15 Peaceful Waterfront Bike Paths
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6. Mission Bay bike path
- Location: San Diego, California
- Where to start: Sunset Point Park (1400 Dana Landing Rd)
- Highlight: Beautiful greenery & water views
A quieter alternative to the rowdy, touristy Mission Bay Beach boardwalk, San Diego’s Mission Bay pedestrian path is a much more relaxed place to get in a workout. Biking here is a real treat due to the absence of tourist traffic, smooth flat nature of the trail, and picturesque views of the water. Biking this path is anything but a basic workout. Iconic California palm scenery, along with ongoing water views and quick access to many green parks, makes it so much more than your ordinary trail.
The trail is about 12 miles in total, with options to connect to other trails for a lengthier ride. If you have the endurance, continue on to the beautiful Fiesta Island trail or head over to the lively Mission Beach boardwalk. With the beautiful year-round mild, sunny San Diego weather, extending your workout a bit further doesn’t seem like such a bad idea!
More info on the Mission Bay bike path
7. Long Beach Pedestrian Path
- Location: Long Beach, California waterfront
- Where to start: Parker’s lighthouse (435 Shoreline Village Drive)
- Highlight: Low key with fabulous scenery, Super flat & fast
It’s so much more motivating to workout when the scenery is fabulous. The Strand isn’t the only place to bike along the beach in L.A. Another lesser known beachfront path which is just as scenic is the 3 mile Long Beach pedestrian path. I discovered this gem while living in an apartment just a few blocks away. I loved the flatness, beautiful scenery, and convenient beach access. Even more, this path is never as crowded and congested as The Strand. Featuring gorgeous views of the Pacific, this flat fast ride is just another to add to your California beach bucket list.
Another great aspect of this path is that it starts/ends near Shoreline Village, a lively entertainment/dining/shopping destination along the waterfront. Do stay and explore this wonderful touristy section of the city. Waterfront dining, cruises, and visiting an old lighthouse are just a few of the unique things you can do here.
More free things to do in Long Beach
8. Virginia Beach
- Location: Virginia Beach, Virginia boardwalk
- Where to start: Lots of parking options near the boardwalk
- Highlight: Separate biking/walking path to cut down on traffic
One of the best beach boardwalks in the country is surprisingly found in Virginia Beach. Adjacent to the boardwalk is one of the country’s most scenic bike paths. One of the great aspects of this path is that it is conveniently split into a separate pedestrian and biking path. This leads to a really smooth riding experience as you do not have to share the space with walkers and runners. Both bike and surrey rentals are available.
Enjoy 3 miles of pure beachfront bliss while you also get in a nice lower body workout. The path is flat and fast, and easy enough for beginning cyclists looking for a relaxing, low stress cruise. Simply enjoy the fresh ocean air and the amazing views of the coast as you leisurely pedal along this well-maintained path. And don’t forget to take your picture by the 12 ton bronze King Neptune statue, located about midway down the path. Post-ride, there’s lots of great restaurants with outdoor patios to choose amongst. Lots of summer events as well.
More info on the Virginia Beach boardwalk bike path
9. Ocean City boardwalk
- Location: Ocean City, Maryland boardwalk
- Where to start: Boardwalk parking lot (809 S Atlantic Ave)
- Highlight: Easy access to numerous attractions including Jolly Roger amusement park
Similar to the Virginia Beach bike path, the Ocean City boardwalk runs a picturesque 2.25 mile course along the waterfront. This is a fast, fun, and scenic ride. While it’s a bit less commercialized and the atmosphere may not be as lively & touristy, the views are still terrific. Really, who isn’t more motivated to bike or jog when accompanied by fabulous coastal scenery? On the downside, biking hours are limited during the prime summer season.
From mid-May to late September, bikes are only allowed from 2am-11am. Regardless, this should give you plenty of time to get up early, enjoy the 5 mile course, enjoy a treat at a local restaurant (Thrasher’s French fries are a must try!), and browse a few touristy shops.
More info on the Ocean City boardwalk path
10. Chicago Lakefront path
- Location: Downtown Chicago, Illinois
- Where to start: View the trail access map for parking details
- Highlight: Magnificent views of the Chicago skyline & convenient access to The Windy City’s top tourist attractions
Many tourists are not aware that there is an incredible 18 mile long paved recreational path that runs right along downtown Chicago’s beautiful lakefront. Chicago truly is the most beautiful city in the country: you can’t beat the beautiful skyline and Lake Michigan.
And it’s all free! Even better, you can enjoy a free means of transportation between Chicago’s various tourist attractions. The wonderful Field Museum, The Shedd Aquarium, the Lincoln Park Zoo, Millennium Park and many other renowned attractions are easily accessed via this convenient bike path. Also be sure to check out my full guide to Chicago’s best summer attractions.
