Another great family vacation on the books! This marks the sixth year my extended family has visited Long Beach Island and each year gets better. I am originally from New Jersey and know all about the amazing beaches. My great-grandmother lived in Point Pleasant and we would frequently experience the boardwalk when I was a child. Each year my grandparents would take all the grandkids to Wildwood. In high school and college, my friends and I would head to Belmar. When we moved to Philadelphia, I was introduced to Avalon and Stone Harbor {my favorite spots!}. And now, I’ve gotten to know Long Beach Island.
Now, there are many towns on Long Beach Island. I don’t know all of them personally, but each has their own style and feel. My family stays in Beach Haven. Here, you are close to the beach and still in walking distance and a close drive to restaurants and stores. For example, we did a drive one rainy morning to Loveladies and it was almost 30 minutes away. Just giving you a sense of location as my experiences have been in one particular part of the island.
Where to Eat in Long Beach Island
Striped Jumpsuit: Forever 21 | Sunglasses: Chloe | Watch and Bracelet: Cartier
Since we rent a house each year, which I highly recommend to accommodate large groups, we each take turns cooking at the house. Jeff and I discovered Pearl Street Market a few years back and it’s always our first stop when we arrive. This quaint spot has sandwiches, salads, a cafe for to-go items and a seafood market featuring everything you need for a lobster bake or shore dinner. Another great lunch spot or easy dinner is the Holiday Snack Bar. It has a very “where the locals go” feel and serves great burgers and pies. Bring a bottle of wine or some beer with you and pull up to a seat at the counter.
For dinner, the last few years we have been going to Tuckers Tavern. Originally, we ate at the Black Whale which is a very popular spot. For us, it just got too crowded. Tuckers has great food and we all love the fisherman vibe. As a group of 11 people with an early reservation, we have never had a problem getting seated on time.
Another great meal we’ve had is at Carmen’s. My parents go every year for their anniversary dinner – this year marked their 23rd year together! We went a few years back and had a great time as well. Like many places in Long Beach Island, this is also a BYOB. Since you’re in New Jersey, try Hampton Water Rosé . It’s the new wine from Bon Jovi’s son!
What to Do in Long Beach Island
Top: LuluLemon {no longer available in this color. Similar here } | Leggings: Fabletics {Similar here and here } | Sneakers: Adidas
On Marielle: Mini Boden Swimsuit
Top: Forever 21 | Short: For Love and Lemons {more lemon favorites in this post!} | Sunglasses: Chloe | Sandals: Steve Madden | Makeup Look: Beautycounter: Romantic Get the Look
- Beach. The best part! The kids have fun all day splashing in the waves, digging holes, collecting shells and making sand castles. Lifeguards show up around 10. If you have kids, getting a spot by the lifeguard stand early in the morning is key.
- Walk. Every day, Jeff and I would try to work out a little. The streets are pedestrian friendly so you’ll see lots of people walking, biking, running. Even long walks on the beach are a great way to start the day, or end the evening.
- Shop: There are many places to pick up Long Beach Island gear, but I like checking out Sur La Plage every year. They have a nice Lilly Pulitzer collection and fun pieces.
- Amusement park. If you have kids, this is a must. One night we all head to the rides at Fantasy Island. The kids always have a blast!
- Mini-golf. This was our first year trying this out. There are so many mini golf places all over the island.
Have you visited Long Beach Island or the Jersey shore? Let me know if you have any any questions!
