Things to do in Long Beach Island in August

When is your trip?

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Looking for a different month?

Overview

August is a good time to visit Long Beach Island.

Long Beach Island has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your August trip to Long Beach Island. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to August. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

Visiting Long Beach Island? See our Long Beach Island Trip Planner.
Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Learn more
What users say about the app

Best events and things to do in Long Beach Island in August

Top experiences in August
We couldn't find any experiences in August
Holidays in Long Beach Island in August
August

There are no holidays in Long Beach Island in August

Other notable holidays

Best attractions for Long Beach Island in August

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Long Beach Island has to offer for travelers in August, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Long Beach Island that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Long Beach Island for August.
Barnegat Lighthouse State Park
1. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park
4.8
(4778)
State park
Nature & Parks
Scenic park with a maritime forest, trails & a lighthouse with panoramic views & a visitor center.
Slide 1 of 8
Gorgeous! It’s free to walk around and take photos. If you want to go up in the lighthouse there’s an admission fee. The parking lot is also free and there a restrooms adjacent to the parking lot. Please note the parking closes at 8pm.
Barnegat Lighthouse — affectionately known as "Old Barney" — is one of New Jersey's true coastal treasures. Standing proudly at the northern tip of Long Beach Island, this red-and-white beacon has been guiding mariners since 1859, and visiting it feels like stepping into a living piece of maritime history. Stepping into Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, the invigorating ocean breeze and the rhythmic waves immediately set the scene. The lighthouse, a towering 163 feet, beckons you with its red-and-white stripes. If you're up for the challenge, the 217 spiral steps to the top await. The climb, though narrow and winding, is an adventure in itself, each turn building anticipation. And when you finally emerge onto the observation deck, the view is nothing short of spectacular. On a clear day, the vast Atlantic Ocean stretches before you, while the Barnegat Bay glistens behind, and the rooftops of Long Beach Island form a picturesque horizon. It's a view that demands a pause, a deep breath, and a moment to take it all in. The history here is fascinating. The original lighthouse, built in 1835, was quickly deemed inadequate for the dangerous Barnegat Inlet waters. The current structure was designed by Lt. George G. Meade (yes, the same Meade who later commanded Union forces at Gettysburg) and completed in 1859. It once housed a massive first-order Fresnel lens that could be seen for 19 nautical miles — that original lens is now on display at the Barnegat Light Historical Society's museum nearby. The light was extinguished during World War II. Still, it was relit in 2009 with a modern Coast Guard-approved lens, keeping the tradition alive. The park that envelops the lighthouse is a serene haven. It offers winding trails that are a paradise for birdwatchers, picnic areas that are perfect for a leisurely lunch, and numerous spots where you can simply sit and watch the boats navigate the inlet. The Interpretive Center is a treasure trove of exhibits. For those who can't make the climb, it even offers a live camera feed from the top of the lighthouse. Tips for visiting: * Wear comfortable shoes for the climb. * Go on a clear day for the best views (sunrise and sunset are magical). * Bring your camera — the photo ops are endless. * If you're visiting in summer, come early to avoid crowds and heat inside the tower. Whether you're a history buff, a photographer, or simply someone seeking a peaceful coastal escape, Barnegat Lighthouse delivers. It's not just a stop — it's an experience that blends history, nature, and breathtaking scenery into one unforgettable visit. And if you're looking to extend your trip, the charming towns of Barnegat Light and Harvey Cedars are just a short drive away, offering additional opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
Absolutely breathtaking! The view from the lighthouse is nothing short of spectacular. Panoramic scenes of the coastline stretch as far as the eye can see, with waves crashing rhythmically below and the horizon painted in shades of blue and gold. It’s peaceful, powerful, and the perfect spot to take in nature’s beauty. A must-visit for anyone who loves scenic overlooks or photography!
Beautiful (recently painted) lighthouse (you can climb up the 217 steps), water views, jetty and well- maintained paths. Lots of fisherman and photograhers along the jetty. Visitor Center with shop and restrooms available. From the lighthouse you can walk out to the ocean (around a mile). Worth a visit! Enjoy ~
Good, affordable activity for enthusiasts or a person/family looking for a nice activity to switch up the beach trips. There isn't an absurd amount of steps so kids can join, but obviously be prepared for a tough climb. Ice cream is a great post lighthouse treat. Lighthouse Survivor tip: STRETCH. I'm pretty dam athletic, despite my age. Those steps destroyed my quads/thighs with no remorse. $3 for adults
A pleasant small park with the Barnegat Lighthouse at it center. There are walking paths, views of the ocean and occasional sightings of aquatic birds. I went on a lovely weekday and found lots of folks at the park but it wasn't packed.
Amazing and magical! Wh/ch users be careful of the Rock driveways but otherwise accommodating Parking is accessible, bathrooms are accessible. Mini golf not so much but patrons and park staff are friendly and helpful. Just as I remember from 25yrs ago! - with some changes
Barnegat Lighthouse is a great place to check out some history, climb a lighthouse, check out the view from above, walk out along the shoreline and even climb on some jetties. We go every time we visit LBI.
Ship Bottom Shellfish
2. Ship Bottom Shellfish
4.5
(956)
Seafood restaurant
Family-owned seafood & American restaurant since 1981 with a casual, homey setting & retail market.
Slide 1 of 8
We stopped in around 6 PM to find a line at the door. The couple ahead of us was seeking a table for eight and were told that it would be 90 minutes or more. We were a little discouraged at this point but when the hostess got to us asked about a seating preference we were immediately seated outside. Not bad! We are leaving only three stars for atmosphere because we never saw the inside of the place. We called in advance and found this to be a BYOB restaurant. Apparently this is widely known among the regulars as it seemed that everyone waiting for a table had wine with them. We started off with oysters on the half shell which were served with cocktail sauce, horseradish and a vinaigrette. Our dinner entrees included fried scallops and jumbo lump crab cakes. We finished off the meal with a blueberry crisp ala mode. Everything was wonderful; we will definitely go back again.
Wanted oysters Picked this spot. Small seating inside and out. Service was good, food was great will be back!
We have ordered take-out here more times than I can count (and obviously love it or we would have stopped) but today was the first time we dined in, sitting on the sidewalk bar seats for lunch. Food was top notch and so nice getting it fresh. Service was fantastic and loved the atmosphere of a busy ship bottom beach day walking/driving by. I had a crab cake and the Baja fish tacos special with fries while my son had clams with a side of clams and pasta (linguini and clams). BYOB but they do have some wines for sale. Take out here is also great and one thing I’ve always been impressed with is regardless of how chaotic it is or complicated the order I’ve never seen them mess it up.
Try the Birch Beer (very sweet root beer) - that’s delicious. First time to have raw clams - very interesting and good. Enjoyed the chowder. Fried clams were good, too. Sweet staff. Restroom is outside.
❤️ Overview: My mom came here for dinner at around 5pm and it was already popping! It was a 45 min to an hour wait or they could sit us outside immediately, so we chose outside! So definitely recommend coming early or being ready to wait. Nice thing if you will wait, they take your phone number and will call you when your table is ready. Which I think every restaurant should do! Overall, all the food was good! It’s also BYOB, so if you want to drink, bring your own alcohol! Sitting outside was nice, but it was super windy and you are facing the street so not the best view but definitely was better than waiting an hour! (I was debating sharing this, but I’m going to, I took a small container of clam chowder to go and ate it the next day, which I think was a mistake because I got food poisoning the following day after eating it and another meal I had. It was probably a combination of the two. But also don’t take my word on this because it could be unrelated, but my husband, friends and I think it definitely could have been it.) ❤️What was ordered: Jumbo lump crab cake sandwich, blackened scallops, side salad, and fried oysters ❤️Stand outs: Blackened scallops ❤️Would I come back/recommend: Yes - I would recommend No - I wouldn’t come back
I went to this location last night with family. The location is pretty good. We had a 35min wait which is reasonable on a holiday week. While waiting I noticed was how hard the hostess worked. It was impressive. Moving tables, herding the people in line and making herself available to answer questions. When seated our server was awesome, light hearted and efficient. Food was fantastic. Everyone enjoyed. I will definitely be back.
We placed a catering/pick up order for moms birthday gathering. Initially we came in and had a few things to eat to sample before order was placed. We ended up pacing an order and everything was delicious. We had oysters on half shell, crab cakes, linguine with clams, scallops wrapped in bacon, everything was fantastic and enjoyed by all the guest. Will be back
After being told the wait would be an hour or more at a couple of regular spots we decided to try someplace else and discovered this little gem (which it turns out has the same owners as the restaurants we left). We were told it would be a 15-20 minute wait, ended up being only about 5 minutes. Excellent food and prompt, friendly service. Mainly a fish market with about ten tables and some outdoor seating. Had two of the specials - scallop appetizer which was very good and swordfish with chorizo butter. Swordfish was cooked perfectly. Staff could not have been more friendly or attentive.
Surflight Theatre
3. Surflight Theatre
4.7
(535)
Performing arts theater
Concerts & Shows
Community theater venue presenting classic plays, concerts, musicals & children's theatrical shows.
Slide 1 of 8
See top notch talent and quality productions of Broadway classics, as well as comedy shows, musical acts and wonderful children's theater all on wonderful Long Beach Island. There's literally not a bad seat in this charming theater, which now also offers a limited alcohol & beverage menu. The Surflight theatre is an LBI landmark & has been delivering high quality entertainment for decades
Saw a recent production of West Side Story with friends and really enjoyed it. I had never before seen and actual stage version, only the 1961 movie version. Also had never been to the Surflight before. The sets were very creative for the size of the stage, and really gave you the feel of the gritty streets, or interiors, using only a few well made pieces. I was also impressed at some of the moves the cast members pulled off at certain points, I know that can't be easy - you have to really pay attention to where you are without flinging yourself into the audience while doing an aerial cartwheel. My friends and I very much enjoyed the show.
Long live the Surflight Theatre. This place is the best, we are so grateful it is still around and performing post-Covid. We enjoy the comedy shows (we wish they were more often) and my nephew and now our daughter really enjoy the plays. We hope they stay open for a long, long time
Saw 9-5 here yesterday for matinee with my 9 yr old daughter. The show’s acting and production is impressive. Drove in from Brigantine and had no problem parking for free and grabbing lunch in short walking distance. I’m already planning our next visit. Far exceeded my expectations. All the talent of Broadway without the NYC hassle and expense. Highly recommend -especially if you have mobility issues as there were many bus trips and many with walkers, canes, etc.
Great little theater. We have taken the kids to three children's musicals. This past week we also had the pleasure of seeing West Side Story. It was a fantastic production. We enjoy making this a part of our annual LBI traditions.
I have been going to the Surflight Theater since I was a little child in the 70's and it has always been a favorite spot. However, this year, the cast is just the best I have ever seen. The dancing and singing rival that of Broadway-- I would not be surprised if you see some of this young talent there someday! Take your family- take your friends- they will all love you for it. You can order ice cream for intermission before the show and it will be a night to remember on LBI. I take my friends when they visit, and the next year, they always ask to go again!
We saw West Side Story and it was fantastic! The cast, music, and performances were amazing especially considering the price. Totally worth the drive (about an hour and 45 minutes from Philly). We’ll definitely be returning customers!
Got kicked out by a volunteer after I checked my phone for txt messages, (my loved one is super sick so kept my phone on) checked the txts then proceeded to get dragged out by a grandma pretending to be a employee quarter way through the show, terrible atmosphere waist of 50$ tickets
New Jersey Maritime Museum
4. New Jersey Maritime Museum
4.9
(236)
Museum
History museum
Nautical-themed museum packed with shipwreck finds, photos, navigation equipment & more.
Slide 1 of 8
Leave yourself plenty of time when visiting here. There is so much to see here. A wonderfully curated collection of New Jersey's maritime history. There are 3 floors of historical artifacts and items from over 100 years of events. I did not leave myself enough time to see everything here. While perusing everything, I could hear in another room someone speaking who sounded very knowledgeable about the museum and it's contents. I unfortunately didn't get a chance to talk with her. I definitely plan a return trip to spend more time examining all this place has to offer. Admission is free but I urge you to give a donation. I'm sure it would be very welcomed. The hours are: June, July, August open daily 10am to 4:00 pm. September through May Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10:00 am to 4:00pm.
What a neat place. So much to see and very nice people. Good see and make a donation! A lot of neat history
By far the best museum in the area. Free admission (they ask for donations at the door with a tip jar), and they even offer copies of the informative DVDs they play around the museum for free. Great place to bring kids, 2 stories of exhibits and plenty of things to see and read. The caretakers are also very nice and encourage guests to check things out.
A great place for all the history buffs. Parking and entrance is free, but donations are welcomed.
You could spend a whole day there and not see every moralist thing they have for example their exhibits, store and all their free DVDs about the East Coast. Love it love it love it. The owners are educated and extremely helpful. I believe one of the owners was the former mayor of Beach Haven no. You will not be sorry go to take a trip there to sit and the surrounding ocean community.
Great place to visit again and again. Jim gave my family and I a tour of the entire facility and was so generous with his time and extensive knowledge. He spoke highly of his wife and her dream to make this place a reality. Good vibes abound and you are sure to see and learn things that you have never experienced before. Truly a lovely way to spend an afternoon with both adults as well as children. Each room/exhibit is clean and curated with a love and attention to detail that is borderline obsessive - in the best way possible. I just can not say enough good things about this place; it's truly a gem! Thanks Deb & Jim, you both ROCK!
Amazing place lots of free goodies (certain things) in the Gift Shop the Maritime History is truly amazing I’ve learned so much. Damn Colonial Times just hits different.
Great place to take my 5 and 3 year old on a rainy day. Staff gave a scavenger hunt that kept the kids engaged. Staff also was engaging making it interesting for the little ones. Donation for admission. I would make the effort to visit rain or shine
Viking Village
5. Viking Village
4.5
(85)
Fish processing
Fishing pier
Slide 1 of 8
Viking Village is one of the hidden gems of LBI. I love perusing the little cottage-like stores and admiring the many fishing boats. And this time, I was lucky enough to catch a fishing boat unloading! The sunset cruises that leave from here are also well worth the price. If you’re looking for a more local LBI experience, Barnegat Light has so much to offer and Viking Village is definitely a must!
Nice collection of shops. Met Captain Lou, half-owner of the village & proprietor of Uff a Museum. There is an ATM for the places that only accept cash. There is a $3.99 charge per transaction, so be aware.
Everything from a coffee shop to a produce market to glass blowers to clothes & accessories, and more. On Fridays there's a tour of the docks. Fresh seafood market & fisherman's memorial.
Where to the fish and scallops that you eat come from? Viking Village is a commercial fishing dock. One of the last in NJ. Fully operations. Many boats and captains. Fridays at 10:00 AM they provide a tour to the public. Really GREAT.
Took a ride to Viking Village expecting to see a bunch of shops, get something to eat something to drink, but the food vendors were closed and it was a beautiful day. Some of the shops were closed also. surprised with the Labor Day weekend upon us. the shops that were open were cordial and inviting, very interesting merchandise to sort through.
Waste of money what a tourist trap. The only fun activity was the archery. But they only allow you to shoot 3 arrows that’s it. Even though there was nobody else in line. He even said that he does not want to retrieve the arrows when we said we would immediately leave the minute anybody showed up in line. He said that is the policy only 3 arrows.
Nice shops and a great free tour on Fridays. They had a local chef who demonstrated how to properly cook dry scallops, which were delicious. A must visit if you're on the island.
I didn't see a rescheduled date posted for craft show my wife was disappointed we drove 100 miles.
Thundering Surf Waterpark
6. Thundering Surf Waterpark
4.4
(382)
Temporarily Closed
Water park
Water & Amusement Parks
Large, seasonal entertainment venue featuring a water park, miniature golf course & casual eateries.
Slide 1 of 8
This waterpark is amazing. Especially the crew. Went there, the slides were good and the food as well. I especially liked wraps. Definitely recommend ordering wraps. There was a big line, but i think it was worth eating. Salad was good too.
Fantastic park and staff and very safe. The food rule is kind of weird, but you can try to find a bench area to get around it and eat outside because their food is pretty unhealthy. Maybe a few more healthy options would be good but overall the slides are great. Staff is great. Wait lines are great. It's even better than I remember when I was a kid.
What a perfect way to spend the afternoon with kids! The staff were super kind and friendly. The park itself if remarkably clean. There were attentive lifeguards everywhere and they even had a playa bowl! Highly recommend getting a cabana, so nice to have a private space with service! Will definitely come back when we are in town.
Thundering Surf Waterpark is the perfect splash zone for a hot day on LBI! From thrilling slides like the Cannon Bowl and Double Dare Falls to the relaxing Lazy River, it’s got something for everyone. The splash zones for younger kids are well-designed and safe, and the park is clean and well-staffed. Lines move quickly, and the vibe is super family-friendly. A great complement to Fantasy Island next door!
This review is for the Mini Golf, this is one of the two course my family and I visit every year, it's a clean fun course that is quite challenging at times, the lay out is really nice with the caves and water features. They probably should take down the ridiculous COVID era signs though. I suggest this as a Mini Golf stop.
*autism friendly* We visited for the first time last week and spoke to Debra at the door. She was so pleasant and immediately helpful. She gave us a special wristband for my daughter, which I was able to wear since she won’t, such a thoughtful accommodation. My daughter is mostly good at following rules, but it’s a new place and she may not realize if a lifeguard’s whistle is meant for her. I am always close-by and I try to give the staff a heads-up so that I can relay the instructions to my daughter but it's not always possible mid-play. So sometimes we do get the whistle :) Every staff member I spoke to was immediately kind, patient and understanding. We are so grateful and had the best day. Thank you for creating an inclusive space. We’ll definitely be back!
My four kids had an absolute blast here. We found that all the staff had excellent customer service. I was very impressed with Alex, I believe she’s a manager. She was very vigilant in the safety of my son who was slightly under 42 in and felt bad that his twin sister was able to go on more things than he was. She also properly fitted his life vest and made it fun for him. The guards were all very attentive, especially at the bottom of the slides where they had to help my kids a few times bc their tubes flipped at the end. We definitely will be back next summer and look forward to seeing Alex and showing her how our son is over 42in! Thank you for caring so much Alex!
Great experience with the grandkids at the water park. The staff was friendly helpful and courteous
LBI Parasail
7. LBI Parasail
4.9
(99)
Permanently Closed
Parasailing ride operator
Tours
Slide 1 of 8
Parasailing with LBI Parasail was a fantastic experience. The crew made it a very enjoyable and fun time! I would recommend ot wholeheartedly.
Had a wonderful day with two of my grandchildren (young adults) parasailing last week! I've done it before, but it was their first time and they loved it. The crew was absolutely wonderful as they explained everything and made us all feel relaxed and safe. It was a great ride - and great pictures! Can't wait to do it again. Thank you!!
LBI Parasail folks are professionals and very helpful. It's pretty safe too. It took us around 80-90 minutes on boats in the water to complete the activity. We were parasailing for approx 8-9 minutes and the views were amazing. Long beach doesn't have any cityscape, so, it's Ocean in all the directions with a small strip of the island. The views are superb. So, I would definitely recommend the place. We reached the place 10 minutes before our time, and were immediately on boarded. I would suggest to do this in the early morning hours. Those who are doing it for first time, & never been in the water before, the ride is superb bumpy because of the waves (depends on weather conditions as well) There are no changing rooms, but there's a public restroom just across the street. All in all, great time !
So much fun! The 2 guys who took us out were personable, friendly and knowledgeable! Good vibes the whole time. Totally worth it!!
If you are going to experience Parasailing this is the crew to do it with. 100%. Captains Zack and Ty made us feel comfortable and safe from the moment we arrived. We were impressed that the boat was super clean and seemed brand new and had the most up to date equipment. The crew were polite and professional, yet sociable, and put safety in the forefront. We took a short ride out to the ocean which was slightly bumpy at times but that was part of the fun … even the two young kids on the boat were laughing. They gave instructions while riding out and then again individually when it was our turn. We were 1 of 4 groups of 2 that were going to be going up. Both the lift off the boat and the landing back were so smooth … nothing to be nervous about. Within seconds of floating up we were in amazement of how peaceful it was. I would say our session was about 10 minutes and the entire time on the boat was about 1 hour. Definitely get the photo package!! Sooo worth it.
Great time! Very professional, and customer friendly. We couldn't make our morning booking, which was already paid for, but they were able to move us to a later time slot. The captain and first mate/photographer/all around cool dude definitely added to the experience. Highly recommend. GR
My son and I had a great time! The crew was really friendly, and the boat was very clean. All around a great time.
We had a wonderful family experience parasailing here. Great staff, wonderful afternoon. Highly recommend and we’ll definitely come back again.
Ron Jon Surf Shop
8. Ron Jon Surf Shop
4.6
(669)
Surf shop
Shopping
Surfer shop stocking boards of various types, plus swimwear, apparel & accessories for beach life.
Slide 1 of 8
One month ago, I bought a Pura Vida ring for my girlfriend when we were in Disney Springs. My girl girlfriend loves the ring so much I decided to surprise her by having it made out of white gold and real diamonds. I showed pictures of the ring to my jeweler, but he insisted he needed the real ring. He sent me a follow-up text stating he could not contact anyone at Ron-Jons in Disney Springs. So, I went to Ron-Jons in Ship Bottom, NJ: Briana (a manager) got me in contact with Disney Springs Ron Jon Erin (a manager in Florida) found the ring and had it shipped to me UPS so I could give to my jeweler. Both were so helpful; I just wanted to write a real good review for both of them. And today, Kate in Ship Bottom was helpful in guiding me through this review/appraisal process on line. Thanks to All, Ken Musto
Update: July 2025 - the new store is beautiful. Not sure why they downsized but it still has some very nice clothing. Seems like they’re more focused on clothing rather than clothing and other things like the old store (ie:, surf boards, sex wax, sunglasses, gifts, souvenirs, etc. which is a bit disappointing.. however, still one of my favorite places on LBI! Ron Jon’s is a must see in LBI! So many amazing things. Clothing, beachwear, surfing, and so many fun and one of a kind accessories of all kinds! Can’t visit the island with out making a stop here!
I had a great experience in the new shop. They were nice and I walked away with some special goodies. The palm tree air freshener is no joke.
The best surf shop on the Jersey Shore! Also has a ton of beach supplies as well as souvenirs. This is your one stop shop for bathing suits and flip flops. Men's, Women's, and Children. 4 floors of Awesomeness!!! Tons of staff in dedicated areas to help you find what you need. Head to the ocean straight off the Garden State Parkway to LBI... You can't miss it!
Ron Jon Surf Shop is a great place to buy clothes and sporting goods. Although it is pretty expensive for basic outdoor wear. Also, if you are looking to buy a surfboard I would suggest you go to a local shop because you will definitely find something better quality.
Broke my heart with the new build. Why did you ruin one of the most iconic places on the island? Turned one of my favorite places into a sad beige nightmare.
Clean store, attentive staff and plenty of options in a variety of brands and styles. Amole parking and solid location makes this a place to visit when going to LBI
Ron Jon is such a great place to visit for a souvenir. You're sure to buy a shirt, hat or at least bumper sticker with the legendary Ron Jon logo. Prices are totally reasonable, huge selection, a clearance section with some decent choices and of course a giant surfboard for your photo op.
Barnegat Light Museum & Edith Gwinn Gardens
9. Barnegat Light Museum & Edith Gwinn Gardens
4.8
(86)
Museum
History Museums
Slide 1 of 8
This weekend we participated in the 25th Lighthouse Challenge NJ - The challenge is to visit 11 lighthouse sites, 3 lifesaving stations, and 1 museum over the two day weekend. Stop #6. What a nice find! The museum is a few blocks away from the lighthouse. We didn’t even know it existed. Worth the visit. Volunteers are very knowledgeable and super nice. It used to be a one room schoolhouse and we met a woman who was a student there back in the day. Street parking. Free to visit.
Barnegat Light Museum & Edith Gwinn Gardens is a hidden gem that beautifully showcases local history and nature. The museum is small but packed with fascinating artifacts, including the original first-order Fresnel lens from the Barnegat Lighthouse—an amazing piece of maritime history! It’s incredible to see such a unique item up close and learn about its importance in guiding sailors along the coast. Outside, the Edith Gwinn Gardens are peaceful and well-maintained, filled with lovely native plants and flowers that attract birds and butterflies. The staff is welcoming and knowledgeable, adding to the charm of this lovely spot.
Such a beautiful piece of history. The staff is extremely friendly and very knowledgeable about the history of the lighthouse, museum (formerly a schoolhouse) and the overall area. The garden is lovely and well maintained. I enjoyed the little video about the coast guard dog Sinbad. That is definitely great for kids to check out. This museum is small, but it is really worth checking out if you are going to the lighthouse.
This is a charming little museum about the history of Barnegat Light. My young grandchildren enjoyed the displays particularly if the old school artifacts. the docents often give kids stickers or sand dollar shells. In back of the museum is the lovely Edith Gwinn garden which had a small koi pond. There is no entrance charge but donations welcome.
I have visited the island my whole life and I regret not coming here sooner! What a treasure trove of historical awesomeness that goes way beyond just the light house itself. Guests and residents alike must come and experience the rich history this museum has collected.
A cute & quaint place to checkout after the Barnegate Lighthouse & Gift-shop/Museum/Visitor Center. It definitely complements the Barnegate Lighthouse visit, getting to check out some more historical stuff related to the lighthouse.
Wonderful historical building, within walking distance of the lighthouse. Totally worth visiting after a visit to the barnegat lighthouse. They have the original lens inside the building, and the caretakers are very nice and knowledgeable. They also have lots of history about this building in particular which apparently was a school at one point. It's free entry, and they're open most days so drop by.
Great little museum and gardens. The displays were very informative, and the 2 docents were very knowledgeable & helpful, a total joy to visit here.
Tropics - Schooner's Wharf
10. Tropics - Schooner's Wharf
5.0
(11)
Clothing store
Shopping
Slide 1 of 5
Love love love Tropics! Awesome store filled with Crocs, women’s clothing, and accessories. They have made me feel very safe shopping in the store during COVID-19. Also, one of the very few stores that allows try-ons! After trying clothes on, the employees sanitize the clothes with a high-powered steamer. Other stores should really consider this! I would definitely recommend shopping here.
I got my first pair of crocs from Tropics and I love them! The store is very well stocked. It’s the best place on the island to find high quality women’s clothing items like sweaters, summer dresses or colorful t-shirts! Highly recommend to stop by and check their crocs selection for both kids and adults.
Beautiful women's wear, your favorite crocs, and summer tops to cover all the family! Beach needs of all kinds. Open on June 15th- check it out.
Nice selection, it has all the stuff I would love to buy but would never use! Recommended for gifts.
Do you guys sell woman’s sneakers?
Hartland Golf & Arcade
11. Hartland Golf & Arcade
4.6
(244)
Temporarily Closed
Miniature golf course
Fun & Games
Slide 1 of 8
A very well kept mini golf course. We go there all the time. They even have a small arcade. Very pleasant people that work there. Give them a try if your in the area.
Hartland has been a fixture in Ship Bottom for decades. The course is fun and the greens have always been maintained. While it is probably the best looking of the central golf courses, the greens are starting to be a little tilted and uneven. The arcade has also (admittedly like almost all arcades) turned into a lot of ticket machines - the 6 player X-Men cabinet is long gone. It's still well worth golfing here, I go every trip to the island. There are steps and elevation changes, and it is cash only.
I did not go to the golf, but the arcade was awesome! The prices for prizes were cheap compared to other places. The best arcade for prizes on this island!
Very fun and well kept! More age appropriate for teens and adults than younger kids with the trickiness of the course but so much fun still! Cash only, ATM available. 4 players per hole.
A pleasant mini-golf course that manages to pack a lot into a surprisingly small spce, including a lot of elevation change and challenging holes -- and a chance at any of several prizes at the end. Be warned that it's cash-only; no credit cards are accepted.
This place is so FRICKIN AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I’ve been a regular for my entire life, and my parents have also been regulars since the place opened. I’ve seen many workers come and go and without fail they are always enthusiastic, very very polite, and awesome. The greens are ALWAYS clean and maintained, you can tell they have a lot of pride in the course. We even get to pick our own ball color unlike many Jersey Shore minigolf courses. Also the balls are not those tacky cheap ones! On top of this, the arcade is FRICKIN AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! All of the girls in the arcade are always so nice and generous. I love that they still use tokens and tickets, it gives such a nice retro feeling. Much better than having a card and point based system. Finally, the owner Mr. Hartman is quite literally the best person you’ll ever meet. You’ll find he is amazing with kids and is very generous and welcoming to all customers. The best part about this course is their tournaments every Wednesday. They are always so fun and it’s so nice to have the chance to win a raffle prize if you didn’t win a trophy! This place has been voted the #1 golf course on the island for a REASON. This place is bound to bring you tons of fun.
My job, My Jacob's Ladder had a great day out,great weather, great people to share it with. Clients smiles all around worth the trip. Making memories 1 person at a time ... 😎👍
They have souvenir custom golf balls u can buy, an 18-hole course, it was fun, and I also managed to get a hole in one.
Sandbar Mini Golf
12. Sandbar Mini Golf
4.0
(41)
Miniature golf course
Fun & Games
Slide 1 of 8
Clean, well-kept course. More challenging than it appears! Cash only, but there's an ATM next door.
Had a good time. They also had custom golf balls u could buy. And I got a hole in one.
We usually go to Sand Trap but decided to give this place a try since it was closer to where we were staying. It wasn’t really that much fun. There was only one fun hole on the whole course. If you like basic putting greens this might be your place. I am sticking with the Sand Trap next time. Much more fun.
fun fact about the golf that is there on the plot that it is on today was my house and my family old company that is no longer a thing but will always and shall be remembered was called the sandbar it was a family ran business i wasnt born then but i remember it being there after i was born and still living on that exact plot before this mini golf was a thing but yeah thats a fun fact for you today xoxo
Went miniature golfing here in the summer time. This place is great and has everything to be a nice fun entertaining course that will keep you and your friends and family happy. Highly Recommend.
We just left tonight- Friday 8/6 at 8:05pm. My niece lost her Money… And it was a longshot, I know… But We went up to the shack to ask if any money was turned in. A teenage girl with two braids in her hair eating a pot pie was ruder than any teenager I have ever met. And I was a high school teacher for 15 years. I understand that we are short staffed on the island… We live here. But the people at this mini golf that we’ve been going to for years need to know how sarcastic and condescending this employee was.
Probably the worst course on the island. There’s reason this is one always empty and the other ones are packed. I was confused as to why, so I thought I’d give it a shot. The fact that someone dedicated time to design this course is mind boggling. There’s absolutely no creativity influenced here at all. A rock literally sits in the middle of each hole. Same thing every time. Not to mention the turf is remarkably dirty and stops the ball at unwanted times. The owners should just sell the course or redesign it. I hope there is something going on behind the scenes where they are money laundering or something because this place is always empty yet they remain open. Now I see why there empty. They put no effort into making the course fun. Don’t waste your time here. Go to flamingo or literally anywhere else before coming here.
this place was so dumb like the dude there was nice but the course sucked it was all the same thing and the only obstacle was a rock. don’t come here !
LBI Historical Association
13. LBI Historical Association
5.0
(2)
Museum
History Museums
Slide 1 of 1
Went on a walking tour of Beach Haven with the Historical Society. It was wonderful. Been coming to LBI for 40 years and learned things about the history of the island I never knew. Well worth your time and really appreciate them offering the tours. Thank you
Surf City 5 and 10
14. Surf City 5 and 10
4.6
(882)
Temporarily Closed
Department store
Shopping
Slide 1 of 8
Great quirky little store with no set theme. Has a wide variety of items ranging from souvenirs, hotsauces, first aid supplies, kitchen items, toys, clothes, and home decor. Staff is friendly and HONEST. I forgot my phone on the counter, and an employee ran out to return it to me within seconds of me leaving the store. 10/10 recommend!
Love the 5&10 for many reasons. It has been here for as long as I can remember and you’re always able to find fun, inexpensive LBI souvenirs! The best thing I’ve ever found are the dog names. They have every name you can think of! Charlie is of course a popular dog name, but they have Bo and Remy (my two other pups). They even have Remington as well, which I was so surprised to find! This year they have paw shaped magnets instead of the bones. They’re super cute and if your dog’s name is unique, they most likely have it!
always a joy to stop at Surf City 5 and Dime. once my children enjoyed finding treasures here, now my grandchildren do. Nice selection of everything you can think of. the store is kept nice & tidy
My family and I always come here! They are a little pricey but I wouldn't say anymore expensive than any other shop by the beach. I love the family business and that the story carries many things. There is also a clearance section which is great for sweatshirts, shirts, and shorts. This store has everything you need!
Store doesn’t open at 9am posted time. They seem to think it’s cute to post “late openings happen, we’re on island time” on the door, but this completely disregards the literal 20 people who looked up the opening time online and were waiting outside for 20 minutes this morning. It’s not cool to waste people’s time - change your hours if you don’t want to be there at 9
Great souvenirs, clothes, flip flops and knickknacks.
We always enjoy stopping in when we are down the shore. Lots of great souvenirs for those on vacation as well as items you may have forgotten to pack. Books, puzzles, toys and clothes, and more. My only complaint and this goes for most of the shops, they aren't really plus size friendly. Every shirt and hoodie I saw went to a 2x. While a 2x is plus size, sadly, some of us just need another size up. I would love an LBI hoodie, but I can't find one. Please consider adding 3x and even 4x to your clothing lines.
I could spend my entire day at the store! The staff is extremely kind very helpful and their product is perfect for any occasion that you're looking for. I just went in the other day and it made me want summer! I look forward to coming back here again this is a great spot to grab something for myself my boyfriend a family member or even just a housewarming gift do they have it all! Sarah who works there is awesome!
Joe Pop's Shore Bar & Restaurant
15. Joe Pop's Shore Bar & Restaurant
3.9
(367)
Temporarily Closed
Restaurant
Nightlife
DJs spin dance tunes & bands cover popular songs in this lively hot spot with an outdoor tiki bar.
Slide 1 of 8
Bavarian Pretzel, Clam Chowder, Joes Dog with Bacon and fried onions (no pic) were delicious. Street corn came out over done but they quickly swapped it out and was very good. Virgin Spicy Margarita was delicious and the Sun Cruisers were tasty
The food was really good. We ordered steamed clams and street corn for happy hour. My husband got the coconut shrimp. The food was really good but the bus boy . brought wrong food to our table. Then we had to wait about 20 minutes for our food to be cooked before it was brought to the table. I feel like the server should have brought the food to the table instead of the buss boy because she knew where it went. It was during happy hour.
SHIP BOTTOM / LBI: A true Long Beach Island classic, Joe Pop's Shore Bar and Restaurant is a must-visit, especially if you are bringing your pup along! Their lively outdoor tiki bar is dog friendly and perfectly located near Route 72 in the heart of the island. It is a great spot to kick back with a burger, sip a tropical cocktail, and enjoy live music under colorful shade sails and playful tiki decor. The menu is extensive, with something for everyone. We loved the vegan Beyond Burger, the crispy fish sammy, and the refreshing LBI Punch. Plus, shoutout to our awesome server, Colin, who made the whole experience even better!
The reviews saying "best crab cake they've ever had" are breaking my soul... The food here was atrocious (especially the crab cakes)! And the portion sizes couldn't satiate an infant. We left hungry and unsatisfied despite a hefty bill.
Joe Pops nails that perfect mix of beach bar energy and real deal comfort. You walk in and the place already feels alive even before the band hits their first note. The room has that warm glow where everyone looks like they are exactly where they want to be. Drinks flow smooth. Service moves fast. The whole place has this buzzing energy that makes you settle in and think yeah this is the spot for the night. The food is way better than a lot of places that try to coast on location. The god is the star. It comes out stacked with flavor and attitude. Every bite is loaded. No thin slices. No weak spots. Just a huge punch of taste that makes you sit up a little straighter and nod like alright they know what they are doing. It is comfort food with serious confidence. The kind of dish you remember the next day and find yourself craving again even if you were full to the ears when you ate it. The live music is what pushes Joe Pops over the top. The bands come in with energy and skill. They play like they are out to win the room every single night. The sound fills the place without drowning you. You can still talk. You can still laugh. You can still feel the whole thing in your chest when the bass hits. People dance. People sing along. Even the folks who swear they never dance end up moving. It is that kind of atmosphere. Honest. Fun. Loud in the right way. It turns a regular night into one of those nights you replay later because the vibe was just that good. And the Nerds!
Karaoke night was decent but if the place was full it could've been great. Closed at midnight on a Thursday (Google said open til 2) so that was weak sauce. Bartenders and the DJ were cool tho
Disappointing Experience – Would Not Recommend During our recent visit to LBI, my husband and I decided to try this restaurant based on a recommendation. Unfortunately, it ended up being the most disappointing experience of our trip. The atmosphere was fine—your average bar-style restaurant—but things quickly went downhill once we ordered. We started with a crab cake appetizer priced at $14. What we received was shockingly small—about the size of a quarter. We politely sent it back, feeling that it simply wasn’t worth the price. What happened next was even more surprising: the owner personally approached us and, rather than showing concern or offering a solution, questioned our decision to return it. When we explained our reasoning, she told us to leave. As patrons who were ready to spend well over $150 on drinks and dinner, we were stunned by how unprofessionally the situation was handled. For a restaurant owner, this is a huge misstep. There’s a way to handle customer feedback—this wasn’t it. If you’re looking for great seafood on LBI, skip this place and go to The Shellfish. The food there is far superior, portions are generous, and the service is exceptional. We visited several excellent restaurants during our stay, but sadly, this one left a very negative impression. Would not return or recommend.
Awesome! Awesome experience! Security thorough, but friendly. Bartenders were professional, accurate and attentive. Pool tables and shuffle board are added incentives. Bathrooms were kept tidy even at 1 am. Parking easy! The Nerds playing twice in one week... priceless!
Flamingo Miniature Golf Course
16. Flamingo Miniature Golf Course
4.8
(237)
Miniature golf course
Fun & Games
This popular, cash-only miniature golf course is an area staple with a traditional setup.
Slide 1 of 8
This was a fun golf course but is definitely geared towards children. The holes are pretty easy for a grown up. They are fun and different which I enjoyed.
Great place to hang with family during summer days. We went there with our teenagers nephews and they liked it. Very reasonable pricing and friendly staff. They have various 18 different mini golfs.
The Flamingo Miniature Golf Course was absolute adorable!! The different holes were so much fun! This was the cleanest mini golf course I've ever been to. Everything was fresh and clean. My family and I had a great time! We loved our sports themed golf balls! We can't wait to go back again soon. ⛳
We went here for the first time last night and had a wonderful experience! The man at the front hut was so friendly and welcoming and made our night! It was extremely busy and crowded, which is to be expected during the summer. However, even with many groups it moved pretty quickly! All of the holes had cute obstacles and were fun to play. At the end they give everyone lollipops - which was a great addition! The atmosphere is one of the best in LBI in my opinion. They even gave an award for best dressed at the end of the round. Whenever we go mini golfing again, we will definitely come back here!
I love it!! They have a lot of challenging obstacles that are fun!! It's fun for ALL ages!! I even got the "lucky ball" of the night so I got a free game coupon!!! Two people in my family, on the 18th hole, won a $0.50 off coupon for their next game!! It was a great night!
I’ve been playing mini golf on this course for 25+ years and the nostalgia never fades! The staff are always kind and happy to see you. The price is also right! The course may appear simple but there are tricks at every hole. I will continue to play mini golf here for years to come!
It's a VERY rare thing when you get a business owner on the phone so easily - and to me, that's pretty special. That's someone who typically takes pride in what they do. Our family has been coming to LBI since the late 80's. We've seen it change a lot over the years but glad to see Bill Burr's Mini Golf has pretty much stayed the same for decades. The great thing about it is, it's the perfect family place. The holes aren't too easy but aren't too hard either. It has the great fun and quirkiness I think a true mini golf course should have. It's a great mix for a wide variety of people. Additionally, the upkeep is wonderful. Everything worked well, looked good, and the flowers were amazing. Recommendation: if you're coming with a large group, call ahead and plan to come early (it makes life a lot easier in many ways). Also important, I think it's cash only. I know that's rare now adays but it's worth it!
Kirk is truly passionate about his course and cares a lot for his patrons. The little things he does like providing trophies, taking signatures of players, and giving secret advice to those who ask make the course stand out from all the others. It's also fun to play! Definitely get to Flamingo when you're on LBI!
Planning a trip to Long Beach Island?
Save all the best places to visit with WanderlogDownload the travel planning app everyone's been raving about
  • Itinerary + map in one view
  • Live collaboration
  • Auto-import hotels and reservations
  • Optimize your route
  • Offline access on mobile
  • Optimize your route
  • See time and distance between all your places
Learn more
Get the iOS app from the App Store
Get the Android app from Google Play
0 places saved to your trip to Long Beach Island