For visitors to LBI in the final several weeks of the summer, there is a bittersweet feeling. August and September are my favorite months in LBI, but it also means that the curtain is about to close on another great Long Beach Island summer.
If you happen to be fortunate enough to be in LBI in the next several weeks, here are our personal recommendations:
Where to Stay in LBI at The End of the Season
Many colleges and universities are already getting back to class and many families head back home to get ready for the younger kids to head back to school soon. This means that there are usually vacancies and reasonable rates at even the best hotels on the island.
Our go-to recommendation for this time of year is always Spray Beach Hotel. Why? They are located right on the beach and all of their rooms have either an amazing view of the beach/ocean or have a great view of their very attractive pool area. Their room rates are very reasonable compared to many of their competitors on the island who don’t have nearly as good of a location.
What to Do in LBI at The End of the Season
There is so much to do in LBI and everything is still open and in full-swing. So, you “do” LBI however you see fit! We do have 2 personal recommendations that are particularly good this time of year:
Surflight Theatre
Where: 201 Engleside Ave. Beach Haven, NJ
The Surflight Theatre is a gem. LBI is lucky to have it. I actually had a chance to speak with the owner as they were reopening this venue a few years ago. I am so proud of the job they have done and the commitment they have to the LBI community and to the arts. Do yourself a favor and check out their schedule. While you are there, you might want to mention to them that their website sucks … but they are great!
Fire Pit Fridays in LBI
Where: 68th St. Beach in Long Beach Township
When: Fridays at 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
What is it? Every Friday this summer enjoy free music beginning at 7:30 p.m. on the beach. Bring beach chairs and enjoy the sunset, cool breezes and live music from the beach. The final Friday of the season is September 4th featuring the band Sneak Attack! If you want to “feel like a local” and just totally absorb the LBI “vibe” … this just may be the best way to do it!
What’s Next in LBI?
This is now the 7th or 8th year we have been writing for LBI. I can’t believe it has been so long. Our next article, like most years, will highlight the final “secret” ways that only the locals know about to get the most out of LBI in the quiet off-season but before the frigid temperatures move in. Don’t miss it!
