Located off the southern coast of New Jersey, Long Beach Island is a barrier island that boasts 18 miles of sandy beaches. It is known for its family-friendly environment, numerous outdoor activities, and iconic structures.
Thinking about where to live on Long Beach Island? Check out the island’s unique towns below.
Long Beach Township
Spanning around 22 square miles, Long Beach Township makes up the largest portion of the island. A laid-back atmosphere, luxurious waterfront properties, and its proximity to other Long Beach Island towns are what makes this township one of the most desirable spots in which to live.
The township is made up of several communities:
- Holgate – A hidden gem, Holgate is the southernmost town on Long Beach Island. A wilderness area run by the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge is located here.
- High Bar Harbor – This residential community has an extensive lagoon system and incredible outdoor adventures, including jet-skiing and sailing. Yacht and boat owners can dock their boats at the exclusive High Bar Harbor Yacht Club.
- North Beach – If you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful community in Long Beach Township, then North Beach is perfect for you. The community offers a variety of relaxing recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and sailing.
- Brant Beach – This community’s prime location and long list of outdoor activities is perfect for families. It’s the place to be for those who want to take advantage of all that a lifestyle by the beach can offer.
- Loveladies – Found at the northern portion of Long Beach Island, Loveladies is an affluent community that offers privacy, exclusivity, and upscale waterfront properties for sale. The Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts and Sciences can be found here as well.
Ship Bottom
One of the best places to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand is right here in Ship Bottom. Named after an 1817 shipwreck, this borough is one of the oldest towns on Long Beach Island. Ship Bottom can be found right at the foot of the bridge connecting the island to the mainland, hence its nickname, the “Gateway to Long Beach Island.”
There’s always something to do in Ship Bottom, whether it’s attending a concert at the Ship Bottom Boat Ramp or playing a quick round or two of mini golf with the family. Spend the day crabbing and fishing at the borough’s Waterfront Park & Crabbing and Fishing Pier. Ship Bottom is also home to a delightful colony of Purple Martins, which can be seen at the Sunset Point community park.
Barnegat Light
Searching for a quieter and more peaceful community? Barnegat Light may be the perfect Long Beach Island town for you. Barnegat Light, which is located on the northern tip of the island, is a popular destination among tourists and visitors. Enjoy the wide beaches, scenic hiking trails, and fun fishing and crabbing activities.
Popular spots are Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, the Barnegat Light Museum, and the historic Viking Village. The Barnegat Lighthouse State Park is known for its maritime forest, fishing and birding sites, and the iconic “Old Barney,” as the Barnegat Lighthouse is fondly called.
Beach Haven
With its pristine beaches, historical architecture, and amazing arts venues,
Beach Haven is a delight to explore. Known as the “Queen City,” Beach Haven boasts of vibrant sunsets, stunning beaches, and sunshine all year round.
The award-winning Surflight Theater, which was established in 1950, has a variety of Broadway-style productions to entertain children, teens, and adults alike. Other notable spots in Beach Haven are the Long Beach Island Historical Museum, the Maritime Museum, and Veteran’s Memorial Park.
Surf City
A picturesque town sandwiched between Beach Haven and Ship Bottom, the quarter-mile-wide Surf City has something for everyone. Looking for family-friendly beaches in Surf City? The Bay Beach Area is a fantastic place for toddlers and kids. Searching for shopping or dining establishments? You’ll find plenty along Long Beach Boulevard. Art galleries, coffee shops, ice cream parlors, spas, and mini golf courses are aplenty as well.
Harvey Cedars
Harvey Cedars is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Breathtaking sunset views, outdoor recreational activities, and a quiet atmosphere are just a few of the things that you can expect from this primarily residential town.
Watch a concert in Sunset Park, check out the different restaurants along Long Beach Boulevard, or go fishing for bass in one of the town’s fishing spots. There’s no shortage of things to do in Long Beach Island’s Harvey Cedars. The town is also home to the Harvey Cedars Bible Conference, a well-known Christian retreat and conference center.
For more information about the towns and communities on Long Beach Island, get in touch with Craig and Sharon Stefanoni of Berkshire Hathaway Zack Shore Realtors. Feel free to send them a message here. You can also reach the team at 609.432.1104 and CStefanoni(at)ZackShore(dotted)com.