Tips to Vacation on Long Beach Island NJ

Discover Long Beach Island: Your Guide to Beaches, Attractions & Family Fun on LBI

Long Beach Island, affectionately known by locals and regulars as LBI, is a quintessential New Jersey barrier island destination. Stretching for 18 miles along the Atlantic coast, this beloved spot, often simply called "the shore," comes alive during the summer months, offering pristine beaches, charming towns, family-friendly activities, and a relaxed seaside atmosphere. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned LBI veteran, this guide highlights some of the best things to see and do.

Hit the Famous LBI Beaches:

The primary draw of LBI is undoubtedly its beautiful coastline. With numerous access points across various towns, the island offers miles of sandy shores perfect for:

• Swimming and Sunbathing: Enjoy the classic beach day experience along the Atlantic.
• Surfing and Water Sports: Towns like Ship Bottom are popular spots for surfing, boogie boarding, and other wave activities. Keep an eye out for dolphins playing offshore!
• Shell Collecting: Explore the shoreline for unique shells washed ashore.

Water Sports Galore:

If you love being active on the water, LBI delivers:

• Paddleboarding and Kayaking: Explore the calmer bay side or venture into the ocean waves on a stand-up paddleboard or kayak.
• Thrill Rides: For adrenaline junkies, options like water skiing and wakeboarding are available through local providers.
• Rentals: Numerous surf shops across the island offer equipment rentals for surfing, paddleboarding, and more, making it easy to try something new for a day.

Iconic Landmarks & Island History:

Beyond the beach, LBI offers historical sites and museums:

• Barnegat Lighthouse ("Old Barney"): Located at the northern tip of the island within Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, this historic beacon is a must-visit. Climb the lighthouse for panoramic views, explore the Maritime Forest Trail, and learn about its history as a crucial navigation point for ships heading to New York Harbor.
• Museum Hopping: Delve into local history at several island museums:
  • Barnegat Light Museum: Housed in an old schoolhouse, popular with locals and visitors.
  • Museum of NJ Maritime History: Discover shipwreck photographs and maritime artifacts.
  • Long Beach Island Historical Association Museum: Explore the island's broader history and culture, often featuring special kids' programs during the summer.

Family Fun Beyond the Sand:

LBI is renowned as a family-friendly destination:

• Ship Bottom Amusements: This area often features classic boardwalk-style games, arcades, and small rides where kids can play and win prizes. (Check local listings for specific venue names and seasonal operations).
• Mini Golf: A staple of many shore towns, LBI offers mini-golf courses for family fun.

Dining and Relaxing:

LBI offers a casual dining scene perfect for beach vacations:

• Casual Eats: Find plenty of pizza joints, ice cream shops (like those in Surf City), and laid-back restaurants perfect for families after a day in the sun.
• House Rentals: Many visitors opt to rent beach houses rather than stay in hotels, contributing to the island's neighborhood feel.

Planning Your LBI Trip:

• Budgeting: Keep in mind that LBI can be a bit pricier than some other nearby Jersey Shore towns, especially during peak summer season. Planning your budget in advance for accommodation, activities, and dining is recommended.
• Seasonality: LBI truly thrives from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with most seasonal businesses operating fully during this time.

Long Beach Island offers an idyllic setting for a classic Jersey Shore vacation. With its beautiful beaches perfect for swimming and surfing, iconic landmarks like Barnegat Lighthouse, engaging museums, and a plethora of family-friendly activities and casual dining options, LBI provides the perfect escape. Whether you call it LBI or simply "the shore," this barrier island welcomes visitors with its relaxed atmosphere and endless opportunities for summer fun.

Share This Article on Social Media