Long Beach Island: A Timeless Escape on the Jersey Shore

There are certain places in the world that feel less like destinations and more like homecomings. Long Beach Island, or LBI as the locals call it, is one of those places. Tucked off the coast of New Jersey, this 18-mile stretch of sand offers a retreat that’s equal parts nostalgic, charming, and refreshingly unpretentious. While some might flock to the Hamptons for glitz or Miami for energy, LBI has a slower magic—one that draws you back year after year.

I’ve been coming here with Freddie for over a decade, and the island has woven itself into the fabric of our lives. What began as a couple’s getaway has blossomed into a tradition with our growing family. The memories—our first walk along the dunes, our daughters’ laughter on the boardwalk rides—are etched into every corner of this beloved shore.

Getting There: The Journey Into Simplicity

Part of LBI’s charm lies in how you arrive. After a scenic drive across the Manahawkin Bay Bridge, the pace of life noticeably shifts. Gone is the rush of the mainland, replaced by breezes scented with salt and sunscreen. The best way to take it all in is by bike. Everyone here rides—it’s how you discover shaded streets, hidden cafes, and stretches of sand you’ll want to claim as your own. Bike rental shops dot the island, making it effortless to slip into the rhythm of life on two wheels.

Where to Stay: Inns, Cottages, and Coastal Hideaways

Whether you’re drawn to Victorian nostalgia or sleek modern luxury, LBI offers stays for every taste. In Beach Haven, two historic bed-and-breakfasts capture the island’s vintage spirit:

The Gables – With its lush garden, gourmet dining, and restored Victorian architecture, this inn feels like stepping into a period novel. And it’s only steps away from Fantasy Island Amusement Park—perfect if you’re traveling with kids.
Williams Cottage Inn – A lovingly restored gem where every detail, from the cozy decor to the intimate common areas, speaks to the island’s timeless character.

If a private retreat is more your style, head to the north end of the island. Areas like Loveladies, North Beach, and Harvey Cedars are known for spacious oceanfront homes, offering privacy and panoramic views. These neighborhoods are quieter, ideal for families or couples looking for a more secluded getaway.

Where to Eat: A Celebration of Local Flavor

One of LBI’s greatest pleasures is its food scene. Here, dining is less about fast food chains (you won’t find a single one) and more about local, family-owned spots that have fed generations.

Mud City Crab House (just before the bridge) is the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again. With its nautical vibe, outdoor fire pits, and seafood that tastes like it came straight off the boat, it’s an essential stop.
The Mermaid Room blends coffee, eclectic shopping, and community in one charming space—perfect for morning lattes.
Crêperie de la Mer & French Café serves up breakfast with Parisian flair.
Barry’s Do Me A Flavor is a family staple for ice cream runs.
Triton Craft Beer and Oyster Bar is our go-to for oysters, a cold beer flight, and wine to stock up for the week.
Parker’s Garage & Oyster Saloon offers upscale dining with a view—ideal for a date night.
For casual bites, Ship Bottom Shellfish, Dock & Claw Clam Bar (BYOB), and Harvey Cedars Shellfish Co. never disappoint.

The magic of dining on LBI is that every meal feels personal, a piece of the island’s story served on your plate.

What to Do: Simple Joys, Endless Memories

While LBI is famous for its beaches—and for good reason—there’s more to explore beyond the dunes.

Beach Days – The soul of the island. Our favorite stretch lies between 32nd and 50th Street, where the sandbars are perfect for a swim. Seasonal passes are required, so plan ahead.
Barnegat Lighthouse – Climb for sweeping views and a taste of history.
Kayaking – Especially magical at sunrise from the bay.
Bay Village and Schooners Wharf – A must for shopping, sipping craft beer, and browsing LBI’s one-and-only merch store.
Fantasy Island Amusement Park – A tradition for families, complete with rides, arcades, and old-fashioned ice cream cones.
Mini Golf – Scattered throughout the island, offering fun breaks in between beach time.

Why LBI Is Different

What makes Long Beach Island unforgettable isn’t just the scenery—it’s the feeling. The lack of fast food chains, the bike-filled streets, the mom-and-pop shops that have been here for generations—all of it cultivates a sense of community that’s hard to replicate.

Here, you’re not just visiting a beach town. You’re stepping into a simpler way of life, where sunsets are slow, laughter lingers in the salty air, and every visit feels like returning to a familiar story.

A Place Where Time Stands Still

Whether it’s your first trip across the Manahawkin Bridge or your fifteenth summer on the island, LBI has a way of weaving its magic into your life. It’s not just a vacation spot—it’s a place of traditions, of quiet mornings and lively nights, of seafood feasts and sandy toes.

For us, it has become more than just a getaway. It’s a backdrop for memories, a reminder of the beauty in slowing down, and a promise that some places really do hold on to their charm.

So, pack light, rent a bike, and let Long Beach Island remind you of the simple joys that never fade.