The island offers something for everyone—whether you’re looking to surf the waves in Surf City, enjoy fresh seafood near the bay, or simply unwind on a quiet stretch of sand far from crowds. With clean waters, lifeguard-protected beaches, and activities for all ages, Long Beach Island is more than just a summer escape—it’s a destination people return to year after year.
In this 2025 complete guide, we’ll help you discover the best Long Beach Island beaches to visit, from bustling family favorites to hidden local gems. You’ll also find tips on parking, beach badges, things to do nearby, and when to go for the best experience.
What Makes Long Beach Island Beaches So Special?
Long Beach Island (LBI) isn’t just a beach — it’s a coastal experience built from a collection of unique shore towns, each offering its own blend of scenery, vibe, and activities. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full summer holiday, LBI beaches stand out among New Jersey’s beach destinations for several reasons:
Immaculate Shorelines and Soft White Sand
LBI beaches are known for their exceptionally clean and well-maintained coastlines. Local municipalities prioritize beach cleaning and conservation, resulting in powdery white sands. Many beaches have won awards for cleanliness and water quality, making them perfect for families and kids.
Safe, Family-Friendly Swimming Areas
Designated swim zones, professional lifeguards during peak season, and gently sloping shorelines make LBI beaches ideal for children and older adults. Safety flags and patrols are common.
Wide Variety of Activities
- Surfing in Surf City and Holgate
- Paddleboarding & kayaking in bay areas
- Beach volleyball & sandcastle contests
- Sunset yoga in Loveladies
- Fishing & crabbing off jetties
Accessible and Organized Beach Entrances
Most beaches have:
- Marked entrances
- Free/metered parking
- Bike racks and boardwalk ramps
- Public restrooms and foot showers
Less Crowded Than Other Jersey Shore Spots
Even in summer, areas like North Beach or Holgate remain peaceful due to limited public access. The vibe is more relaxed than tourist-heavy areas like Seaside Heights.
Strong Community & Seasonal Events
- Beach clean-up days
- Outdoor concerts
- Surf clinics & kids’ programs
Scenic Views and Unique Natural Surroundings
Get sunrise and sunset views from opposite shores. Visit Barnegat Light for scenic coastlines or Holgate for wildlife and sand dunes.
Why LBI Beaches Are Unique in 2025
Clean, White-Sand Beaches
LBI towns invest in daily beach cleaning. Several areas have Blue Flag-level water quality, especially Surf City and Beach Haven.
Family-Friendly & Safe
- Clearly marked swim zones
- Daily lifeguard coverage
- Calm surf in Brant Beach & Harvey Cedars
Adventure & Relaxation
- Surfing in Surf City & Holgate
- Paddleboarding in bay areas
- Evening yoga classes in Loveladies
- Jet ski & kayak rentals in Brant Beach
Accessible Beaches
- Beach entrances include ramps, matting, and wheelchair services
- Most public beaches now include foot showers, restrooms, and shaded seating zones
Peaceful Over Crowded
Unlike Seaside Heights or Atlantic City, LBI keeps a peaceful coastal vibe. You’ll still find lively sections—but also quiet, nearly private zones in North Beach and Loveladies.
What’s New on LBI in 2025
Updated Beach Badge Prices
Most towns on LBI require badges between Memorial Day and Labor Day:
- Pre-season (by June): ~$40
- Daily: $10–12
- Weekly: $25–30
- Children under 12 & Veterans: Usually free Purchase badges via local town apps or websites (e.g., lbtbp.com).
Beach Replenishment & Accessibility
- Beach Haven and Holgate have completed sand replenishment (2025)
- Harvey Cedars is mid-restoration due to 2024 storms
- Mobility programs (beach wheelchairs and UTV rides) available in Long Beach Township and Harvey Cedars
Lifeguard Coverage
- Operating hours: 10 AM – 5 PM, daily (June to September)
- Lifeguards rotate per town schedule; some offer real-time online maps
Map of Long Beach Island and Its Beach Towns (Expanded 2025 Version)
LBI is an 18-mile barrier island along the Jersey Shore, linked to the mainland via Route 72 Causeway Bridge through Ship Bottom.
Main Beach Towns (North to South)
| Town/Area | Notable For | Beach Type |
|---|---|---|
| Barnegat Light | Lighthouse, fishing, natural beaches | Quiet, scenic |
| Loveladies | Upscale homes, art galleries | Serene, exclusive |
| Harvey Cedars | Small-town charm, surfing | Calm, family-friendly |
| Surf City | Dining, surf schools, shopping | Social, active |
| Ship Bottom | Central location, beach access | Busy, beginner-friendly |
| Brant Beach | Water sports, ocean & bay views | Balanced & fun |
| Beach Haven | Nightlife, boardwalk, amusement park | Tourist-friendly, active |
| Holgate | Wildlife refuge, remote shorelines | Wild, undeveloped |
Driving Distances
- Barnegat Light to Ship Bottom: 9 miles (~20 min)
- Ship Bottom to Beach Haven: 6 miles (~15 min)
- Beach Haven to Holgate: 2.5 miles (~7 min)
Best Long Beach Island Beaches to Visit in 2025
1. Beach Haven
- Best for: Families, nightlife, first-time visitors
- Highlights:
- Fantasy Island Amusement Park
- Thundering Surf Waterpark
- Mini golf, live music, eateries
- What’s New in 2025: Upgraded beachfront promenade, movie nights, new dining spots.
2. Surf City
- Best for: Surfers, shoppers, casual dining
- Highlights:
- Surf schools, board rentals
- Oceanfront cafes and markets
- Pop-up events, eco surf shops in 2025
3. Barnegat Light
- Best for: Quiet getaways, photography, fishing
- Highlights:
- Barnegat Lighthouse (Old Barney)
- Nature trails, migratory birds
- Guided tours and bird walks (2025)
4. Loveladies
- Best for: Privacy, couples, upscale stays
- Highlights:
- Private beach paths
- Pop-up art exhibits (2025)
- LBIF classes and exhibits
5. Brant Beach
- Best for: Sports, access to ocean and bay
- Highlights:
- Kayak/jet ski rentals
- Volleyball courts
- New bike paths, shuttles (2025)
Hidden Gem Beaches on LBI
North Beach
- Residential-only beach
- Ideal for quiet walks and sunsets
- Limited parking – best reached by bike or foot
Beach Arlington
- Calm and lesser-known
- Shallow surf ideal for toddlers
- Great for locals and sketching, napping, or jogging
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Top Family-Friendly Beaches with Amenities (2025 Update)
| Beach Name | Lifeguards | Restrooms | Food Nearby | Extras |
| Beach Haven | Yes | Yes | Bay Village, Fantasy Island | Mini golf, playground, boardwalk |
| Surf City | Yes | Yes | Cafes, bakeries, shaded benches | Changing stations, safe blocks |
| Brant Beach | Yes | Yes | Walkable eateries | Water sports, volleyball |
Tips for Parents (2025 Edition)Where to Stay on LBI in 2025
- Families: Hotels in Beach Haven or Brant Beach
- Couples: Luxury rentals in Loveladies or Barnegat Light
- Budget Travelers: Motels near Ship Bottom
- Large Groups: Vacation homes via VacationRentalsLBI.com
Best Food Stops on the Island
- Seafood: Black Whale (Beach Haven)
- Breakfast/Coffee: How You Brewin’ (Surf City)
- Ice Cream: Show Place Ice Cream Parlour (entertainment + dessert)
- Food Trucks: Surf City beach entrance on weekends
Plan Your 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Surf City for breakfast, beach and surfing. Dinner near the bay.
Day 2: Amusement park + arcade at Beach Haven. Evening movie night on the beach.
Day 3: Sunrise walk in Barnegat Light, relax in North Beach, sunset at Holgate.
Events to Catch in Summer 2025
- Fourth of July Fireworks – Beach Haven
- LBI Art Festival – Loveladies, August
- Sandcastle Contests – Brant Beach, every Saturday in July
- Free Concerts & Beach Yoga – Ship Bottom & Harvey Cedars
- Arrive early: Parking fills up by 10:30 AM
- Bring essentials: Shade tent, reef-safe sunscreen, noise-canceling headphones for infants
- Event watch: Many towns host kids’ contests and storytelling hours
- Health tip: High UV levels expected this summer – wear protective clothing
When Is the Best Time to Visit LBI in 2025?
- Best weather: Mid-June to early September
- Least crowded: Early June and post-Labor Day
- Top events: July 4th fireworks in Beach Haven, Art festivals in Loveladies (August)
FAQ
Do I need a beach badge?
Yes, most towns require daily or seasonal badges between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Are pets allowed on the beach?
Pets are typically allowed during off-season only (October–April). Check with each town.
Is there public transportation on LBI?
Yes. Shuttle buses and bike lanes are popular. Park once and explore on foot or bike.
Can I have a bonfire on the beach?
No, bonfires and open flames are prohibited on most LBI beaches.
Conclusion
Long Beach Island remains one of New Jersey’s top coastal gems in 2025. Whether you’re chasing waves, planning a family vacation, or seeking peaceful moments in nature, LBI’s variety of beaches offers something truly special. From the liveliness of Beach Haven to the serene shores of Barnegat Light, each town adds a unique charm to your trip. With its clean sands, community vibe, scenic beauty, and family-friendly amenities, Long Beach Island is more than just a destination — it’s a place where summer memories are made.
