Running Map - Coney Island Boardwalk

Brooklyn: Prospect Park, Shore Parkway, Coney Island Boardwalk, Brooklyn Marine Park, Floyd Bennett Field, Belt Parkway Bike Path, Red Hook Playground, Leon Kaiser Playground

Coney Island Boardwalk

Although this isn't the best place to run in New York City, this does add to the variety. You'll be treated with some of the sights and sounds of this tourist attraction and all its beach glory.

The Boardwalk

If you are taking the train or parking in the lot near the Coney Island attractions, you'll be starting this boardwalk run in the center of all the action. Go west and you'll be on Boardwalk West. Go east and you'll be on Boardwalk East. There is nothing complicated about this run. This beach run is approximately 2.5 miles from end to end or about a 5 mile run for an out and back in each direction.

There are some things to remember. One, this is a tourist attraction, so expect a crowd. This isn't the spot for intervals or a flat tempo run. You have to be alert. Not only are there crowds, there are also some tricky spots (loose nails and uneven boards). Be careful, because this isn't the place to take a spill. In addition to these obstacles, there are days when it is really windy, which is good and bad. It feels cool, but a big gust means sand blowing at you. Okay, enough of the negatives... The scenery and atmosphere are what makes this run special. For a stretch, you have a carnival atmosphere with all the smells that brings back memories of childhood. Best of all, you can treat yourself to a funnel cake or a Nathan's hot dog once you are done. Can you beat it?

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