad to see Asbury Park thriving again, some residents feel the boardwalk’s community spirit has faded into the background. For those who remember the old days, the present hustle can be bittersweet. Still, the vibrancy of Asbury Park remains a highlight of the Jersey Shore, even if it sometimes feels like the secret is out.