NJShore Guide

Long Beach Island

18 miles of barrier island paradise with 6 unique beach towns

Long Beach Island (LBI) is an 18-mile barrier island off the coast of Ocean County, offering a more relaxed alternative to the bustling boardwalk towns further north. Connected to the mainland only by the Route 72 causeway, LBI maintains a distinct island character that has attracted generations of beach lovers.

From the iconic Barnegat Lighthouse at the northern tip to the family-friendly attractions of Beach Haven in the south, each of LBI's six communities offers its own personality. Whether you're seeking the exclusive modern architecture of Loveladies, the surfing culture of Surf City, or the amusement park fun of Beach Haven, there's an LBI town that's perfect for your vacation.

18 mi

Island Length

6

Beach Towns

$10

Daily Beach Badge

217

Lighthouse Steps

Explore LBI Towns

Listed from north to south along Long Beach Boulevard

1/6Quiet & Historic

Barnegat Light

Old Barney and Authentic LBI

Northern tip of LBI, home to the iconic 172-foot lighthouse. Widest beaches on the island, Viking Village fishing fleet, and a quiet, authentic shore town atmosphere.

Barnegat LighthouseViking VillageWidest beachesState park

Best for: Lighthouse lovers, Nature seekers, Photographers

Explore BarnegatBeach Info
2/6Upscale & Quiet

Loveladies

The Hamptons of LBI

The most exclusive community on LBI, known for dramatic contemporary architecture and multi-million dollar homes. Quiet beaches and sophisticated atmosphere.

Modern architectureExclusive beachesLBI Foundation of Arts

Best for: Architecture enthusiasts, Privacy seekers, Luxury travelers

Explore LoveladiesBeach Info
3/6Peaceful & Family

Harvey Cedars

LBI's Quiet Gem

One of the quieter, more upscale communities with beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets. The narrowest part of the island offers views of both ocean and bay.

Spectacular sunsetsLess crowded beachesBay views

Best for: Families, Sunset lovers, Quiet beach seekers

Explore HarveyBeach Info
4/6Surf Culture

Surf City

Gateway to Long Beach Island

First town you reach crossing the causeway. True to its name, excellent surfing and a laid-back beach culture. Central location for exploring all of LBI.

Great surfingCauseway accessCentral locationLocal shops

Best for: Surfers, Families, First-time LBI visitors

Explore SurfBeach Info
5/6Convenient & Social

Ship Bottom

The Heart of LBI

Commercial hub of the island where Route 72 meets LBI. Convenient shopping, dining, and services. Home to the stylish Daddy O Hotel and legendary Chicken or the Egg diner.

Shopping hubDaddy O HotelThe Chegg (24hr diner)Convenience

Best for: Convenience seekers, Foodies, Shoppers

Explore ShipBeach Info
6/6Active & Family Fun

Beach Haven

Entertainment Capital of LBI

The most active town on LBI with Fantasy Island amusement park, vibrant downtown, excellent restaurants, and Surflight Theatre. The commercial and entertainment center.

Fantasy IslandThundering Surf Water ParkBay Village shoppingSurflight Theatre

Best for: Families with kids, Shoppers, Theater lovers

Explore BeachBeach Info

Top Things to Do on LBI

Climb Barnegat Lighthouse

217 steps to panoramic views of LBI and the Atlantic. Just $1 admission.

Fantasy Island

Family amusement park in Beach Haven with rides, games, and arcade.

Kayak Barnegat Bay

Calm bay waters perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and eco-tours.

Surfing

Surf City and Ship Bottom offer great waves and surf lesson options.

Fishing Charters

Viking Village in Barnegat Light and Beach Haven marinas offer charters.

More Activities

Sunset cruises, bike rentals, mini golf, and more on LBI.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Long Beach Island?

Long Beach Island is approximately 18 miles long, stretching from Barnegat Light at the northern tip to Holgate (part of Beach Haven) at the southern end. You can drive the entire length on Long Beach Boulevard in about 30-40 minutes without traffic.

How many towns are on Long Beach Island?

LBI has 6 incorporated municipalities: Barnegat Light, Long Beach Township (which includes Loveladies, Harvey Cedars, and other areas), Surf City, Ship Bottom, and Beach Haven. Each has its own distinct character and beaches.

Do you need beach badges on LBI?

Yes, most LBI beaches require beach badges from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Daily badges are typically $10, weekly around $20, and seasonal passes $40-50. Children under 12 are usually free. Badge requirements vary slightly by town.

What is the best town to stay in on LBI?

It depends on what you want: Beach Haven for families and entertainment, Barnegat Light for quiet beaches and the lighthouse, Surf City for surfing and central location, Harvey Cedars for sunsets and peace, Loveladies for exclusivity, and Ship Bottom for convenience and dining.

Is Long Beach Island expensive?

LBI is one of the pricier Jersey Shore destinations, especially for vacation rentals in peak season. Loveladies and Harvey Cedars are the most expensive. Ship Bottom and Beach Haven offer more moderate options. Off-season rates are significantly lower.

How do you get to Long Beach Island?

LBI is accessible only via the Route 72 causeway, which brings you to Ship Bottom. From NYC, take the Garden State Parkway to Exit 63, then Route 72 East (about 1.5-2 hours). From Philadelphia, take the Atlantic City Expressway to Route 72 (about 1.5 hours).

Plan Your LBI Trip

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