Pedaling along the boardwalk to the rhythmic whoosh of the breaking waves, first on a tricycle and then on a bike, is among my favorite childhood memories. And boardwalks still make me happy. They add fun to the classic American idyll of sun, sand, and sea. Two of my favorite East Coast boardwalks unfurl in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and Miami Beach, Florida. Both delight with ocean breezes, salt spray, good food, and great people-watching, but each of these seaside paths charms with its own unique character.
Virginia Beach’s boardwalk—actually a concrete path—gains fame for its prettily landscaped, 28-foot-wide, three-mile span and for its many concerts, festivals, and other events. Bicyclists roll along separate lanes from walkers, and sea-themed sculptures brighten the boards. The 34-foot Neptune statue at 31st Street, a Virginia Beach landmark, marks Neptune Festival Park, one of three boardwalk stages hosting free outdoor performances. Hear rock, country, contemporary, tribute bands, and other music. On Atlantic Avenue, parallel to the boardwalk, mimes, magicians, and jugglers perform, drawing shoppers to the souvenir and sundry shops lining the street and to many nearby eateries.
