Long Beach Island Travel Guide

Get insider tips and recommendations on things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more in Long Beach Island.


Introduction to Long Beach Island

Long Beach Island, also known as LBI, is a barrier island located in Ocean County, New Jersey. The island is 18 miles long and just a quarter-mile wide, making it a popular destination for beach lovers and water enthusiasts. With its pristine beaches, world-class restaurants, and scenic views, Long Beach Island offers something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Long Beach Island

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Barnegat Lighthouse State Park: A historic lighthouse located at the northern tip of the island. It offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding area.
  • Beach Haven Historical Museum and Visitor’s Center: It is a museum dedicated to the history of Long Beach Island and the surrounding region. It offers interactive exhibits and guided tours.

Natural Attractions of Long Beach Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Barnegat Bay: A protected bay that offers a variety of water activities like sailing, boating, kayaking, and fishing.
  • Holgate Beach: A secluded beach located at the southern tip of the island. It is known for its natural beauty and untouched dunes.
  • Surf City Beach: A popular beach that offers a scenic view of the Atlantic Ocean and is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Long Beach Island

  • Barnegat Light Beach to Beach Haven Bike Trail: A 7.5 mile bike trail that offers scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding area.
  • Barnegat Lighthouse State Park Trail: A mile-long trail that passes through the dunes and offers panoramic views of the bay.

Best Things to Do in Long Beach Island: Activities and Tours

  • Beachcomber Boat Tours: A boat tour that takes you around the bay and offers an opportunity to see dolphins and other marine life.
  • Island Surf and Sail: A surf school that offers lessons and rentals for paddleboarding, surfing, and windsurfing.
  • LBI Fishing Adventures: A guided fishing tour that takes you to the best fishing spots in the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Long Beach Island

| Day | Activity | | — | — | | Day 1 | Visit Barnegat Lighthouse State Park and take a guided tour | | Day 2 | Explore the Beach Haven Historical Museum and Visitor’s Center | | Day 3 | Take a bike ride along the Barnegat Light Beach to Beach Haven Bike Trail | | Day 4 | Go on a Beachcomber Boat Tour | | Day 5 | Learn to surf, paddleboard, or windsurf with Island Surf and Sail | | Day 6 | Try your hand at fishing with LBI Fishing Adventures | | Day 7 | Relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches of Long Beach Island |

Food and Drink Scene of Long Beach Island

Long Beach Island has a thriving food scene that ranges from casual beachside eateries to fine dining restaurants.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Clams Casino: A local dish that consists of clams baked with bread crumbs, bacon, and bell peppers.
  • Crab Cakes: A popular seafood dish made from fresh crab meat.
  • Taylor Ham Sandwich: A popular breakfast dish served on a Kaiser roll with egg and cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Cape May Brewing Company: A local brewery that offers a variety of craft beers.
  • LBI Rum Company: A micro-distillery that produces small-batch rums.

Where to Stay in Long Beach Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Long Beach Island offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences.

Hotels

  • The Sandcastle Inn: A boutique hotel located in Beach Haven that offers oceanfront rooms and suites.
  • Sea Spray Motel: A budget-friendly hotel located in Beach Haven that offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the beach.

Hostels

  • Island Guest House Bed and Breakfast: An affordable bed and breakfast located in Beach Haven that offers comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
  • HI Barnegat Light Hostel: A hostel located at the northern tip of the island that offers affordable dormitory-style rooms and easy access to the beach.

What to Buy in Long Beach Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Salt Water Taffy: A popular sweet treat that is a staple of Long Beach Island and the Jersey Shore.
  • Beach Glass Jewelry: A unique handmade jewelry that is made from tumbled sea glass.

Local Culture and Customs of Long Beach Island

Long Beach Island has a unique culture that is influenced by its location on the Jersey Shore. Visitors are advised to be respectful of local customs and to always follow beach rules and regulations.

Best Time to Visit Long Beach Island

The best time to visit Long Beach Island is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the beaches are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Long Beach Island

Do:

  • Do bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Do obey beach rules and regulations.
  • Do try the local seafood dishes.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter on the beaches or anywhere else on the island.
  • Don’t forget to bring your own towels and beach chairs.
  • Don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach.

Safety and Health

Safety in Long Beach Island

Long Beach Island is a generally safe destination, but visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety. Avoid walking alone at night and keep valuables locked in a safe place.

Health in Long Beach Island

Long Beach Island has a variety of medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies to ensure visitors’ health and well-being.

Getting to Long Beach Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Long Beach Island

  • Atlantic City International Airport: Located 45 miles east of Long Beach Island, it is the nearest airport to the island.
  • Newark Liberty International Airport: Located 90 miles north of Long Beach Island, it is a major international airport that offers connections to many destinations around the world.

Bus Stations Near Long Beach Island

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in Toms River, NJ, about 30 miles northwest of Long Beach Island.
  • NJ Transit Bus Station: Located in Manahawkin, NJ, about 10 miles west of Long Beach Island.

Other Options

  • Driving: Long Beach Island is easily accessible by car via the Garden State Parkway and NJ Route 72.
  • Ferry: Visitors can take a ferry from nearby towns like Tuckerton and Beach Haven to reach the island.

How to Get Around in Long Beach Island

The best way to get around Long Beach Island is by car, bike, or walking. There are many rental car companies and bike rental shops available on the island.

Where to Go Next from Long Beach Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Atlantic City: Located about an hour’s drive from Long Beach Island, Atlantic City is a popular destination for gambling, shopping, and entertainment.
  • Cape May: Located about an hour and a half’s drive from Long Beach Island, Cape May is a historic seaside town that is known for its beautiful Victorian architecture and scenic beaches.

Conclusion

Long Beach Island offers a lot of exciting things to do and see for visitors of all ages. From its beautiful beaches to its historic landmarks, from its world-class restaurants to its unique culture, Long Beach Island is a destination that should not be missed.

Barnegat Lighthouse on the northern tip of Long Beach Island Barnegat Lighthouse on the northern tip of Long Beach Island The beach The beach