Coastlines around the globe are decorated with striking piers hovering above the ocean and boardwalks hugging the sand. Some are simple wooden jetties and terraces with a long, working history; others are kitsch pleasure piers lovingly restored from their Victorian heyday. Here we reveal the age-old piers and boardwalks that have stood the test of time, showing not only what they used to look like but what they look like now as well.

Click or scroll through the gallery to discover how historic seafronts have changed over the years...