I didn’t grow up going to Long Beach Island. I found it by accident, actually. A friend invited me for a weekend a few years ago, and it only took about ten minutes after crossing that bridge for me to get hooked. There’s something about the place—you feel it as soon as the salty breeze hits your face. You just know you’re not in the real world anymore. It’s like time slows down here.
This is not your typical Jersey shore towns if you have never been there. There will not be any wild boardwalk, any chaos. Rather there are soft sand beaches, tiny towns with the connected loop-de-loop like baroque seashells and that slow and languid pace that makes you eager to forget the phone and walk in barefoot.
So What’s the Deal with LBI?
The thing about Long Beach Island is that it is a very thin island about 18 miles long and when you look out of one side you see the ocean, and when you look out of the other you see the bay (a kind of inland water as opposed to the ocean). This is something that amazes me.
The towns are small and full of personality. There’s Beach Haven (kind of the “downtown” of LBI), Barnegat Light (peaceful and proud home of the lighthouse), Surf City (good for shops and food), and a few other residential spots like Loveladies and Harvey Cedars. Some are more happening, others are dead quiet—and I mean that in the best way.
What You’ll Actually Do Here (Besides Stare at the Ocean)
Let’s be honest: you’ll do a whole lot of nothing. And it’s glorious.
You’ll wake up early because the sunlight floods your room. You’ll walk barefoot to grab a coffee from that little corner place that only takes cash. You’ll burn your feet walking across hot sand because you forgot your flip-flops, then sit for hours with your toes in the surf doing absolutely nothing productive. That’s the whole point.
And when you finally get hungry? You’ll argue with your crew about where to eat because there are way too many good spots. One of you will insist on The Chicken or the Egg. Another swears by the tacos in Surf City. Someone else brings up Barry’s Do Me A Flavor for ice cream again. It’s a whole thing.
Pro Tip: Use the Local Taxis
You’ll think, “Oh, it’s a beach town. I can walk or bike everywhere.” You’re not wrong. But here’s what you don’t think about until it’s 9:30 PM, your legs are tired, and you don’t want to get back on that beach cruiser in the dark.
That’s when you’re gonna want to call a local taxi.
LBI has a few of them, and they’re surprisingly reliable. Like, actual people, not a random app driver from two towns over. These folks know the island. They’ll get you from a bar in Beach Haven to your rental in Harvey Cedars without needing directions. Especially during summer weekends when parking is basically a myth, these local cabs are your best friend.
Want to Get Off the Island for a Day?
Totally fair. Sometimes you get the itch to explore. Here’s a few quick side trips:
- Tuckerton – not far, and has a sweet little maritime museum and boardwalk feel.
- Atlantic City – an hour drive if you need some casino chaos and bright lights.
- Manahawkin – across the bridge for chain stores, Starbucks, that kind of thing.
- Cape May – it’s a drive, but that Victorian town look is worth it if you’re staying awhile.
Some local taxi services will even take you to these places or at least to the closest transit hub. Super helpful if you came car-free.
LBI Food: Come Hungry
Okay, back to food—because yes, it’s that good.
Here’s what you need to know: skip the chains, trust the little spots, and eat seafood like it’s going out of style.
FavoriFor the Egg) – People line up for wings, breakfast, and their ridiculous menu. It’s loud. It’s always packed. It’s worth it.
- Black Whale – Think crab legs, oysters, and a solid drink menu.
- Uncle Will’s – Pancakes. That’s it. Just… pancakes. And pig décor. Don’t ask, just go.
- Crust & Crumb – Go early. Their sticky buns do not last. I made the mistake of showing up at noon. Rookie move.
Where to Stay (Or Hide)
Most people rent houses here for a week at a time. There are a few hotels and inns though—Hotel LBI is probably the nicest and fanciest. Then there’s Daddy O, which is a bit trendier and has a rooftop. The Engleside Inn is more old-school, beachfront vibes.
Don’t expect major hotel chains. This place keeps it pretty local. Book early if you’re eyeing summer—it fills up fast.
Best Time to Come? Depends On What You Want
The months of June, July and August are summer. It is open and busy: crowds of people, families, children and beach-umbrellas. It is busy, yet people enjoy it.
My favorite month is September. The sea is still hot, tourists leave, and the island seems and appears to be local. And you do not need to queue up to buy ice cream!
Handy Tips for First Timers
- Bring cash. A lot of places still don’t take cards (which feels oddly nostalgic).
- You’ll need a beach badge to sit on the sand in most towns.
- Pack layers. Evenings cool off fast.
- Rent or bring a bike—it’s honestly the best way to get around.
- If you’re going out, book a taxi ahead of time. They get booked up fast on busy nights.
LBI in a Nutshell
It’s not fancy. It’s not loud. It’s not trying to impress anyone.
But if you love the beach, quiet mornings, good food, and a slower pace… Long Beach Island kind of steals your heart. And it never gives it back.
All i say is don’t say I did not warn you when you will start mapping out your trip back before you even leave.
Quick FAQs
Q1. Do you need to have a car to get around?
Yes. Bike/run, walk or cab.
Q2. Is LBI kid-friendly?
Very. It’s kind of made for families.
Q3. What’s the deal with beach badges?
They’re required to access most public beaches during summer. You can buy them daily or weekly.
Q4. Where should I stay for nightlife?
Beach Haven has the most bars and restaurants.
Q5. Do locals actually live here year-round?
Yep! It’s quieter in winter, but people live, work, and raise families here all year.
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