The Jersey Shore is New Jersey's most popular destination from May to August. With so many beaches to choose from, there is an ongoing debate about which Jersey beach is the best. Well, there’s only one answer to that: Long Beach Island. Here are six reasons why LBI is the best beach in all of Jersey.
1. The Beaches
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LBI is known for its snow white beaches and peaceful environments. Unlike many Jersey beaches, LBI doesn’t have a boardwalk filled with loud people and restaurants. It is large in size, but small enough to keep away day-trippers. LBI’s beaches are almost always filled with residents who have been living in the area for many years. There is truly no other beach like LBI.
2. The Food
LBI offers a variety of different restaurants and food joints that are to die for. You’re set in the morning with a number of different pancake houses, diners, and bagel shops. Lunch is covered with cheap and easy chowder huts and pizza shops. Dinner is all about what you’re in the mood for: seafood, bar food, fancy Italian – you name it, LBI will have it. As for dessert, there’s more ice cream shops than you could ever imagine all along LBI. I suggest trying Uncle Will’s Pancake House for breakfast, Country Kettle Chowda for lunch, The Chicken or the Egg for dinner and Dairy King for dessert.
3. The People
I always describe LBI as a family beach. You hardly find wild young adults running around causing trouble. It’s filled with either young families or families who have grown up here every summer. It’s a very friendly environment and everybody treats one another with respect and pure kindness. You can’t go for a bike ride or walk without having almost every person you pass say hello to you along the way. It’s refreshing and creates an indescribable feeling. The community creates a vibe that’s almost like everyone on the island is all part of one big family. Especially since the disastrous Sandy storm, the LBI community has created a sense of togetherness and it’s amazing to be a part of such a community.
4. The Shops
A rainy day is never a bad thing on LBI because it gives people the perfect excuse to go shopping. There are more than enough clothing stores, but also LBI is also home to some interesting and unique shops, as well. Two of my favorite shops are Song of the Sea and Bankston’s both located in Beach Haven.
5. The Sunsets
LBI is hands down the greatest place on earth to watch a sunset. You can go to any spot on the bay on the whole island and become absolutely mesmerized by the colors that light up the sky on a warm summer night. Not only do they call for an awesome photo op, but they also leave you with memories that you will never forget.
6. The Lighthouse
Alright, this isn’t any old lighthouse – this is Old Barney we’re talking about. Located in the northern tip of the island, Old Barney is the perfect place to spend a sunny summer day. First of all, the area surrounding Barney is beautiful. But, secondly, the view from the top of him is truly incredible. There’s nothing like it. If you’ve never been to LBI before, I strongly suggest you go walk up Barney’s 217 steps and check out the view from the top.
LBI is so much more than just a vacation spot. For most, it's a second home. There is truly no other place like Long Beach Island.
