Ventnor and Margate

A few minutes south of Atlantic City, the Boardwalk continues into Ventnor City, where the scene changes completely. Gone are the casino towers and crowds, replaced by a wide, peaceful promenade lined with beach blocks, small cafes and local homes. Further south lies Margate City, home to Lucy the Elephant and a polished, family-oriented beach community. Together these towns offer a relaxed alternative to the resort district, ideal for a morning walk or bike ride, a beach picnic or a seafood lunch with an ocean breeze.

The Ventnor boardwalk is the highlight. It is a calmer version of the Atlantic City original, with space to walk or cycle, benches facing the water and easy access to the beach. Joggers and dog walkers use it in the early morning, families wander in the afternoon and couples take sunset strolls. A fishing pier extends into the ocean, giving anglers and onlookers a chance to enjoy open water views. Small shops and snack stands sell ice cream, coffee and beach supplies, and a handful of restaurants serve fresh seafood and casual fare.

Margate adds its own charms. The beaches are wide, clean and lifeguarded in season, and the town has a reputation for being tidy and family-friendly. Lucy the Elephant draws visitors who want a photo and a tour. The neighborhood cafes and bakeries are good places for breakfast or an afternoon treat, and local boutiques offer gifts and beachwear. If you are traveling by car, parking and beach access rules vary by municipality and season, so check posted signs and local guidance. Beach tags may be required in summer.

A flexible plan works well. Start in Atlantic City with breakfast, then walk or ride south along the boardwalk into Ventnor, where the pace slows. Stop at the pier, take a beach break and have lunch in town. Continue to Margate for Lucy and an afternoon swim, then return by rideshare, bike or a short drive. The route is largely flat, making it comfortable for families, though sun and wind exposure can be significant, so bring water, sunscreen and layers. Bike rentals are available seasonally near the Atlantic City end.

This area is a good choice if you are staying in Atlantic City but crave a break from the crowds. It shows another side of the island, a lived-in seaside community with a long history and loyal fans. You can combine it with a wildlife drive or a visit to the lighthouse for a varied day.

Respect local rules, keep noise down in residential areas and be mindful of private property near the beach. Treat it as a gentle, scenic contrast to the neon, and you will likely find it the most relaxing part of your trip.

If you are cycling, start early to avoid the heat and the busiest walking hours, and carry a lock for stops. Water fountains and shops are available at intervals, but bring your own bottle anyway. Stop at the pier to watch anglers at work, and ask what they are catching. In Margate, a short detour to a bakery or coffee shop breaks up the route nicely. If energy flags, rideshare or a taxi can bring you back, and the return trip is a good moment to watch the skyline grow larger on the horizon.