Top 3 Beach Amusement Parks
Can’t decide whether to take your next trip to the beach or to an amusement park? Why not do both. This Thursday I’m counting down my Top 3 Beach Amusement Parks.

Pacific Park – Santa Monica Pier, California
This world famous beach amusement park has been featured in a number of movies including Cellular and the most recent season of 24. Its lone roller coaster is a Morgan steel coaster dubbed the Santa Monica West Coaster. It seems pretty tame, but gives great views of the Santa Monica Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The 85-foot ferris wheel is world’s only solar powered ferris wheel. More info at PacPark.com.

Astroland Amusement Park – Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York
Astroland is home to the legendary Coney Island Cyclone. It has been cloned many times, but there’s nothing like riding the original. Or at least that’s what I hear. Unfortunately, I still haven’t been myself. Plus, you’ve got the Big Apple to enjoy while you’re in the neighborhood. More info at Astroland.com.

Morey’s Piers – Wildwood, New Jersey
Morey’s Piers is located about an hour south of Atlantic City on the South Jersey shore. The park features six roller coasters including the Vekoma suspended looping coaster known as the Great Nor’Easter and (in my opinion) a Top 20 wooden coaster called Great White. The view of the Atlantic Ocean from the lift hill is breath-taking. There’s also 100 rides and attractions. Not to mention the boardwalk with plenty of food and shopping options. More info at MoreysPiers.com.

Do you have a favorite Beach Amusement Parks that I didn’t mention? Got tips for first-time visitors to any of these parks? Leave comments below. Images courtesy of CoasterImage.