Week on Long Beach Island, NJ
What this foodstroll is
Our favorite things to do, see, and eat on Long Beach Island, New Jersey.
Why this foodstroll works
Long Beach Island is our favorite Summer destination north of the Outer Banks, and with it’s private beaches and absence of a boardwalk, it resembles the Outer Banks more than it does the Jersey Shore. It’s always been low key and lesser know than other vacation spots, which suits us just fine. Lots of people drive four hours from NYC to the Hamptons, but when we mention that LBI is half the distance, they look askance. And according to us and Anthony Bourdain, who vacationed there growing up, the food is better too. LBI’s local fishing industry is know for Blue Crabs, Scallops, Clams, Flounder, Halibut, Tuna, and Swordfish, which feature prominently at the Island’s restaurants. But before you visit, fall asleep, and wake up thinking you’re in North Carolina, remember you’re in New Jersey. That means the country’s best diners and Italian American food aren’t far away.
Strolling
Food Spots
All of our recommendations are family friendly, and most don’t require reservations, even in season, although at peak times there can be waits. LBI has many seasonal spots, most of which are great. For the sake of simplicity, and because we’re huge fans of the area year round, we’re writing primarily about year round operations. But some of our favorite eats are open summer only, like Polly’s Dock, Mustache Bill’s, and Harvey Cedars Shellfish Company.
If you are looking for a night out sans kiddies, and don’t mind planning ahead, our favorite upscale restaurants on the Island are Parker’s Garage, The Gables, Stefano’s, Raimondo’s, and Yellowfin. All five are open seasonally, BYOB, and require reservations far in advance.
Transportation
Unless you’re the type of person who can charter a helicopter, the only way to get to LBI is by car or bus, and there’s only one access point, the Causeway bridge. It’s a two hour drive from most points in NYC, 80 minutes from Philadelphia, and 45 from Atlantic City. In season you’ll be richly rewarded for not running with the herd. To avoid traffic arrive on Thursday evening or Friday morning, and departure is always easier on a Saturday evening or Monday morning.
The best bus service from NYC and Philadelphia is TransportAzumah. They run regular buses to various points on LBI from May to October, and tickets can be transferred to alternate dates if plans change.
Off season there are no buses, but there’s also no traffic, no stop lights (which they turn off), and the speed limit increases on the Island!