Long Beach Island Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Long Beach Island, affectionately known as LBI, is an 18-mile strip of white sand that has captivated generations of families. Unlike its noisier neighbors to the north, LBI trades boardwalk games of chance and neon lights for a refined, laid-back atmosphere where the rhythm of the day is dictated by the tides. It is a place where the Atlantic Ocean meets the calm waters of Barnegat Bay, creating a narrow paradise that feels miles away from the real world, yet is easily accessible from the mainland.

The island is a tapestry of distinct communities, from the quiet, residential serenity of Loveladies and North Beach to the bustling, historic charm of Beach Haven. Whether you are crossing the Manahawkin Bay Bridge for the first time or the fiftieth, the scent of salt air and the sight of the water instantly signal that you have arrived. Here, days are spent building sandcastles and surfing the breaks, while evenings are reserved for sunset views over the bay and lines for the best local seafood.

A Legacy of Maritime History

Long Beach Island is not just a summer playground; it is steep in maritime lore. The island’s strategic location along the shipping lanes of the Atlantic has made it a focal point for naval history, tragic shipwrecks, and heroic rescues. The culture here is deeply connected to the sea, visible in the active fishing fleets of Viking Village and the preserved Victorian architecture that lines the streets of Beach Haven. Visitors can still sense the adventurous spirit of the past, from the tales of the original surfmen who manned the life-saving stations to the enduring beam of ‘Old Barney’ guiding ships to safety.

Today, this history blends seamlessly with modern coastal living. Art galleries, surf shops, and theaters occupy historic buildings, keeping the island’s heritage alive while offering contemporary entertainment. The local community is fiercely protective of their environment, ensuring that the dunes remain high and the beaches pristine, preserving the very landscape that has defined the island’s character for centuries.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Barnegat Lighthouse State Park - Located at the northern tip of the island, this park features the historic 217-foot lighthouse. Visitors can climb to the top for $3 (USD) to see Atlantic City in the distance or walk the 1,000-foot concrete walkway along the jetty.

Fantasy Island Amusement Park - Situated in Beach Haven, this is the heart of family entertainment. Entry is free, but rides and games are pay-per-play, with ticket packages ranging from $20 to $100 depending on how much time you spend.

Viking Village - Found in Barnegat Light, this working commercial fishing dock offers a glimpse into the local industry. It is free to walk around, browse the antique shops, and buy fresh scallops right off the boats.

Surflight Theatre - This professional theatre in Beach Haven has been running since 1950, offering Broadway-style musicals and children’s theatre. Tickets generally range from $39 to $49 per show.

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Long Beach Island is a straightforward drive via the Garden State Parkway to Route 72, the only road on and off the island. Once you cross the Causeway Bridge, you land in Ship Bottom, the central hub. Traffic can be dense on summer weekends, so plan to arrive early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the rush. A free shuttle service runs the length of the stunning 18-mile boulevard during peak season, making it easy to hop between towns without worrying about parking.

Packing for LBI requires beach essentials like sunscreen, towels, and chairs, but don’t forget a sweatshirt for the evenings; the ocean breeze can drop temperatures surprisingly fast after sunset. Beach badges are required for anyone over 12 on almost all beaches during the day, which can be purchased at badge shacks at beach entrances or via mobile apps for approximately $5 to $10 daily or $30 to $50 weekly.

Whether you are chasing the high energy of peak summer or the tranquil beauty of the shoulder seasons, Long Beach Island offers a coastal escape that feels both upscale and approachable. It is a destination that invites you to slow down, breathe in the salt air, and create memories that last long after the sand has been shaken from your shoes.