There’s no mystery to the Point Pleasant Boardwalk. You’ve probably been here if you grew up near the Jersey Shore. If you haven’t, you already know what it’s like.
It’s small, packed, and exactly what you expect: a mile of food stands, arcades, bars, and a beach you have to pay to get on. While it’s not big, cheap, or quiet, if you know what you’re doing, you can have a solid day here without overthinking it.
During the day, it’s beach crowds and kids running between the sand and the arcade. At night, it’s people bar-hopping at Jenks or grabbing one last slice before heading home.
It’s been like this forever, and I’m here to show you how to do it right.
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk
Jenkinson’s is the reason people come to this boardwalk. The arcades, the rides, the aquarium, the bars—it’s all packed into this stretch. Even if you’re just here for the beach, you’ll end up at Jenks at some point.
The arcades pull in kids, teenagers, and adults who swear they’re only watching, but we all know they’re here to play.
South Arcade is the biggest, filled with ticket games, basketball shots, and skeeball machines that have been here forever. Claw machines are a trap, but people still crowd around them. A heads up: If you plan on playing, the 3-5 PM Half-Price Arcade Happy Hour makes all the difference.
The aquarium is one of the few indoor spots, so if you need a break from the sun, it’s worth a stop. Sharks, penguins, and touch tanks make it an easy win for kids. But if you’re here without them, you’ll probably be in and out quickly.
The rides lean heavily toward younger kids. Bumper cars, the Himalaya, and the sky ride still have their fans, though you’re not going to experience anything high-speed or intense.
Perhaps the biggest thing you need to keep in mind is that you can expect to spend money. Ride tickets, arcade games, and food add up fast. So, if you want to stretch it out, look for ride cards and arcade specials ahead of time.
Where to Eat on the Boardwalk
You don’t come to Boardwalk Point Pleasant Beach expecting a five-star meal, but if you know where to go, you’ll eat well. Some places have been here forever; a few are cash grabs, but the right spots are worth the stop.
Pizza: The Move is Joey Tomato’s
There’spizza everywhere, but Joey Tomato’s is where you want to go. The slices are big, the crust is crisp, and it doesn’t taste like a frozen pie someone threw into a brick oven. Nothing fancy, but it sure is good boardwalk pizza.
Seafood: Skip the Tourist Traps, Go to Spike’s
A lot of places will serve you a fried seafood platter and call it a day. Spike’s Fish Market doesn’t do that. This is where you go for fresh fish, solid chowder, and a lobster roll that actually has lobster in it.
In case you’re sticking to the boardwalk, The Food Shack is one of the better options.
Sweets: South Beach Sweets is the Spot
For the sweet tooths out there, you’ll want to check out South Beach Sweets. They’ve been here for decades, and you can tell they care about what they’re making: Saltwater taffy that doesn’t taste like rubber, fudge worth the price, and every kind of classic boardwalk candy you can think of.
Ice Cream: Walk to Hoffman’s
There’s ice cream on the boardwalk, and then there’s Hoffman’s. You have to walk a little to get there, but it’s better than anything else around.
Point Pleasant Boardwalk at Night
Of course, spending time on the boardwalk at night is different than during the day. The crowd shifts, the bars fill up, and you might end up somewhere that’s already shutting down if you’re not paying attention.
Here’s what happens at night and what you need to know.
Bars & Live Music
As Point Pleasant Boardwalk nightlife goes, Jenks is the main event. It has live bands early, DJs later, and a crowd that can either be a great time or way too packed, depending on what you’re looking for. Drinks aren’t cheap, cover charges are a thing, and if you’re not in the mood for a full-on Jersey Shore bar scene, this isn’t going to be for you.
For something more relaxed, Martell’s Tiki Bar is a great option. It’s right on the water and a better choice if you want to hang out rather than deal with a packed dance floor.
What’s Open Late?
Not everything on the boardwalk runs all night. Most arcades stay open, but the crowds thin out as the night goes on. If you want to win prizes, this is when you go—it’s easier when there aren’t a hundred kids running around taking over every machine.
Rides also keep going late, and the lines are usually shorter after dark. If you’re not interested in dealing with long waits during the day, night is the time to go. Shops, though, close early. If you’re planning to grab souvenirs or beach gear, do it before dinner.
Off the Boards: What Else is Worth Checking Out in Point Pleasant
There are plenty of things to do in Point Pleasant, NJ, besides walking the boards. Whether the crowds are too much or you’re looking for a different vibe, these spots are worth checking out.
Point Pleasant Beach: Getting a Spot in the Summer
The main public beach near the boardwalk is packed by noon in peak season. For more space, head south toward Bay Head or Mantoloking. It’s quieter, there’s more room, and the water’s the same.
Keep in mind that there are private areas, so check access before heading down.
Parks & Water Activities
- Manasquan River – A calmer alternative to the ocean. Good for kayaking and paddleboarding, with rental shops nearby.
- Fishing Charters – Boats go out from the inlet daily. More fun (and better chances of catching something) than standing on the pier.
- Island Beach State Park – If you want a totally different beach experience, this park has dunes, hiking trails, and miles of undeveloped coastline.
Shops & Markets Worth Checking Out
- Point Pleasant Antique Emporium – A mix of vintage finds, collectibles, and random things you didn’t know you wanted.
- Bay Head’s Local Boutiques – A few minutes south, smaller shops with beach gear, home goods, and locally made stuff.
- Jersey Shore Farmers Market – If you’re around on the weekend, this is where you’ll find fresh seafood, baked goods, and produce from local farms.
The Logistics: Planning Your Visit Without Losing Your Mind
Visiting Point Pleasant, New Jersey, Boardwalk can be great—if you know what you’re dealing with. Parking is a hassle; crowds can get out of control, and prices have crept up over the years.
Here’s what to expect and how to make it easier on yourself.
Parking: A Necessary Evil
Finding a spot isn’t easy, and it’s not cheap. The town runs metered lots and street parking, and private lots charge whatever they want. $2.50+ per hour is standard, but on busy weekends, private lots can push way higher.
Best bets:
- Early morning (before 10 AM) – The best time to find street parking or grab a cheaper lot.
- Later in the day (after 4 PM) – Some private lots open up as day-trippers leave.
- Weekdays – Always easier than weekends, especially in peak summer.
Timing: When to Go if You Actually Want Some Breathing Room
Peak season means huge crowds from late June through early September. If you want a less chaotic experience, plan around these windows:
- Early June or after Labor Day – Warm weather, smaller crowds.
- Weeknights instead of weekends – Less packed, but still enough going on.
- Mornings instead of afternoons – More space on the beach, easier parking.
What’s Changed Over the Years?
If you haven’t been to Point Pleasant, New Jersey Boardwalk in a while, you’ll notice a few things:
- Beach fees are higher – Up to $10 per person for a badge.
- More paid parking – Fewer free options and private lots keep pushing prices up.
- Crowds keep growing – Thanks to social media and day-trippers, even weekday afternoons get busy in peak season.
Final Thoughts on the Point Pleasant, New Jersey Boardwalk
For better or worse, the Point Pleasant, New Jersey, Boardwalk hasn’t changed much. The rides are the same, the arcades still eat your money, and the food is still a mix of classic boardwalk eats and overpriced tourist traps. But that hasn’t stopped people from coming back every year.
Whether it’s worth the trip depends on what you’re looking for. If you know the right spots to eat, time your visit to avoid the worst of the crowds, and don’t mind the typical Jersey Shore chaos, Point Pleasant won’t likely be a day out you’ll regret.
So, do you think you’ll be popping down here anytime soon?
