Long Beach Island (LBI) is an 18-mile barrier island on the Jersey Shore in Ocean County, reached by a single causeway (Route 72). It’s a classic family summer destination with wide beaches, small towns like Beach Haven, Surf City and Harvey Cedars, and the historic Barnegat Lighthouse — “Old Barney” — at its northern tip. LBI is about two hours from Manhattan without traffic, making it a long day trip or an easy weekend.

At a glance
Length About 18 miles
Access Route 72 causeway from Manahawkin
Drive from Midtown About 2 hours off-peak
Highlights Beaches, Barnegat Lighthouse, Beach Haven, bayside sunsets

Barnegat Lighthouse

Completed in 1859, Barnegat Lighthouse stands in Barnegat Lighthouse State Park. Visitors can climb it in season for views over the inlet and ocean.

Towns

  • Beach Haven: the liveliest town, with an amusement park, shops and restaurants.
  • Surf City and Ship Bottom: classic beach-town feel.
  • Harvey Cedars and Loveladies: quieter, residential stretches.

Beaches

LBI beaches require beach badges in summer. The island’s bay side offers calm water, kayaking and sunsets.

Traffic

Everyone reaches LBI via Route 72 and the Garden State Parkway, so summer Friday and Sunday traffic can be heavy. Read Friday getaway traffic.

Getting there

For families, a chauffeured SUV handles beach gear and luggage for a weekend stay. See our long-distance car service and the Jersey Shore towns guide.

A day on LBI

A typical day trip might start with a morning at the beach in Surf City or Harvey Cedars, lunch at a casual seafood spot, an afternoon climb up Barnegat Lighthouse and a stroll through Barnegat Lighthouse State Park’s maritime forest, then dinner and ice cream in Beach Haven before sunset on the bay. Families often add mini golf or the rides at Beach Haven’s amusement park.

Off-season LBI

After Labor Day, the island becomes quiet and beautiful, with warm water into September, empty beaches and easier traffic on Route 72 — ideal for couples and photographers. Some restaurants and shops close for the winter, so check before visiting in the colder months.

Storms and the barrier island

As a barrier island, LBI is exposed to coastal storms; Hurricane Sandy in 2012 caused extensive damage, and the island has since rebuilt with higher homes and dune projects. Check weather forecasts before a trip, especially during hurricane season.