Vacation in Long Beach Island, N.J.

With miles of quiet beaches, Long Beach Island, N.J. provides the opportunity to view sunrises from the beach on the ocean side of the island and sunsets on the bay side. With a total of 36 miles of beachfront property, LBI provides a tranquil getaway for vacationers each year. Rent a bike and ride up and down the sidewalks where the small storefronts sit at the southern end of the island, or ride to Barnegat Lighthouse State Park and walk up the 217 steps to the top of the lighthouse nicknamed "Old Barney" for a vast view of the northern tip of the island.

The serenity of Long Beach Island generally attracts a more family-oriented group of people seeking a place to enjoy the beach and the activities it provides, such as fishing, surfing, jet skiing, boating, swimming and seashell collecting. Visitors also play mini-golf at several locations. There is no boardwalk, but Fantasy Island Park offers a small variety of rides, arcade games, and a water park. The island offers a few bars that are only open during the summer season. Plenty of restaurants are open year round and offer a variety of cuisine, such as German, Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Japanese, American and of course, fresh seafood is abundant. There are no fast food restaurants and only a few small food markets, so anyone on a budget should pick up their groceries in Manahawkin on the way into the island.

Long Beach Island is a popular vacation spot, so be sure to book your vacation early. The island has several hotels and motels, but the majority of visitors rent one of the many quaint vacation homes available. Contact one of the island real estate agencies early in the year to rent a home for the summer.