Long Beach Island is a 29-kilometer (18-mile) barrier island on the Atlantic coast of New Jersey, bordered to the west by Barnegat Bay and to the east by the Atlantic Ocean. The island is accessible exclusively by car via Route 72 East from Garden State Parkway Exit 63 across the Thomas A. Mathis Bridge causeway into Ship Bottom. No public transit serves the island at any time of year and the causeway has no pedestrian or bicycle crossing. From New York City, the drive covers approximately 145 kilometers (90 miles) and takes 1h45 to 2h15 depending on traffic; from Philadelphia the distance is about 120 kilometers (75 miles) with a drive time of 1h30 to 2h. The island's six municipalities — from Loveladies and Harvey Cedars at the northern end through Surf City, Ship Bottom, and Barnegat Light to Beach Haven at the south — each maintain their own beach access points and badge requirements. Daily beach badges cost $8–$12 per adult depending on municipality and are required from late June through Labor Day. Parking at beach access points typically costs $5–$15 per day. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park at the northern tip of the island is the signature natural attraction. The Barnegat Lighthouse, constructed in 1858 and nicknamed Old Barney, rises 172 steps to the top and is free to climb; the state park charges no entry fee. The lighthouse marks Barnegat Inlet separating Long Beach Island from Island Beach State Park to the north, and the jetty rocks at the inlet are a popular fishing location. Beach Haven, the island's southernmost and most commercially developed town, clusters dining, shopping, and nightlife along Bay Avenue and Centre Street. Fantasy Island Amusement Park at 320 West 7th Street in Beach Haven operates seasonally from early June through September; wristband admission costs approximately $20–$30. The LBI Museum at 137 Engleside Avenue in Beach Haven documents the island's maritime history and lifesaving heritage. Barnegat Bay on the western shore offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and clamming, with equipment rental available from outfitters in Ship Bottom and Beach Haven.
How to get there
- Car via Garden State Pkwy exit 63 + Rte 72 East
Location
Long Beach Blvd, Surf City, NJ 08008
39.6500, -74.1967 View on map
Highlights
- Barnegat Lighthouse State Park at the north tip of LBI — Old Barney (1858) offers a 172-step climb with Barnegat Inlet views; entry and climbing free
- 29 km of Atlantic Ocean beach across six communities from Loveladies at the north to Beach Haven at the south
- Fantasy Island Amusement Park at 320 W 7th St in Beach Haven with seasonal rides and carnival games ($20–$30 wristband)
- Beach Haven's Bay Avenue and Centre Street concentrate restaurants, bars, and boutiques at the island's southern commercial center
- Barnegat Bay west shore offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and clamming with seasonal equipment rental in Ship Bottom and Beach Haven
Tips for visiting
- Arrive by 9 a.m. on summer weekends — Route 72 eastbound backs up from the mainland by 10 a.m., adding 20–40 minutes to the causeway crossing
- Beach badges ($8–$12/day) vary by municipality; purchasing at the township office on arrival avoids the beach-side queue
- Barnegat Lighthouse State Park is free to enter and climb; park in the lot at the north end of Central Avenue in Barnegat Light township
- Bring a cooler and food from the mainland — prices are elevated on the island in peak season and options near some beaches are limited
- Leave the island by 3:30 p.m. on summer Saturdays to avoid the westbound causeway backup, which peaks between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
When to visit
Late June through early September is peak beach season with lifeguards on duty and all island attractions operating. Late May and September after Labor Day offer warm water and noticeably smaller crowds, with most restaurants and shops still open.
Frequently asked questions
Is there public transit to Long Beach Island?
No. Long Beach Island is accessible only by car via Route 72 East from Garden State Parkway Exit 63. The causeway has no pedestrian or bicycle access and no bus service reaches the island at any time of year.
Do all LBI beaches require a beach badge?
Yes, from approximately Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Daily badges cost $8–$12 per adult depending on municipality. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park at the northernmost tip has its own beach area that is free to access.
What is the best town to base a day trip on Long Beach Island?
Beach Haven at the southern end has the most restaurants, shops, and attractions including Fantasy Island Amusement Park. Barnegat Light at the northern end suits visitors primarily interested in the lighthouse park and Barnegat Inlet jetty fishing.
When does the LBI beach season run?
Lifeguard service and badge requirements run from roughly Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Most restaurants and shops open in May and close by mid-October. The island is significantly quieter in shoulder seasons but beaches remain accessible year-round.