Temperatures are rising and it's time to head to the beach, and Atlantic City offers plenty of fun in the sun for everyone. Catch a great performance, shop, or try your luck at one of the casinos, there are more options than you might think along Atlantic City's world-famous Boardwalk. Slip off the sandals and feel the warm sand between your toes while enjoying a cool ocean breeze because there are no badges or entrance fees for a day out at the beach in Atlantic City. And, the beaches are even equipped with handicap access ramps so everyone can enjoy the sand and surf. So pack your family and friends for a refreshing escape.
Splash around in the water when you need to cool off, and know that someone is always watching; Atlantic City's professional lifesaving squad. They are on staff throughout the summer season between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., so you can feel safe testing the Atlantic Ocean's waves. After a swim stroll along the waters edge, or take a light jog, or if you're up to it join the annual Atlantic City Marathon. For over forty years, athletes have tested their strength and stamina by participating in this 26.2-mile marathon that is known for its flat and fast course. The race not only has people running on the world-famous Boardwalk, it also takes runners through the streets of Atlantic City as well as the neighboring communities of Ventnor, Margate and Longport.
If water sports are more your style there are beaches designated for the adventurous as well. Head over to Crystal Beach at New Hampshire Avenue, Delaware Avenue Beach or Downtown Beach at Raleigh Avenue to catch the surfers showing off their skills. Kayaking and windsurfing enthusiasts can bring their equipment down to Jackson Avenue beach and spend hours out on the water. Volleyball players can also start a game with other beach goers at nets located in front of several hotels along the beach. A favorite pastime of many of those at the beach is constructing sandcastles, or bring along your rod and go and fishing, which is permitted on the jetties along Maine Avenue and the Boardwalk as well as in the inlet off of the Boardwalk. There is no fishing license required for these areas. When was the last time you fished off a boat in the water? Look for local fishing and cruising charters available at several city locations.
A day trip out to Atlantic City is just as fun when timed with regional entertainment and festivals to join along the Boardwalk. During spring, there are two major parades held in Atlantic City. In March, the St. Patrick's Day Parade, one of the city's largest parades, has everyone attending seeing green. The Easter holiday is celebrated on the Boardwalk with the Atlantic City Easter Parade. This is the time to show off your Sunday best and take a peek at the Miss New Jersey contestants.
While there are plenty of concerts to choose from while in Atlantic City, one free concert series take place every summer right on the Boardwalk at Kennedy Plaza, located at Mississippi Avenue. On Thursday nights in July and, you can enjoy the well known and local jazz musicians along with during the Chicken Bone Beach Jazz Concert Series.
The month of August is definitely packed with events. The Puerto Rican Parade also takes place on the Boardwalk in August. But the big show everyone talks about at the end of the summer is the Atlantic City Airshow - "Thunder Over the Boardwalk," takes place in August over both Atlantic City and the Atlantic Ocean. The Boardwalk provides the best view and the event is absolutely free. Watch as members of the US Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Navy and civilian owned aircrafts showcase their skills. The day is packed with demonstrations, flybys and search and rescues. And if you can't get out that day to watch the Airshow, maybe you can catch a few jumps, rolls or flybys the day before, as the participants practice for the event.
Plan Your Getaway To Atlantic City?
For complete details on vacation packages, attractions, events, and entertainment visit the Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority website at www.atlanticcitynj.com.
By Melody Schubert
By Melody Schubert
Photo Credits: Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority