Your guide to Fall on Long Beach Island
While Summer may be coming to a close, local summer is right around the corner. September and October bring quieter crowds, shorter wait times at your favorite restaurant, warm ocean temps, and tons of different Fall events. Fall weekends are packed with can’t miss events. From the legendary Chowderfest to Jetty’s Shellabration, plus fishing tournaments, live music, and food festivals, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy LBI this season. Whether you’re a longtime visitor or discovering the island for the first time, here’s your guide to the best fall events on LBI.
Beach Haven Chowderfest
Why is Chowderfest the Biggest Fall Event on LBI?
The Beach Haven Chowder Cook-Off, affectionately known as Chowderfest, stands as Long Beach Island's most iconic and anticipated fall event. Scheduled for October 4–5, 2025, this two day celebration draws 20,000 + visitors and locals alike to Taylor Avenue in Beach Haven. It's a fun way to spend an offseason weekend and try chowder from multiple different spots across the island.
What Happens on Each Day?
Saturday, October 4 – Merchant Mart (11 AM–4 PM):
A free, open air market featuring over 75 local and regional vendors offering handmade goods, crafts, and unique finds. Enjoy live music, food trucks, and a lively atmosphere perfect for all ages.Beach Haven Chowder Cook-offSunday, October 5 – Chowder Cook-Off (11 AM–4 PM):
A ticketed event where attendees can sample unlimited chowder from competing restaurants in both red and white categories. Vote for your favorite to help crown the Grand Champion. The day also includes live music, food and beverage vendors, and family-friendly activities.Chowderfest
What Makes Chowderfest So Special?
Unlimited Chowder Tastings: Sample a variety of chowders from top local restaurants, each vying for the coveted Grand Champion title.
Community-Focused: Organized by the Beach Haven Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Hunger Foundation of Southern Ocean County, all proceeds benefit local causes, including food banks, parks, and community events. Support the local economy and greater Ocean County while enjoying a nice fall weekend trying chowder, listening to live music, and grabbing a drink.
Family-Friendly: With live music, a youth area, and activities for all ages, Chowderfest is a perfect outing for families looking to enjoy the fall season together.
How to Attend
Tickets: Pre-purchased tickets for Sunday’s Cook-Off are available for $30 per person; day-of tickets are $35. Children under 10 are free unless they wish to vote, in which case a ticket is required. All attendees must have a ticket for entry.
Parking: Limited parking is available at the Beach Haven School for a $15 donation. Street parking is also available but fills up quickly, so arrive early.Beach Haven Chowder Cook-off
Accessibility: The event is handicap accessible, with paved paths and accessible restrooms.
Pet Policy
Dogs are welcome on Saturday during the Merchant Mart but are not permitted on Sunday unless they are certified service animals. All dogs must be on a short leash.Beach Haven Chowder Cook-off
Location
Taylor Avenue Waterfront
Beach Haven, NJ 08008
LBI Fly Kite Festival
Why is the LBI FLY Kite Festival a Fall Must-See?
The 11th Annual LBI FLY Invitational Kite Festival is Long Beach Island's most visually stunning and family-friendly event of the fall season. Scheduled for October 10–11, 2025, this free, two-day festival transforms the beaches of Ship Bottom where massive kites and stunt kites light up the sky. The festival offers something for everyone and is a unique event to see.
What Can You Expect to See?
It is a completely free event where you can watch hundreds of massive kites & stunt kites fly at once. Professional kite fliers from around the world attend and this year brings Rolf Zimmermann (Germany)Ron Gibian (California) Scott Hampton (Utah) Ken McNeil (South Carolina).
Festival Schedule & Locations
Friday, October 10
Main Kite Field: Ship Bottom Beaches (18th–27th St) | 12 PM – 5 PMSaturday, October 11
Main Kite Field: Ship Bottom Beaches (18th–27th St) | 10 AM – 4 PMNight Fly: 68th St Beach, Long Beach Township | 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Note: The Night Fly is a special event where illuminated kites light up the evening sky.
What Makes This Year Special?
The 2025 festival introduces several exciting features:
Art Kite Field: Artists and kite makers will showcase their framed masterpieces in the sky.
Dual Line & Sport Kite Displays: Learn to fly with Ken McNeil and Team.
Drum Box Kite Raffle & Art Kite Raffle: Take home a piece of the festival!
Ship Bottom Kite Unveiling: Be the first to see this year’s signature festival kite.
Jetty Shellabration
What is Jetty Shellabration?
This community event spotlights oysters and their role in keeping our waters and coastal ecosystem clean. It runs on Saturday, October 11, 2025 from 11am-4pm at 6805 Long Beach Boulevard, Brant Beach, NJ 08008.
What Can You Do There?
There will be a Raw Bar, Food, Craft Beer, Wine, Bloody Mary's and Mimosas, Live Music, Kids Activities & Hands-On Education about oysters.
18 Mile Run & 12k
What is the 18 Mile Run & 12K?
The 2025 LBI 18-Mile Run, organized by the St. Francis Community Center, is a premier event for runners seeking a scenic and challenging course. This historic race, starting in Holgate and finishing at Barnegat Lighthouse Park, offers breathtaking ocean views and a well-supported route, you get to truly experience the different vibes in each town.
When is it?
Sunday, October 12th
What Makes the Course Special?
Running past your favorite shops in downtown Beach Haven, beautiful estates in Loveladies, and the feel of an old sailor town in Barnegat Light you truly get to experience the island for all its worth.
Well-Supported Race Course:
Multiple water stations, course supervision, and a well-marked route ensure a safe and enjoyable race for participants of all levels.
Even if you're not running, the event has Cheer Zones where you can gather at key points along the course to support runners.
Clam Jam surf festival
What is the Clam Jam Surf Festival?
Jetty hosts the Clam Jam every September to bring the community together. It is a surf comp for LBI locals where teams of two go head to head.
Why Should You Go?
It is a great opportunity to watch some of the island’s best surfers and meet new people.
When Does It Happen?
The event is run on a Saturday or Sunday in September when the waves are good. Although there is no set date for the comp, you know the waves are going to be good when they host it so you’re in for a treat.
The LBI Fall Classic
What is the LBI Fall Classic?
A 13 week surf fishing tournament with more than just one category to fish for. This year is the 71st annual competition
When Does It Take Place?
This 13 week tournament starts August 30th and runs through November 30th.
What’s New for 2025?
This year brings the addition of Fluke and a new prize structure so be sure to check out this link to familiarize yourself with the new rules.
Visit your favorite spots
What Happens to Restaurant Wait Times in the Fall?
Your favorite restaurants will have shorter wait times and reservations can be made closer to your night out.
Why is Fall the Perfect Balance?
Fall provides a nice balance between the lively summer energy and the calm of the off season. With fewer crowds, you can grab a table at popular spots that are nearly impossible to get into during July and August. At the same time, enough visitors and locals stick around to keep the atmosphere lively, giving you the best of both worlds.
What Does This Mean for You?
Whether you want a spontaneous night out with friends, a quieter date night, or a family dinner without the long waits, fall makes dining on LBI easier and more enjoyable. It’s a chance to experience your favorite restaurants in a more relaxed setting while still feeling connected to the island’s energy.
Bike rides and Beach walks
Why Fall is Perfect for Bike Rides and Beach Walks
Peaceful bike rides with the family and without the crowds make for a good time to explore the ins and outs of the island.
What Can You Experience?
With fewer people around, you can really take in the charm of each town, notice the unique homes and gardens, and enjoy the natural beauty of the dunes and bay. Long stretches of beach are easier to walk, and you might even spot some local wildlife along the way.
How to Make the Most of It
Bring the whole family or just a friend, pack a small picnic or grab a bite at a local cafe, and make a day of exploring. Fall’s cooler temperatures and softer sunlight make rides and walks even more enjoyable than in the peak summer heat.
Bring your pet to the beach
Can I Bring My Dog to the Beach This Fall?
Fall is one of the best times to hit the beaches of Long Beach Island with your four-legged friend. The crowds have thinned, the temperatures are cooler, and your dog can enjoy the sand and surf almost like it’s their own private playground. Each town on LBI has its own rules for when and where pups are welcome, so you can plan the perfect beach day while keeping things safe and fun for everyone. Here’s a guide to help you navigate dog-friendly beaches this season.
Long Beach Township
When: Dogs are permitted on the beach from October 1st to May 15th.
Where: All public beaches within Long Beach Township.
Rules: Dogs must be leashed at all times.
Beach Haven
When: Dogs are allowed on the beach from September 16th to May 14th.
Where: All public beaches, including the small dog-friendly beach located at the bay on Taylor Avenue.
Rules: Dogs must be leashed, and owners must clean up after their pets.
Ship Bottom
When: Dogs are permitted on the beach from October 2nd to April 30th.
Where: All public beaches within Ship Bottom.
Rules: Dogs must be leashed at all times.
Harvey Cedars
When: Dogs are allowed on the beach from September 16th to May 29th.
Where: All public beaches within Harvey Cedars.
Rules: Dogs must be leashed at all times.
Surf City
When: Dogs are permitted on the beach from October 1st to April 30th.
Where: All public beaches within Surf City.
Rules: Dogs must be leashed at all times.
Barnegat Light
When: Dogs are allowed on the beach from October 1st to April 16th.
Where: All public beaches within Barnegat Light.
Rules: Dogs must be leashed at all times.
Tips for a Pawsitive Beach Day
Leash Laws: Always keep your dog on a leash, as required by local ordinances.
Clean Up: Bring waste bags and dispose of them properly to keep the beaches clean.
Hydration: Ensure your dog has access to fresh water, especially after playing in the sand.
Shade: Provide your dog with shade to prevent overheating during sunny days.
Respect Wildlife: Keep your dog away from wildlife and respect their natural habitats.
