We New Yorkers have a lot going for us: creativity, culture, resilience, and, of course, the bragging rights of calling the greatest city in the world home.
One thing many of us don’t have? A car.
But honestly, who needs one? Between the subway, buses, ferries, commuter rails, and the occasional Uber, most city dwellers can get just about anywhere without ever sitting behind the wheel. In fact, for plenty of New Yorkers, renting a car for the weekend feels more stressful than navigating Times Square at rush hour.
That’s why finding a summer getaway that’s just as easy to explore on foot can feel like striking gold.
According to a new study ranking America’s best “coolcation” destinations, one beloved beach town just a few hours from NYC is one of the country’s most walkable coastal escapes—meaning you can step off the train (or bus), leave your luggage at the hotel, and spend the rest of your vacation strolling between the beach, boardwalk, restaurants, shops, and attractions without ever needing a car.
Even better? It’s also one of the most affordable seaside getaways in the country, with clean swimming water, hundreds of things to do, and all the nostalgic Jersey Shore charm that makes for the perfect summer escape.
The Data Behind the “Coolcation” Trend
The term “coolcationing” (seeking out seaside or climate-friendly summer spots that offer value, coastal breezes, and easy living) has taken off, and a comprehensive study by cabinet manufacturing firm Highland Cabinetry put the numbers behind the hype.
To find the top coastal towns for seasonal residents and weekend retreaters alike, researchers evaluated metro areas across seven key metrics:
- Real Estate & Value: Median home prices and overall cost-of-living metrics relative to national averages.
- Pedestrian Access: Walkability scores measuring how easily daily errands and leisure activities can be done on foot.
- Safety & Security: Resident safety indexes and neighborhood peace of mind.
- Coastal Conditions: Average summer temperatures and coastal water quality testing.
- Entertainment & Dining: Total density of restaurants, cultural spots, and attractions outside of the beach itself.
While Santa Barbara, California took the top overall honors for climate and volume of attractions, Atlantic City dominated as the #1 most pedestrian-friendly escape while offering unmatched affordability.
Why Atlantic City Takes the Crown for Walkability & Value
- Top-Tier Walkability: Atlantic City earned a 74 walkability score, officially making it the most pedestrian-accessible summer destination in the rankings. The world-famous wooden boardwalk stretches continuously along the oceanfront, connecting hotels, eateries, piers, and beaches without a single car cross-street to worry about.
- Real Budget Relief: While Hamptons or Jersey Shore rentals can drain a bank account in a single weekend, Atlantic City stands out for true affordability, with median home values averaging around $220,000. That low cost of entry translates directly to more reasonable hotel rates, food prices, and travel expenses for visitors.
- Pristine Water Quality: Beachgoers don’t have to compromise on coastal standards for affordability. Environmental testing revealed that Atlantic City’s ocean waters meet safety and cleanliness standards 97% of the time, ensuring clean, comfortable swimming all season long.
What to Do on Foot: Beaches, Bites, and Boardwalk Energy
- Hit the Free Public Beaches: Unlike many North Jersey shore towns that charge steep daily badge fees, Atlantic City’s sprawling white-sand beaches are completely free to the public.
- Stroll the Historic Boardwalk & Steel Pier: Walk the iconic 4-mile wooden promenade. Stop by the Steel Pier for classic amusement rides, wheel views over the ocean, and classic shore treats like salt water taffy and boardwalk fries.
- Explore Over 180 Attractions & Culinary Hotspots: With dozens of beachfront bars, open-air beer gardens, and casino resorts lining the strip, you can jump from daytime beach lounging to world-class dining and live entertainment in minutes.
- Shop Tax-Free Outlets: Just a short walk inland from the boardwalk sits the Tanger Outlets, offering pedestrian-only outdoor shopping across dozens of brand-name stores.
How to Get There from NYC (No Driving Required)
Getting out of Manhattan and onto the Atlantic City boardwalk is seamless via transit:
- Direct Bus (The Fastest Route): Hop on the NJ Transit Route 319 Bus directly out of Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown. It runs express right into the Atlantic City Bus Terminal in about 2.5 hours—dropping you off just blocks from the oceanfront boardwalk.
- By Train: Take NJ Transit rail from Penn Station (with an easy transfer via Philadelphia or Lindenwold) straight into the Atlantic City Rail Terminal. From there, free local shuttles (the AC Jitney) or a short 10-minute walk put you right at the beach.
Skip the rental counter, leave the traffic on the Expressway, and enjoy a seaside weekend where the only miles you log are the ones along the surf.