Because of the Corona-virus, there is not a whole lot we can do right now as a society. However, that does not mean we cannot start planning for the fun we can have when it passes! This year still has plenty of potential. One spot you are guaranteed to enjoy is Long Beach Island (LBI). Long Beach Island is an amazing vacation destination with so much to offer all types of people. It is the life-blood of New Jersey with so many different experiences to enjoy.
Long Beach Boulevard
Of course, you cannot mention LBI without talking about Long Beach Blvd. It is a great place to socialize and enjoy a wide array of activities. Whether it is a recreational bike ride or stopping off for a couple of scoops of ice cream, there is fun to be had for everyone there. Plus, there are several cool shops along the way on top of being right next to the beach the whole time!
Beach Haven is one of the most popular places to go during a trip to LBI. In addition to the abundance of restaurants and shopping located there, it is home to all kinds of different attractions, including both an amusement park and a water park.
Fantasy Island Amusement Park
This is the aforementioned amusement park within Beach Haven. The park has been family-owned and operated since 1985. There are over 30 rides and boardwalk games there, along with a plethora of other entertainment options. An arcade that is open year-round is also located within the park.
Barnegat Lighthouse
If you are interested in something a little more relaxing, try heading to the Barnegat Lighthouse. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the lighthouse was crucial for helping navigate ships coming in and out of New York Harbor. Now, it serves as one of the coolest historic lighthouses in the world and an awesome attraction to see in LBI. On particular days with low cloud coverage, Atlantic City can be seen from the top of the lighthouse.
Schooner’s Wharf
Many enjoy going shopping at new places while on vacation, and Schooner’s Wharf is the spot to do just that in LBI. This is another staple of Beach Haven and is home to over 25 different shopping and eating establishments. You will also be able to pick up a couple of those “touristy” t-shirts and sweatshirts there.
Surflight Theatre
You do not often see live theatre associated with trips to the beach, but LBI has something to change that. Surflight Theatre is the only professional theatre in Ocean County, NJ, and offers top-tier productions throughout the summer months. This non-profit organization has been cranking out live shows since 1950 and is a staple in the Southern New Jersey community.
Chicken or the Egg
The fun name aside, this well-regarded restaurant has been serving patrons in LBI for over 25 years. From chicken wings to egg-focused breakfast dishes, to burgers and everything in between, this little establishment has garnered national attention for its delicious menu. Chicken or the Egg is also open 24 hours a day, serving their entire menu! So whether you want a chicken wing at eight in the morning or a midnight omelet, this place will be happy to provide it.
Ship Bottom Beach
Long Beach Island is home to many smaller beaches, and Ship Bottom Beach is one of the best. It is a great spot for surfing as well as a beautiful area to just kick back and relax. There are some ice cream trucks and other concession options available for visitors. Even though there are plenty of garbage-producing options for visitors, the beach is kept extremely clean throughout the year.
Holyoke
If your activity of preference when at the beach is surfing, be sure to check out Holyoke. It is often referred to as the best surfing location in LBI and has spots for everyone ranging from beginners to professionals. Here, you can discover why surfing is alive and well along the New Jersey coast. Even if surfing is not your thing, it is still an excellent area to enjoy more leisurely activities.
Bayview Park
The beach is nice, but sometimes people want more. Bayview Park has plenty more to offer. Along with the beach, the park has basketball and volleyball courts for visitors to enjoy, as well as numerous playgrounds for kids. In addition, the park hosts events and concerts throughout the summer, many of which are offered for free!
Show Place Ice Cream Parlor
Why enjoy just ice cream when you can have a show with it? Show Place Ice Cream Parlor has their staff perform different shows while customers enjoy their ice cream. Sometimes guests are even asked to come on stage and perform. With so many ice cream venues to check out in LBI, Show Place is certainly one of the more entertaining options.
Long Beach Island has so much to offer visitors. If you are looking for a great place to spend your next vacation, you should check it out!
