Williams Candy Shop

"Do you like your candy and other sweets unwrapped? Founded in 1941, Williams, just steps from the Coney Island boardwalk, sells candy apples in several varieties, chocolate-covered marshmallows, cotton candy, lots of sticky candy featuring shredded coconut, sour belts, and freshly made caramel corn." - Robert Sietsema

"This is your grandfather’s candy store, and we mean that as a compliment. This Coney Island institution, open since 1941, boasts a fittingly old-school, nostalgic lineup of homemade goodies, like cotton candy, fudge, caramel marshmallow sticks, and candy apples. Ice cream is also a must, given that they’re less than a quarter-mile from the beach. The bulk candy options at William’s include wax bottles, Mary Janes, peach rings, and salt water taffy, all of which are guaranteed to pair well with both sea air and hot dogs—you might want to come here after visiting Nathan’s right next door." - molly fitzpatrick, will hartman, willa moore

"After a day full of hot dogs and fried things, you might just want Tums and a nap on the beach—or you might be in the mood for something sweet. If you’re the kind of person who knows that desserts go to a different part of the stomach than other types of food, go to William’s Candy Shop. This small spot next to Nathan’s is full of colorful cotton candy, various types of candy apples, and soft serve." - neha talreja, bryan kim, matt tervooren, kenny yang

"Williams signature candy apples come in a variety of inventive flavors, such as caramel with rainbow sprinkles and red candy with coconut. You can also enjoy delicious amusement park essentials like cotton candy, popcorn, marshmallow treats, lollipops, and ice cream. Its located on the liveliest area of Surf Ave just next to Nathan's." - work x work

"Williams is the place to satisfy a candy apple craving. But there’s also ice cream, homemade marshmallow treats, and an array of others items for those with a sweet tooth." - Sarah Weldon