7 Best Ice Cream on Long Beach Island

LBI's Sweetest Scoops: An Expert Guide to the 7 Best Ice Cream Parlors

On Long Beach Island, a barrier island cherished for its sun-soaked beaches and laid-back charm, ice cream is an essential part of the vacation experience. The 18-mile stretch of LBI is dotted with incredible, family-owned ice cream parlors, each offering a unique taste of this beloved summer tradition. From historic spots with singing waiters to classic soft-serve stands, this guide will lead you to the seven best and most iconic ice cream destinations on LBI.

1. The Skipper Dipper (Peahala Park)

• The Vibe: An absolute LBI institution since 1978, The Skipper Dipper is one of the island's oldest and most beloved ice cream parlors. With its classic maritime-themed decor and charming, family-friendly atmosphere, a visit here is a nostalgic rite of passage for generations of vacationers.
• The Scoop: They are known for their extensive menu of homemade hard ice cream flavors, classic milkshakes, and decadent sundaes. Expect a line in the evenings—it’s always worth the wait.

2. The Show Place Ice Cream Parlour (Beach Haven)

• The Vibe: For a truly unique and entertaining experience, The Show Place is a can't-miss LBI tradition. It's not just an ice cream parlor; it's a cabaret. The talented waitstaff are performers who sing and dance their way through your order.
• The Scoop: The menu features a variety of themed sundaes, and the grand finale of your visit is a full song-and-dance performance. It's a perfect, high-energy treat for the whole family. They also offer a dedicated menu of vegan and dairy-free options.

3. Poppy's Ice Cream Parlour (Barnegat Light)

• The Vibe: Located just a few blocks from the iconic Barnegat Lighthouse, Poppy's is a classic, full-service ice cream parlor and a mainstay of the island's north end.
• The Scoop: They offer a fantastic selection of both hard and soft-serve ice cream with a full toppings bar, ensuring you can create your perfect cone or sundae. Guests are welcome to sit inside or enjoy their treats on the outdoor benches.

4. Barry's Do Me A Flavor (Beach Haven)

• The Vibe: A bustling, counter-service restaurant in the heart of Beach Haven, Barry's is a popular destination for both a full meal and a fantastic ice cream treat.
• The Scoop: While some come for the fried fish or burgers, many come just for the extensive ice cream bar. They serve a huge variety of hard ice cream flavors, making it a reliable and delicious choice.

5. SURFSIDE IGLOO (Surf City)

• The Vibe: A beloved local favorite, SURFSIDE IGLOO is a classic walk-up ice cream stand that has been serving Surf City for decades.
• The Scoop: They are particularly renowned for their incredible variety of soft-serve ice cream flavors and their extensive list of toppings and dips. It's a perfect spot for a simple, classic, and delicious cone.

6. Ship Bottom Ice Cream

• The Vibe: As one of the first shops you'll pass after crossing the bridge, Ship Bottom Ice Cream is a very popular first (or last) stop on the island.
• The Scoop: They offer a great selection of rich and creamy hard ice cream flavors, from classic vanilla to unique combinations like Black Raspberry and Mint Chocolate Chip. They also serve Italian ice.

7. The Windmill Waffles and Ice Cream (Ship Bottom)

• The Vibe: Located near the popular Thundering Surf Waterpark, The Windmill is a go-to for a particularly indulgent treat.
• The Scoop: As the name suggests, their specialty is pairing delicious ice cream with warm, freshly made Belgian waffles. They also serve frozen yogurt and other baked goods in a friendly and professional atmosphere.

From the singing waiters at The Show Place and the historic charm of The Skipper Dipper to the soft-serve perfection at SURFSIDE IGLOO, Long Beach Island's ice cream scene is a delicious journey through one of the Jersey Shore's most cherished traditions. Exploring these iconic parlors is the perfect way to cap off a long day on the beach.

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