Salt water taffy is one of those nostalgic treats that instantly brings to mind summer vacations, boardwalk strolls, and old-fashioned candy shops. Its chewy texture, vibrant colors, and variety of flavors make it a favorite among candy lovers of all ages. While the name might suggest it’s made with ocean water, salt water taffy actually contains no seawater at all it gets its name from the seaside origins of this sweet. If you’re a fan or simply curious, discovering the best salt water taffy can be a delightful and flavorful adventure.
What Makes Great Salt Water Taffy?
To find the best salt water taffy, it’s important to understand what sets high-quality taffy apart from the rest. Several factors contribute to the perfect piece:
- Texture: Good taffy should be soft, chewy, and not too sticky.
- Flavor: A wide range of bold and true-to-name flavors is a mark of quality.
- Freshness: Taffy that’s been recently made or properly sealed will have a smoother chew.
- Variety: From classic vanilla to adventurous flavors like chili mango or cotton candy, the more variety, the better the experience.
The best salt water taffy typically comes from companies that have been perfecting their recipes for decades. Many are still hand-pulling the candy and wrapping each piece individually for freshness and charm.
Top Places Known for the Best Salt Water Taffy
Shriver’s Ocean City, New Jersey
Shriver’s is one of the oldest names in the salt water taffy business, established in 1898. Located on the boardwalk of Ocean City, New Jersey, they are known for using traditional techniques and offering a wide range of flavors. Their taffy is light, smooth, and not overly sticky. Popular flavors include mint, molasses, and chocolate peanut butter. If you’re looking for a classic, Shriver’s is a top contender for the best salt water taffy in the U.S.
James’ Candy Company Atlantic City, New Jersey
Another pioneer in the salt water taffy world, James’ Candy has been around since 1880 and is often credited with helping to popularize the treat along the Atlantic coast. Their taffy is soft and creamy, with nostalgic packaging that appeals to traditionalists. From lemon to cinnamon to root beer, the flavor options are both classic and fun. It’s a go-to for anyone visiting the Atlantic City boardwalk.
Taffy Town Salt Lake City, Utah
Although it’s not located by the sea, Taffy Town produces some of the best salt water taffy in the country. With over 75 years of experience, they’ve perfected a whipped taffy recipe that makes their candy exceptionally soft. They offer more than 80 unique flavors, including huckleberry, maple bacon, and cinnamon roll. Taffy Town’s gluten-free, nut-free, and kosher options make it a standout for people with dietary needs.
Seaside Candies Seaside, Oregon
Located right along the Pacific coast, Seaside Candies makes taffy fresh daily. They use traditional methods, and the candy has a slightly firmer texture than some others, which many fans actually prefer. Popular flavors include marionberry, banana, and chocolate fudge. The shop’s small-batch production and charming seaside vibe contribute to their reputation for high-quality salt water taffy.
Zeno’s Boardwalk Sweet Shop Daytona Beach, Florida
Down in Florida, Zeno’s claims to make the world’s most famous taffy, and many fans agree. Their taffy is super soft and melts in your mouth. With innovative flavors like key lime pie, piña colada, and buttered popcorn, they keep things exciting while maintaining the classic appeal. Zeno’s also allows customers to customize flavor mixes, which makes their taffy a great option for gifting.
Unique Flavors to Try
While traditional flavors like vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate will always have a place, the world of salt water taffy has evolved. Many of the best taffy brands now offer fun and unexpected flavors that keep customers coming back. Some popular unique options include:
- Salted caramel
- Green apple
- Licorice
- Watermelon
- Neapolitan (strawberry, chocolate, vanilla in one piece)
- Peach mango
- Pumpkin spice (seasonal)
Trying a mixed bag from a reputable brand is often the best way to explore these varieties and discover your personal favorites.
How to Store and Enjoy Salt Water Taffy
To keep salt water taffy at its best, it’s important to store it properly. Heat and humidity can make it overly sticky or cause it to melt, while cold temperatures can harden it to an uncomfortable chew.
Storage Tips:
- Keep it at room temperature in a cool, dry place.
- Store it in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
- Avoid direct sunlight or leaving it in a car on a hot day.
When enjoying salt water taffy, don’t rush. Let it warm slightly in your mouth before chewing to get the full burst of flavor and the perfect texture. It’s not a candy meant to be crunched, but savored slowly for its unique melt-in-the-mouth feel.
Why People Love Salt Water Taffy
Beyond the taste and texture, salt water taffy carries a sense of nostalgia and joy. For many, it’s tied to fond childhood memories of beach vacations or candy store visits. Its individually wrapped pieces make it easy to share, collect, or gift. With so many flavors and varieties, there’s always something new to try, yet it still maintains a timeless appeal.
Finding the best salt water taffy depends on personal taste, but there’s no shortage of great options to explore. From the historic candy shops of the New Jersey boardwalks to the innovative flavors from newer brands, salt water taffy remains a classic American treat. Whether you’re looking for a sweet souvenir, a unique gift, or a nostalgic trip down memory lane, high-quality salt water taffy offers a chewy, flavorful experience that continues to delight generations of candy lovers.