As part of my continuing “Boroughs to Burbs…to the Beach” series, today I will be covering Beach Haven, Long Beach Island.

First, a word about LBI.  It comprises several different communities, each with its own feeling and list of things to do and places to see. Each has its own unique vibe. Most of my LBI time is usually spent in and around Beach Haven, so here I will focus on Beach Haven and the adjacent communities.

The words “Jersey Shore” might conjure up some less than savory images of orange colored guidos fist-pumping til the break of dawn.  Long Beach Island is pretty much the antithesis of that.  Though LBI certainly has its opportunities to party (Joe Pop’s, Nardi’s, Daddy O’s), in general if you’re looking to party hard-core, stick to Seaside or Belmar.  Laid back, family-friendly, and peaceful are all terms that aptly describe Long Beach Island.

Day One

Driving on to the island is always fun, crossing over the Manahawkin Bay Bridge overlooking the bay, you truly feel like you are crossing over to a simpler place and time.  You can practically feel the tensions of home melting away as you drive over the bridge and head onto the island, and the salt air hits you.  (Note:  If at all possible, do not drive down on a Saturday morning.  You will encounter the usual heavy shore traffic on the GSP, and traffic to get on to Route 72 is usually backed up since Saturday is “turnover day” for weekly renters).

We are very fortunate to have my in-laws’ beach house at our disposal whenever we make the trip down to LBI.  For those who wish to rent a house for the week (or even longer, lucky you!), you can contact local realtors such as Coldwell Banker Riviera.  For those who prefer to go ho-tel, mo-tel, you can choose from offerings available in the general area as well.

In Beach Haven Park, our beach house is conveniently close to the brand-new and expanded Acme for grocery shopping (they also have an expanded beach section for those kites and boogie boards you forgot to pack).  Also (far too) close is the incomparable Skipper Dipper, with absolutely scrumptious home-made ice cream, the reason why most evenings the line wraps down the stairs and around the building.

Once in, we always try to hit Pinky’s as soon as possible. It’s a very casual surf style restaurant, with outdoor picnic tables for seating (you can also get take out).  You really can’t go wrong with any dish, though my personal favorite is the blackened salmon sandwich with sweet potato fries and corn on the cob. Yumm…..Once you’ve stuffed yourself at Pinky’s, walk down a block to Acme Beach and Bike to rent bikes for the afternoon, and work that lunch off! LBI is completely flat, and very bike friendly.  It’s a great way to explore the sights.

If you are down with the kiddies (or are a kid at heart), a visit to Fantasy Island is in order. Keep in mind that the rides start at 6pm, so probably only an option for older kiddies (or night owls).  There are also great restaurants and stores for browsing and shopping in Bay Village, such as Country Kettle Chowda and Bistro 14.  Also, at some point on the island, a visit to Chicken or the Egg (or, the Chegg, as it is affectionately known) is an absolute must.  Their dishes are delicious, portion sizes biblical.  The wait for a table is also impressive, so make sure to either go well in advance or even off-peak hours.

Day Two

Take a stroll to the beach and watch the sunrise! Or, sleep in and head for breakfast at either SandBox Café or at Uncle Will’s Pancake House (hey, it’s your vacation!)  Then, hit the beach to sleep off your carb coma.

LBI is currently undergoing a massive beach replenishment project.  You can laze on the beach and watch others hard at work, the giant dredges scooping up sand offshore and pumping the sand onto the beach to build it out.  It’s really a sight to behold.  Several beaches have enormous sand dunes (for example, near 92^nd street), the likes of which a certain 4 year old boy entertained himself for half the morning running up, and then rolling back down…

If there’s any way you can possibly eat lunch after your bacchanalian breakfast, head to the Holiday Snack Bar.  Serving breakfast and lunch in the same adorable location for over 65 years, it is truly an LBI classic.  Their burgers, fries, and hot dogs are outstanding, and their homemade desserts mouth-watering.

If, like us, you have little ones, it’s always a good idea to try and get out some of that extra energy.  LBI has several excellent playgrounds, including Bayview Park in Brant Beach (68^th street). An added bonus is that it’s next to a small beach on the bay. So mom can tan while dad entertains the kiddies on the playground (at least that’s how it always plays out in my head. Hey, a girl can dream…). Further afield, Sunset Park in Harvey Cedars offers a pirate ship and rocket slide for the kiddies’ amusement and several covered gazebos to take cover under when it becomes too sunny and hot.

Last but certainly not least, head for a late dinner at The Ketch.  The atmosphere is lively and bustling, with a huge bar and lounge area, and lots of tables on the deck overlooking the bay.  You can view an amazing sunset while you eat the catch of the day.  For a more elegant and BYOB meal, head next door to the Boathouse, and enjoy that same gorgeous sunset over the bay.  And relax and soak up those last rays before you have to head back to reality tomorrow ?

Have you been to Beach Haven, LBI recently? What did you think?  Add a comment and let us know!