🏖️Shore Guide
🏖️

Barnegat Light

Old Barney and Authentic LBI

Barnegat Light sits at the northern tip of Long Beach Island, anchored by the iconic "Old Barney" lighthouse that has guided mariners since 1859. This quiet fishing community offers the widest beaches on LBI and an authentic shore town atmosphere untouched by heavy commercialization.

Viking Village is a working fishing fleet where visitors can watch boats unload their daily catch and browse craft fairs and art shows. The lighthouse at Barnegat Lighthouse State Park offers panoramic views from its 217-step climb—just $1 admission makes it one of the best values on the Jersey Shore (4.7/5 stars from visitors).

The wide beaches here are noticeably less crowded than those farther south on the island. The jetty at the inlet provides excellent fishing, and the surrounding state park offers nature trails and wildlife viewing. This is LBI at its most authentic.

quietauthenticfishing villagehistoricuncrowded

What Makes Barnegat Light Special

Authentic Fishing Village

Known for its quiet and authentic atmosphere

Perfect For

lighthouse enthusiasts, fishermen, nature lovers

Local Legend

Lieutenant George Meade designed the Barnegat Lighthouse in 1857. Six years l...

Must-See

Barnegat Lighthouse - Climb 217 steps to the top of "Old Barney" for panoramic vie...

Did You Know?

💡

Did You Know?

Lieutenant George Meade designed the Barnegat Lighthouse in 1857. Six years later, he would lead Union forces to victory at the Battle of Gettysburg.

💡

Did You Know?

In the 1920s, erosion threatened to topple Barnegat Lighthouse. Locals saved it by building jetties using baby carriages, old cars, and any heavy objects they could find.

💡

Did You Know?

The lighthouse's first-order Fresnel lens was so powerful it could be seen 30 miles at sea—critical for guiding ships past the treacherous Barnegat Shoals.

Historical Note

The original Barnegat Lighthouse was built in 1835 but eroded into the sea. The current 'Old Barney' was completed in 1859 and has become LBI's most iconic landmark, surviving over 160 years of Atlantic storms.

Beach Badge

$10/day

Parking

Free

From NYC

1hr 40min

Transit

Car only

Ad: 300x250

Don't Miss in Barnegat Light

Barnegat Lighthouse

Must See

Climb 217 steps to the top of "Old Barney" for panoramic views of LBI and the inlet. Just $1 admission—4.7/5 stars. One of NJ's most iconic landmarks since 1859.

Viking Village

Must See

Working commercial fishing fleet where you can watch boats unload their catch. Craft fairs, art shows, and fresh seafood market. Authentic LBI experience.

Barnegat Light State Park

Must See

Nature trails, wildlife viewing, and the widest beaches on LBI. Excellent fishing from the inlet jetty.

Also Worth Checking Out

Inlet Jetty Excellent fishing spot with views of boats entering and leaving the inlet. Popular with anglers for striped bass and bluefish.

Where to Eat in Barnegat Light

Viking Fresh Seafood

seafood
$$

Try: Whatever came in that day

fresh caughtseafood market

Kubel's

americanseafood
$$

Try: Breakfast or fish sandwich

family-friendlybreakfast

Mustache Bill's Diner

americancafe
$

Try: Pancakes

dinercash only

Where to Stay in Barnegat Light

🏠

Barnegat Light Vacation Rentals

Vacation RentalVaries

$$

Beach houses and cottages in this quiet fishing village. Less expensive than towns farther south on LBI.

full kitchenquiet location

Looking for more options? Search all available accommodations.

Search on Booking.com
Ad: 300x250

Getting to Barnegat Light

🚗 By Car

  • From NYC: 1hr 40min
  • From Philadelphia: 1hr 15min
  • From Newark: 1hr 25min
Get Directions

Best Time to Visit Barnegat Light

Peak Season

June - August

Warmest weather, all attractions open, full beach services. Expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Off-Season Perks

  • Lower accommodation prices
  • Fewer crowds
  • Easier parking
  • More authentic local experience

Explore More

Nearby Towns to Explore