Outdoor activities on Long Beach Island

1. Beach Days and Swimming

With 18 miles of coastline, LBI is home to some of the cleanest, widest beaches in New Jersey. Each town has its own beach access points, and lifeguards are stationed daily during the summer season.

Local tip: Long Beach Township is the largest municipality on the island so if you get their beach badge you can go to any of the 14 subsections that it encompasses and use their badge. 68th street in Brant Beach has public restrooms and is a popular spot for day trippers.

2. Surfing

LBI is an 18 mile sandbar and has great waves throughout the entire island. Bring a 2mil or 3/2 wetsuit as water temps vary between 55-72 in the summer.

3. Biking

Long Beach Island is bike friendly and mostly flat, making it ideal for cruising around the back roads. In summer, biking is often faster than driving.

Bike rentals are available across the island, with options for beach cruisers, tandem bikes, and kid friendly setups.

4. Fishing

Whether you're surfcasting or heading out on a boat, LBI is a fisherman’s paradise. You’ll find fluke, striped bass, bluefish, tautog, Seabass, and crab

  • Fishing Charters – Try Miss Barnegat Light or Carolyn Ann III for ocean trips

  • Crabbing is best from any public bay dock

5. Kayaking and Paddleboarding

The bayside of LBI is full of calm water perfect for paddling. Sunset cruises, early morning paddles, or exploring hidden coves are all part of the fun.

Top Launch Areas:

  • Bayview Park (Brant Beach) – Easy launch with rentals available

  • Sunset Park (Harvey Cedars) – Peaceful area with great views

Rentals can also be found at Bayview park in Brant Beach.

6. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park

Located at the northern tip of the island in Barnegat Light, this state park is a must visit. You can walk the jetty, climb the historic lighthouse, enjoy birdwatching, or have a picnic with ocean and inlet views.

  • Address: 208 Broadway, Barnegat Light, NJ 08006

  • Hours: Open year-round (lighthouse climb available in season)

7. Sunset Watching

One of the simplest and most rewarding activities on LBI is catching a bayside sunset.

8. Pickleball

Pickleball has exploded in popularity on Long Beach Island, and more courts have popped up in the last few years. Whether you're a beginner or play competitively, there are places to join open play, take lessons, or play with friends.

Local tip: Similar to a beach badge, you need to buy a pickle ball badge in order to play at the public courts. The badge you buy varies by town.