Jenkinson's Boardwalk: A Family Guide (Point Pleasant Beach, NJ)
Jenkinson's Boardwalk is one of the most popular family destinations on the Jersey Shore, packing a beach, amusement rides, an aquarium, arcades, mini-golf, and restaurants into one walkable oceanfront stretch.
Overview
The boardwalk lets a family do a little of everything in a day, from beach time to rides to the aquarium, with arcades, mini-golf, sweet shops, and seasonal events like fireworks and movies on the beach mixed in. Beach and boardwalk access is free, and the attractions are paid separately, so families can balance free beach time against paid fun to fit almost any budget.
Why Kids Love It (and What They Learn)
Sensory Exploration: Sand, surf, salt air, and the lights and sounds of the boardwalk give children rich, full-body sensory input.
Gross Motor Skills: Beach play, walking the boardwalk, and gentle rides are active, whole-body play.
Happy Day Play’s Tips and Tricks
Lead with beach and boardwalk time, which is free, then add paid attractions as the day goes.
Restrooms, changing facilities, and food are along the boardwalk, so set up near an entrance for quick trips with little ones.
The aquarium is a great indoor break when the sun gets to be too much, and summer evenings bring fireworks and beach movies.
Know Before You Go
General Admission: Boardwalk free; rides pay-per-credit ($1/credit); 3-hr wristband $48.95-$52.95; beach ages 12+ $14-$15, under 12 free
Add-Ons: Five paid parking lots; mini golf ($10-$14.75), Fun House ($8-$14), ropes course ($7-$15), aquarium
Stroller Friendly: Yes
Nursing Rooms: None
Family Restrooms: None, regular bathrooms only
Food: Yes - Boardwalk Bar & Grill, Joey Tomato's, Little Mac's, Perks Cafe, Mister Softee, more
Sensory Inclusion: Not listed (Sensory Saturday applies to the aquarium only)
Getting There and Parking
Take NJ Transit to Point Pleasant Beach, or drive and use the paid lots near the boardwalk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jenkinson's Boardwalk good for toddlers? Yes. The free beach, gentle rides, and the walkable boardwalk make it easy with toddlers, and the aquarium is a good cool-down.
How much does it cost? Boardwalk and beach access is free, and the rides, aquarium, arcade, and mini-golf are paid separately.
Is it indoor or outdoor? It is an outdoor, seasonal beach and boardwalk, with the indoor aquarium alongside.
Is there parking? Yes, there are paid lots near the boardwalk, and NJ Transit serves Point Pleasant Beach.
How long should we plan to stay? A full day, mixing beach, rides, and the aquarium.
Contact Info
jenkinsons.com | (732) 892-0600 | @jenkinsonsboardwalk | 300 Ocean Ave, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
