115. Soft Pretzels
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They make some of these soft pretzels so big, they could be a snack for two or three people, so A+ for efficiency! It’s always great to get a taste of something salty at the beach that isn’t an accidental gulp of seawater.
214. Donuts
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You’ve got variety, they’re easy to transport, and anyone can grab one they like! Sure, donuts don’t immediately come to mind as a beach snack, but incredible chains like Fractured Prune began in Ocean City, MD.
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313. Smash Burgers
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A trend we’ll always be behind, this technique of flattening a patty on the griddle has shown up on the boardwalk for a good reason. One eatery on the Venice boardwalk, The Window, got so popular that you can find a million smash burgers in Los Angeles now.
412. Popcorn
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All flavors of popcorn are great on the boardwalk, but there’s something particularly great about digging into a handful of well-made caramel corn after a swim in the ocean. It’s the perfect marriage of the crunchy texture and buttery flavor of the popcorn and the gorgeous caramel.
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511. Saltwater Taffy
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Originating in New Jersey, saltwater taffy is delightfully chewy, and most places have so many different flavors that there will probably be something that appeals to you.
610. Pizza
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I mean, it’s sort of cheating, because pizza incredible just about anywhere, but the ease of folding up a slice and eating it as you walk along the boardwalk makes it great when you’re out at the beach.
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79. Funnel Cake
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Some might associate a funnel cake more with the fair, but a fresh funnel cake is one of the most ideal sweet-savory balanced snacks to have just about anywhere, including the boardwalk! They’re amazing just dusted with sugar, but look out for an adventurous spot that does other toppings like chocolate, maple syrup, strawberries and more.
88. Ice Cream
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You can enjoy a soft serve just about anywhere, but something about a cone on the boardwalk just improves the taste by association. Don’t let it drop!
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97. Oysters
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Especially with a cold beer to wash them down, fresh oysters taste way better at the beach than in a restaurant. If you’re squeamish about seafood and haven’t tried these yet, just know you’re willingly missing out on an incredible boardwalk experience.
106. Frozen Lemonade
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There’s a million delicious regional varieties of cool, refreshing popsicles and shaved ice, but one of the best is a frozen lemonade. Whether it’s the store-bought Minute Maid variety or a frozen homemade recipe, this will more than hit the spot on a hot day.
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115. Crab Cakes
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There’s nothing more satisfying than a good crab cake, and it’s even better on a bun with some fries. But honestly, a sweet and succulent crab cake is pretty much a star on its own without any fixings. Obviously, you’ll need to be in Maryland for the best results, but don’t let that stop you from ordering a crab cake elsewhere!
124. Fudge
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If you’re interested in the chewy texture of saltwater taffy but don’t like the taste, tons of candy shops on boardwalks have plenty of options, but fresh fudge is a rich and decadent beach treat. This is another case of the beauty of the sweet-and-salty balance, as a block of fudge really comes alive with some sea salt dusted on the top or a savory pairing flavor like some peanut butter.
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133. Fried Shrimp
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Even if you’re completely cautious of seafood, fried shrimps are a delicious way into loving seafood more. Plus they’ll be paired with a delicious sauce to dip them in like a cocktail sauce or a sharp blue cheese sauce.
142. Hot Dogs
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A fresh hot dog is an ideal pick-me-up when you’re getting a little tired halfway through the beach trip and considering bailing early. Nathan’s Hot Dogs pretty much has a monopoly on the boardwalk frank scene, and also have incredible crinkle-cut fries and other options like pretzels. But plenty of other local spots have delicious dogs too, so don’t count them out!
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151. French Fries
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Even if they’re usually a side dish, French fries are absolutely incredible on the beach. Whether you just prefer them plainly salted or generously dusted in Old Bay, you can never go wrong with boardwalk fries.
Jacob is a Temporary Partnerships Editor at Hearst based in Queens, New York with his partner and cat Tiger. He loves learning and writing about Film and TV, Video Games, and the weird histories of unexpected subjects.
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