Long Beach Island is one large barrier island. Stretching just about 18 miles in length, LBI is one of New Jersey’s most desired vacation destinations. It is home to gorgeous beaches, great food, and tons of family fun. While there are over a dozen identifiable neighborhoods on LBI, the big six are listed below:
Barnegat Light
Incorporated: 1904
Estimated Population: 587
Land Area: 0.731 sq mi
Nuzzled on the northern tip on LBI, Barnegat Light shares it’s name with one of the neighborhoods most popular feature – the Barnegat Lighthouse. “Old Barney” as some call it, is a 172-foot tall lighthouse commissioned in 1859. Although it was decommissioned years ago, visitors are still welcomed to come visit and walk up its 217 steps for a better view of the Jersey Coastline. Barnegat Light is definitely worth a day trip. Whether you’re exploring the state park or checking out Viking Village, you won’t regret taking the drive to the north end of town.
Beach Haven
Incorporated: 1890
Estimated Population: 1,173
Land Area: 0.978 sq mi
Known as the “Queen City” Beach Haven is one of the oldest parts of town. Once known as a place for the Philadelphia elite, this historical neighborhood with its many Victorian-Style homes is now enjoyed by all. There’s something for everyone in this part of town. Theres an amusement park for the kids, charter fishing for dad, shopping for mom, and so much more. Don’t leave without making a pit stop at The Chicken or the Egg!
Harvey Cedars
Incorporated: 1894
Estimated Population: 340
Land Area: 0.557 sq mi
Home to the most narrow point of LBI, Harvey Cedars partially gets its name from the Atlantic White Cedar which caught the eye of some of the towns earliest settlers. This quant part of town is great for visitors who are interested in a laid back spot to enjoy the beach during their summer vacation. Its the least populated area in town. Make sure to check it out next time you’re on the northern end of town.
Long Beach Township
Incorporated: 1899
Estimated Population: 3,050
Land Area: 5.444 sq mi
Easily the largest of the neighborhoods – Long Beach Township is made up of over a dozen smaller communities. Naturally there’s tons to do in this side of town from Loveladies to High Bar Harbor and everything in between. Be sure to check out the Long Beach Foundation of the Arts & Sciences next time you decide to take a stroll through town.
Ship Bottom
Incorporated: 1925
Estimated Population: 1,139
Land Area: 0.713 sq mi
You can’t miss this section of town – because as soon as you’ve crossed the bridge onto the island you’ve arrived in Ship Bottom. Its also geographically known as the widest point of the island and home to the world famous Ron Jon Surf Shop. If you love being in the center of town, this is the place for you. There’s tons of nightlight, shopping, and restaurants to choose from. Don’t forget the beach!
Surf City
Incorporated: 1894
Estimated Population: 1,178
Land Area: 0.745 sq mi
Just like Ship Bottom, Surf City is the place for people who don’t like being too far from the center of town. The next town north of the bridge, Surf City is all about convenient access and relaxation. Its a spot where you can still walk to grab a coffee or lunch, but enjoy peace and quiet back at your home or beach rental. Know as the the islands “Main Street” there are lots of eclectic shops and art galleries to check out as well.