Star Card Login
Play Online
Atlantic City has been one of America’s most beloved beach destinations for over 150 years, and for good reason. Miles of free, open shoreline. The world-famous Boardwalk. World-class dining, live entertainment, and a casino resort sitting right on the sand. Whether you’re planning a long weekend or a full summer escape, this guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your Atlantic City beach vacation, with Resorts Casino Hotel as your home base.
Atlantic City’s Beach: What to Expect
Atlantic City’s beach is one of the best-kept secrets on the Jersey Shore, because it’s completely free. Stretching along the entire length of the Boardwalk, the wide, sandy shoreline is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and offers easy access right off the boards. Whether you’re looking to spread out with a beach chair and a book or dive into the waves, there’s room for everyone.
- Free and open to the public daily
- Lifeguards on duty during the summer season
- Accessible surf chairs and public restrooms are available
- Biking is allowed on the Boardwalk from 6 a.m. to noon in designated areas during the summer
- Motorbikes, smoking, and outside alcohol are not permitted on the beach
The Atlantic City Boardwalk, A Beach Vacation Essential
No Atlantic City beach vacation is complete without time spent on the Boardwalk. Opened in 1870, it’s one of the most iconic stretches of beachfront in the world, four miles of ocean views, shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment, all steps from the sand.
Staying at Resorts AC puts you directly on the Boardwalk, giving you the most convenient access to everything it has to offer. Start your morning with a sunrise walk or a bike ride along the boardwalk, grab a coffee, and ease into your beach day, or end your evening with a sunset stroll and a drink at one of the Boardwalk bars.
Boardwalk highlights near Resorts AC:
- LandShark Bar & Grill: The only year-round, full-service bar and restaurant on the sand side of the Boardwalk. Award-winning and steps from your room.
- Maya Bar: Seasonal boardwalk bar serving margaritas and tapas
- Steel Pier: Classic amusement pier with rides, including The Wheel, soaring over the ocean
- North Beach Mini Golf & Bike Rentals: Great for families and casual afternoons
- Atlantic City Boardwalk shops and saltwater taffy, A Jersey Shore tradition
Beach Activities in Atlantic City
Beyond sunbathing and swimming, Atlantic City’s beach has no shortage of ways to stay active and entertained.
- Swimming: The Atlantic City shoreline is wide and open, with calm conditions great for families
- Surfing: Surf conditions vary by season; boards can be rented nearby
- Parasailing: Seasonal operators along the shore offer aerial views of the coastline
- Fishing: Shore fishing is popular along the beach and nearby inlets
- Beach volleyball: Open courts available along the shore during summer
- Water sports: Jet ski and kayak rentals available seasonally near the beach
Best Time to Visit Atlantic City for a Beach Vacation
Atlantic City has something to offer year-round, but summer is when the beach truly comes alive.
Summer (June–August)
Peak beach season. The shoreline is buzzing, LandShark’s outdoor deck is packed, and Resorts AC hosts its biggest events, from beachside concerts to VIP summer experiences. Memorial Day Weekend kicks off the season with signature events on the beach. Book early as rooms fill fast.
Shoulder Season (May & September)
Ideal for those who want the beach without the crowds. The weather is mild, rates are often lower, and the Boardwalk is still lively. Atlantic City’s beach is free and open year-round.
Fall & Winter
A quieter, more local experience. Resorts AC’s heated indoor/outdoor pool and full amenity lineup mean your trip doesn’t depend on the weather.
Why Stay at Resorts AC for Your Beach Vacation
There’s no better base for an Atlantic City beach vacation than Resorts Casino Hotel. Sitting directly on the Boardwalk at North Beach, Resorts AC is the only resort in Atlantic City that puts you steps from the sand, the boards, and a full lineup of world-class amenities, all under one roof.
Wake up to ocean views from your room in the Ocean Tower, walk straight out to the beach, and come back to a heated pool, award-winning dining, and live entertainment waiting for you on the property. This isn’t just a place to sleep, it’s where your beach vacation actually happens.
What sets Resorts AC apart:
- Private beach access: No commute, no parking. The sand is steps from your door
- Rooms with ocean views: Floor-to-ceiling views of the Atlantic from your room
- LandShark Bar & Grill: Atlantic City’s only year-round beachside bar and restaurant, right on the sand side of the Boardwalk
- Heated indoor/outdoor pool: Open year-round with Boardwalk views and a poolside bar
- 10+ restaurants and dining options: From casual beachside eats to award-winning Italian
- Live entertainment and beach concerts: Music and events all season long, steps from your room
- Casino gaming 24/7: 1,500 slots and 50 table games whenever you’re ready
Plan Your Atlantic City Beach Weekend
Already sold? Here’s everything else you need to round out a perfect Atlantic City beach vacation with Resorts AC.
Eat Well, Drink Better – 10+ restaurants from beachside casual to award-winning Italian [Explore Dining]
Live Music & Events – Concerts, shows, and beach events all season long [See What’s On]
Your Ocean View Awaits – Spacious rooms and suites steps from the Boardwalk [View Rooms]
Make It a Deal – Exclusive packages designed for the perfect beach getaway [See Packages]
Everything You Need – From our heated indoor/outdoor pool to the full-service spa and more, explore everything Resorts AC has to offer [Explore Amenities]
Frequently Asked Questions About Atlantic City Beach Vacations
Is the Atlantic City beach free?
Yes, Atlantic City’s beach is completely free and open to the public year-round. The beach is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. during the season, and no badge or fee is required, which makes it one of the most accessible beaches on the entire Jersey Shore. Guests staying at Resorts AC have private beach access directly from the property.
What is there to do at the Atlantic City beach?
Atlantic City’s beach offers swimming, surfing, fishing, parasailing, beach volleyball, and water sports rentals, depending on the season. The Boardwalk runs the full length of the beach and adds even more to the mix, dining, rides at Steel Pier, mini golf, bike rentals, shopping, and live entertainment. Guests staying at Resorts AC can also enjoy the heated indoor/outdoor pool and LandShark Bar & Grill right on the property.
When is the best time to visit Atlantic City for a beach vacation?
June through August is peak beach season in Atlantic City, with warm weather, a buzzing Boardwalk, and Resorts AC’s full slate of summer events and concerts. May and September offer a quieter, more relaxed experience with mild weather and lower hotel rates. Resorts AC is a great year-round destination thanks to amenities like the heated indoor/outdoor pool and spa that make any season enjoyable.
How far is Resorts Casino Hotel from the beach?
Resorts Casino Hotel is directly on the Atlantic City Boardwalk at North Beach. Guests have private beach access steps from the hotel entrance. There is no commute, no parking, and no walking a mile down the boards. You step outside, and you’re there.
What should I pack for an Atlantic City beach vacation?
For a beach day in Atlantic City, pack sunscreen, a beach towel, a hat, and water shoes for the shoreline. If you plan to bike the Boardwalk, consider bringing a lock for rentals. Since Atlantic City’s Boardwalk has no shortage of restaurants, shops, and bars nearby, you don’t need to over-pack food or drinks. LandShark Bar & Grill has you covered for beachside eats and cocktails all day long.
