Brigantine Beach Path: A Quieter Shore Cycling Experience

A Quieter Shore Experience

Just north of Atlantic City, across the Brigantine bridge, lies a different kind of Jersey Shore cycling experience. The Brigantine Beach Path offers a peaceful alternative to the bustling Atlantic City Boardwalk — a place where you can ride along protected dunes, listen to the waves, and enjoy the simple beauty of the coast without the crowds.

Route Overview

Distance: 6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Surface: Mixed paved path and road
Estimated time: 45-60 minutes

The Route

Start at the Brigantine bridge parking area and ride north along Brigantine Boulevard. The path runs parallel to the road with ocean views on one side and protected dunes on the other. The surface is a mix of paved path and smooth road, suitable for all bike types.

The main path extends about 3 miles north before reaching the quieter residential section of Brigantine. Turn around at any point, or continue to explore the residential streets for a longer ride.

What Makes Brigantine Special

Protected dunes: The path runs along protected sand dunes that are home to shorebirds and other wildlife. It's a more natural coastal experience than the developed boardwalk.

Wildlife viewing: Brigantine is known for its bird population. Bring binoculars if you're a bird watcher — you'll see everything from ospreys to sandpipers.

Quieter atmosphere: Brigantine is a residential beach town, not a tourist destination. The pace is slower and the crowds are smaller, even in summer.

Ocean views: The path offers unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean the entire way, without the buildings and attractions that line the Atlantic City Boardwalk.

Getting There

From Atlantic City, cross the Brigantine bridge (a short, easy climb) and turn right onto Brigantine Boulevard. There's parking near the bridge and at several points along the path. By bike from Atlantic City, it's about a 2-mile ride to the start of the path.

Best Time to Ride

Sunrise: The path faces east, making sunrise rides particularly stunning. The early light over the dunes and ocean is spectacular.

Off-season: In winter, you may have the entire path to yourself. The cold, clear air and empty beaches create a serene cycling experience.

Weekday mornings: Even in summer, weekday mornings are quiet on the Brigantine path.

Combining with Other Routes

For a longer ride, combine the Brigantine Beach Path with the Atlantic City Inlet Loop. Ride the Brigantine path, cross back over the bridge, and continue to Gardner's Basin and the boardwalk for a varied 15+ mile ride.

Need a Bike?

Brigantine Bike & Beach offers rentals right in Brigantine, so you can pick up a bike and start riding without crossing the bridge.