Surprise, One of the Best Boardwalks in U.S. Is Closer Than You Think

There are over 1500 miles of coastline in Massachusetts and yet bustling boardwalks are almost non-existent.

Though there are beautiful waterfronts walkways, like the Hurricane Barrier in New Bedford, and classic wooden boardwalks, like Salisbury Beach, the long stretches of sandy beachfront lined with food, shopping and entertainment aren't really around in the Bay State.

But that doesn't mean you can find that kind of summer fun nearby. In fact, one of the newly dubbed 'best boardwalks in the U.S.' is much closer than you might think.

Get our free mobile app

Typically when you think of busy, summer boardwalks, you might think Atlantic City, New Jersey or Venice Beach, California. Yet a New England boardwalk has beaten them both on USA Today's 2025 list of America's 10 Best Boardwalks.

What Is New England's Best Boardwalk?

Surprisingly those big name boardwalks only landed at 6th and 7th on the list respectively, but way up at #2 was a boardwalk in New London, Connecticut.

READ MORE: Connecticut's Newest Water Park Opening Day Just Days Away

If you've never visited Ocean Beach Park in Connecticut before, you may want to plan a day trip for this summer.

What Attractions Are At Ocean Beach Park?

The beautiful half-mile stretch of sandy beach also comes with lots of classic boardwalks attractions.

There's a carousel and other carnival rides, spray park, playground and even a triple water slide to keep the kids entertained whether they want to swim or not. There's also the salty Long Island Sound to take a dip in, as well as an Olympic-sized swimming pool if the open waters aren't your thing.

READ MORE: See the SouthCoast's Sweetest Swimming Pools

Even on cooler days Ocean Beach has nature walks with heron and osprey for birders, a mini golf course for putters and an arcade for gamers.

A great option for those who want some serious fun this summer without having to plan an entire vacation.