A Guide to Long Beach Island, New Jersey: Your Map to Fun in the Sun
Long Beach Island (LBI) is a popular summer destination known for its beautiful beaches, charming towns, and abundance of activities. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation, thrilling water sports, or a taste of local culture, LBI has something for everyone.
To help you navigate this island paradise, here's a guide to the main towns and landmarks on LBI, along with a brief overview of what each has to offer:
North End of LBI:
Beach Haven:
- Known for: A lively boardwalk with shops, restaurants, arcades, and the iconic Barnegat Lighthouse.
- Highlights: The Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, Fantasy Island Amusement Park, and the quaint, historic downtown area.
Surf City:
- Known for: A laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and excellent surfing conditions.
- Highlights: The Long Beach Island Surf Museum, the historic Surf City Lighthouse, and a vibrant arts and crafts scene.
Harvey Cedars:
- Known for: Quiet beaches, a peaceful atmosphere, and beautiful natural scenery.
- Highlights: The Harvey Cedars Lighthouse, the Harvey Cedars Beach, and the historic Harvey Cedars General Store.
Central LBI:
Long Beach Township:
- Known for: A mix of residential areas and vacation rentals, with a variety of restaurants and shops.
- Highlights: The Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, the Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts and Sciences, and the popular Brant Beach.
Ship Bottom:
- Known for: A vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and nightlife, plus a wide array of attractions for families.
- Highlights: The Ship Bottom Beach, the Ship Bottom Museum, and the popular Ship Bottom Crab House.
Manahawkin:
- Known for: A historic town with a charming downtown area, unique shops, and a thriving fishing industry.
- Highlights: The Manahawkin Bay Marina, the Manahawkin Museum, and the historic Manahawkin Post Office.
South End of LBI:
Barnegat Light:
- Known for: A quiet and peaceful community, beautiful beaches, and a charming lighthouse.
- Highlights: The Barnegat Lighthouse, the Barnegat Light Beach, and the Barnegat Light State Park.
Beach Haven West:
- Known for: A mix of residential areas and vacation rentals, with a variety of restaurants and shops.
- Highlights: The Beach Haven West Beach, the Beach Haven West Yacht Club, and the historic Beach Haven West Firehouse.
Things to do on LBI:
- Beaches: Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
- Fishing: Cast a line from the shore or book a charter for deep-sea fishing.
- Shopping: Browse boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops.
- Dining: Savor fresh seafood, Italian cuisine, and other delicious options.
- Entertainment: Attend concerts, festivals, and other events.
Getting Around:
- Car: LBI is easily accessible by car via the Garden State Parkway.
- Public Transportation: Bus service is available to and from the island.
- Bike: A bike path runs the length of the island, making it a great way to explore.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, Long Beach Island is the perfect place to enjoy the Jersey Shore. Use this map as your guide, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
