Long Beach Island is the stretch of barrier island that runs parallel to Jersey's eastern border from Barnegat Bay to Little Egg Inlet. An 18-mile strip of land in the Atlantic Ocean, Long Beach Island has towns that are relatively quiet for all but the summer months, when thousands of visitors come to relax at the mostly quiet beaches along the strip.
At the northern tip of the island is Barnegat Light State Park, housing the 19th century lighthouse, Old Barney, one of the Jersey Shore's most famous landmarks. Standing tall at the edge of one of the most dangerous inlets in the country, the lighthouse guided many seafarers safely ashore for nearly 100 years.
Heading south down the island are Loveladies and Harvey Cedars, neighboring villages offering pretty beaches, fishing, swimming and outdoor concerts in the summer months. Next stop is Surf City and Ship Bottom, which offer more crowded beaches and good surf.
Beach Haven is a lovely area in the lower portion of Long Beach Island, and is the most popular of all towns on the island. Quaint book shops, bed and breakfasts and restaurants line the streets of the town, and Fantasy Island Amusement Park offers entertainment for all ages from thrill rides, live entertainment and a water park next door. Bay Village, in Beach Haven, is a collection of shops and restaurants designed to replicate an old fishing village.
Long Beach Island is accessible via Route 72, which is the only road onto the island. Long Beach Boulevard runs straight through the island from north to south.
