Travel Guide Long Beach Island

A barrier island 28 km long and only 800 metres wide, on which six cities lie, beach towns that are among the prettiest in Jersey Shore. The most populous is Long Beach Township, with a population of 20,000 inhabitants four times higher in the summer, while the other cities do not exceed 1,370 inhabitants in the low season. Most of the island's east coast consists of a long sandy beach bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, making it one of the most popular summer enclaves in and around New Jersey. Hit hard by Hurricane Sandy in October 2012, the island was partially flooded and suffered extensive damage. The Manahawkin Bay Bridge, the only bridge leading to it, was closed for 13 days. Without gas and electricity for weeks, life on the island only resumed two months later with the reopening of shops and the return of residents. Not to be missed: Beach Haven, the most festive city with many bars and restaurants. Families will probably prefer Ship Bottom, where the current is less strong and the playgrounds are numerous. The most charming beach is certainly Barnegat Light, with its picturesque lighthouse. Finally, with its waves that regularly exceed 2 metres in height, the island is ideal for surfers.