The Lure Of LBI

Long Beach Island offers the visitor a unique location that is the perfect place to relax.  Truly an island, it is only connected to the mainland with 1 bridge.  It is the ultimate beach destination. There is no boardwalk or tram car, no huge arcades or people calling out for you to play a game for a prize.  LBI is all about the beach.  People come for the clean beaches and family friendly atmosphere.  No matter who you are or what your profession is, once you hit the causeway bridge, you feel your troubles drifting away.  You can smell the fresh, salty air and feel the warm breezes of summer as you enter the island.  You know that peace and relaxation is only minutes away no matter which part of the island you are headed to.  Will you go up near the lighthouse in Barnegat Light and watch the boats coming and going in the inlet?  Or will you head to a quiet beach to spread out a blanket and read a summer thriller?  Will you bring the little ones to the bayside with it's safe, shallow beach and nearby bathrooms or will you head to Beach Haven with them to the Thundering Surf water park or the charming amusement park, Fantasy Island?  Maybe you just want to take a solo walk on one of the quieter beaches and clear your head.  To look out over the vast ocean and realize that there is so much to be thankful for.  Whatever you choose and whoever you come with just know that once you've been here you will be back.  You will bring old friends and make new ones.  LBI is truly a special, one of a kind place.


 LBI is also a conveniently located vacation destination.  The island is under an hour and a half from Philly and a little over an a hour and a half from New York City.  All parking here is free.  Come for the day, stay for a week or make it your full time vacation destination.  There really is nowhere else like Long Beach Island!

               

Buckalews Restaurant & Tavern - Open Year Round on LBI

Another great place to stop by during these frigid winter months is Buckalews in Beach Haven. Belly up to the bar and snack on a steaming hot bar pie, or a hearty Hawkeye Burger featuring pecanwood smoked bacon, crumbled blue cheese, sauteed onions and Chipotle mayo. If you are in the mood for a hot soup then you must try the She Crab soup.  Hot, tasty and delicious, you will come back here just for this soup!  They also have a nice variety of draft beers and a fairly large selection of wines to choose from.

The menu offers something for everyone.  From hot, hearty main dishes to gluten free and vegetarian and they also serve fresh sushi.  This location has been serving the locals since it was built in 1874.  It started out as a hotel and was transformed into a restaurant over time.  Check out Buckalews website, it is a really great story on the history of the property.

In addition to being one of the few restaurants open year round, Buckalews also hosts events and private parties.  The great food, warm atmosphere, live entertainment and great location make this place a favorite not just for the locals but for anyone who happens to stop by.

Check out their website for the hours, specials, events, entertainment and check out what they offer for Happy Hour while you're at it.

Buckalews Restaurant & Tavern
101 N Bay Ave, Beach Haven, NJ 08008
(609) 492-1065
www.buckalews.com

The Sandcastle Luxury Bayfront Bed & Breakfast...Book it Now!! LBI's secret hideaway awaits.

The Sand Castle Bed and Breakfast offers the convenience of a Jersey Shore hotel with the unique atmosphere and personalized accommodations of a small B&B inn.  Discover why The Sand Castle is an excellent lodging choice for your LBI vacation! The Parlor features a grand piano and a spectacular solid cherry library displaying a delightful collection of Santa Claus memorabilia from around the world.

The generous seating and quiet relaxing atmosphere make the Parlor a favorite area for guests to enjoy table games, reading, relaxing and socializing. Wireless internet access is available here. The spacious, formal dining room with its unique, ten-foot ceiling and rich, hardwood flooring, is the perfect setting for elegant dining. The solid cherry dining table comfortably seats ten people. Each morning you can enjoy a sumptuous breakfast fit for a king in the magnificent dining room. For guests who prefer a more casual atmosphere for dining or socializing, the Long Beach Island lodging offers a climate-controlled sunroom that seats an additional twelve people. This cheerful room offers wall-to-wall windows that overlook the outside swimming pool area and lighthouse. A two level rooftop deck offers a private area for sunbathing and an elevated deck, with panoramic views of the island. Enjoy the parade of boats cruising along the bay, as well as a great view of the lighthouse. The rooftop deck offers the perfect setting to experience LBI's beautiful evening sunsets. On a clear night, the spectacular canopy of stars and constellations will mesmerize you. The pool area is a favorite attraction in the summer season. Take a dip in our sparkling clean swimming pool which is heated from Memorial Day throughout High Season. If you prefer, sit and relax in the soothing, heated, Jacuzzi. Enjoy the poolside cabana and covered gas barbecue area. The large pool deck offers patio sets and lounge chairs for sunbathing, socializing or just relaxing. The outdoor changing room, bathroom and shower are there for guests' convenience. Book your vacation days now so you can be ready for the warm, sunny days of summer. The Sand Castle Bed and Breakfast  P.O. Box 607, 710 Bayview Avenue, Barnegat Light, New Jersey (NJ) 08006 E-Mail: info@sandcastlelbi.com |  Web Site:  www.sandcastlelbi.comTelephone: 609-494-6555

What Is So Great About LBI?

LBI is great because on a cold January morning at 7:15 in the morning, you can grab a breakfast sandwich and a steaming hot cup of coffee at the Inlet Cafe and watch the boats cruise by in the Barnegat Light Inlet.  You can walk up near the lighthouse and get some awesome pictures and if you wait a little later in the morning, you can legally enter the park and the lighthouse itself!  The peace and quiet of the island during the off-season is good for the soul.  Walk the now empty beaches and you have uninterrupted views for miles.  The seagulls are still here as is the occasional fisherman surf-fishing off the beach.  It is a great time to really appreciate the stillness and beauty of the Jersey Shore.

Unlike many other beaches on the northeast coast, LBI is mainly a summer destination. There are some year round residents and some businesses stay open but the lack of visitors on the off season really brings that feeling of serenity as you explore this beautiful island.  And there are just enough businesses open this time of year for you to enjoy a delicious meal during your travels.

Even during the busy summer season LBI is like no other shore vacation area. No matter where you are on the island, you can walk to the beach or the bay. The people who come here to vacation don't come for the boardwalk, or to party like spring breakers.  The people who own homes here and rent in the summer want to come here for the beach.  Yes, there are great restaurants and bars, clothing and art stores, amusements and ice cream.  But the only reason LBI brings people back year after year is the cool, clean sand and the crashing waves, the stunning sunrises, searching for seashells and the camaraderie of all those nearby who are collectively there enjoying the same experience.     

No matter the season, LBI is beautiful.  It's a dressed down, come hang out kind of place that always has the perfect atmosphere.



If you head up to the lighthouse, stop at The Inlet Cafe

The Inlet Cafe
33 W 4th St
Barnegat Light

609-494-3049

Winter Hours
Monday-Saturday 6-4
Sunday 6-1

In Season Hours

All Week 6-6                      

Looking For Something To Do? Check Out the Laurita Winery and the Ice Sculpture Festival!

January 23rd & 24th 

Children 4-7 $5 and General Admission is $10 for each day

Finally, a truly unique winter activity for the whole family!

Admission includes:

• Parking
• Shuttle Service to and from the Event!
• Souvenir Laurita Wine Glass!
• Entrance to Event featuring ice sculptures, classic winter activities, a variety of themed food and beverage options, vineyard tours, 3 or 4 Food Trucks (to be announced)!
• Kids activities including our huge playground, ice luge, snowmobiles (ages 7 and under)
• Space to accommodate thousands of guests without being crowded.
• Some of the most scenic views in New Jersey!

FIREWORKS Saturday Night @ 7PM!!!

Don’t miss this unique, annual event!! Watch our estate winery transform into a vineyard ski lodge for this special weekend!!

Register and PRE-ORDER Today!!

The Food Trucks!!

• Five Sisters Catering

• Empanada Guy

• Zinna’s Bistro

• The Original SoupMan NJ

• House of Cupcakes

Check out The Laurita Winery calendar for events year round. There web address is http://lauritawinery.com/ 

The Laurita Winery

GPS 85 Archertown Rd
(Mailing Address: 35 Archertown Rd)
New Egypt, NJ 08533

Toll Free: 1.800.LAURITA
Local: 609.752.0200
Fax: 609.752.0226

The Laurita Winery is about 30-40 minutes from LBI.  When you are looking for something to do, see what they have to offer.  And maybe bring home a bottle of wine or 3!

Indoor Swimming On LBI!

Looking for another great indoor activity on Long Beach Island?  Come to the St. Francis Aquatic Center behind St Francis Church located at 4700 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach Township.  They have Open Swim hours daily and it only costs $10 Per Person or buy a book of 5 passes for $45 or 10 Passes: $80  There are also yearly passes both with and without the use of the community center.  There is also an outdoor pool overlooking the bay in the summer.  Check out the schedule for water aerobic classes, swim lesson and lifeguard certification classes with lessons for all ages.

While you are there, check out St Francis' Community Center.  They offer many fun activities as well as volunteer opportunities.  Copy and paste this link to see what St Francis offers on a cold, snowy or rainy day http://stfranciscenterlbi.org/



St. Francis Community Center4700 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach Twp., NJ 08008. (609) 494-8861

Rainy Day Road Trip!

Looking for something to do on those rainy days?  Head up north to the Silverball Museum in Asbury Park on the Boardwalk.  Set up like an old school boardwalk arcade, this place will take you back to when arcade games took a bit of skill and the only thing you 'won' was a possible free game or the coveted high score. There are many old time games beside pinball, there is Galaga, PacMan and Asteroids and so many that we used to find on the boardwalk growing up where we would spend our quarters trying to rack up the points and beat the highest score.  I miss those days of just playing for fun and not for tickets where you ultimately end up with some lame item that you probably paid for 20 times over on games requiring little to no skill or fun involved.

Take a step back in time and enjoy these fantastic games!  Bring your kids, show them what life was like before the computer and cell phone.  If you are like me, you will feel nostalgic as you recognize the games of old just waiting for you to beat your last high score.

You don't even need to bring quarters, you can pay a flat rate depending upon how long you plan on staying.  Right now it is $7.50 for 1/2 Hour $10 for a full hour and $25 for All Day Play!  There are also some specials:

REENTRY PASS SPECIALS
AFTERNOON: Play from Opening – 5:00pm for $15
NIGHT: Play from 5:00 PM – Closing for $15
ALL DAY: Play from Opening to Closing for $25

There may also be coupons offered at times.   Here is their website with all the info you need http://silverballmuseum.com/ This place is the real deal!

1000 OCEAN AVE -  new location
Asbury Park, NJ 07712
732 774 4994

The Old Causeway-Great Local Restaurant and Bar

The Old Causeway Steak & Oyster House is located adjacent to Mud City on the mainland side of the bridge.  Walking in you get the feel of a warm, friendly local neighborhood tavern.  With it's open, high ceilings and rich wood walls, floors and tables and bar... it seems as if this great place has been here forever.  In fact, the locals and shore visitors keep it bustling on any given day. I've been there quite a few times, so far everything has been excellent including the service both at the table and the bar.  They have an awesome Happy Hour every day from 3-6 featuring 50 cent Wings, 75 cent Clams and $1.00 Oysters from their super fresh raw bar.  Also $2.50 Yuengling and Coors Light.

As for their menu, it is so good that I've made it my goal to try every single item on there.  From the freshest shellfish to wood fired fresh Angus steaks cooked over an open flame grill, I am excited to work my way through each tasty item.  They feature unique preparations that are not the usual suspects, from Mexicali Mussels served with chorizo, lime, Chipotle, cilantro, butter & cream sauce with bread to soak up that yummy sauce to a side of creamed spinach in a parmesan bechamel sauce and a unique preparation of shrimp with grits-jumbo shrimp, bacon, tomato, cheddar, jalapeno, grits served with griddle toast and fried green tomatoes.  I am trying that last one next.  They also feature award winning burgers, tasty sandwiches and salads.  There is something for everyone.

Here is a link to their website http://oldcauseway.com/ not only do they have a fantastic menu, they also feature live music on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Check the website for current hours, specials and the full menu of deliciousness.  I may see you there as I eat my way through this awesome menu!

1201 E Bay Ave Manahawkin
New Jersey 08050
Open daily at 11:30 AM
Happy Hour 3 PM to 6 PM
609-488-1327


Here is what I've tried so far:

Oysters & clams from the raw bar- So fresh and delicious
Wings-smoky barbecue taste, very, very good and not like any others that I have had
Yellowfin Tuna Poke - Sparkling fresh, could eat this every day
Fried calamari-with the crispy jalapenos and squeezed fresh lemon then dipped in chimichurri mayo...yes please!
Pork Carnita Quesadilla-tasty pork bits topped with chipotle cream and fresh salsa-yum!
Oyster Po Boy-Had a bite of my husband's sandwich.  Crisp on the outside and fresh as the ocean on the inside.  Next time (after I eat everything else) I want my own!
Seafood Pot-mussels, clams, fish, big crab leg with smoky tomato broth and again, a buttery toast to soak up that delicious broth.

I will update here every time I try something new.

Ok,  after writing this blog post I dragged my husband out last night so I could try the Shrimp & Grits
It was creamy and delicious with fresh, perfectly cooked shrimp scattered about soft squares of moist and flavorful grits with a garlicy buttery toast to soak up the sauce.  My only complaint is my fried green tomato wasn't green enough!
OC Burger was perfectly cooked and very flavorful with the smoky taste of the grill and the salty freshness of the fried oysters.  Very juicy and great bun.

Long Beach Island weather

Here is a great link to find out the current weather on Long Beach Island http://www.lbiweather.com/ Check it out!

Dogs On The Beach On LBI

Enjoy running and playing with your pup on the quiet beaches on LBI off season.  There is nothing better than seeing a friendly dog racing up the beach with a frisbee or ball with his human partner chasing him!  Just make sure to call the local township on dog rules and please clean up after your pet before you leave.


Long Beach Island General Dog Rule 
Dogs are not allowed on LBI beaches from May 1 until October 1.  Enjoy running and playing on the beach during the off season!

Dogs On Barnegat Light Beaches
Barnegat Light allows dogs on their beaches from Oct. 1 - thru April 15. All dogs on Barnegat Light beaches must be on a leash.
For Specific Dog Rules/Regulations On LBI Beaches Call:
* Barnegat Light, NJ  609-494-9196

* Beach Haven, NJ  609-492-0111

* Harvey Cedars, NJ  609-494-2843

* Long Beach Township, NJ  609-361-1000

Sand Dunes On LBI

While exploring the beautiful beaches of Long Beach Island, keep in mind that the best defense against beach erosion and flooding from the ocean is the combination of gently sloping beaches and well established sand dunes. 

These hills of sand act as a natural protection when well covered with dune grass. Dune grass roots sometimes go down 15 to 20 feet into the sand to hold the dune in position and to prevent erosion from both the wind and the ocean, but the dune grass is very vulnerable and can not tolerate being stepped on or disturbed by human traffic.  Stepping on the dune grass could kill it so please do not enter the areas that are marked.  

Winter Has Finally Arrived At The Jersey Shore!

Now is the perfect time to take a drive on Long Beach Island.  Most of the traffic lights are now blinking and there is very little traffic to get in the way of your cold winter adventure.  The beaches are clean, the water is clear and there are still some shops and restaurants open for a good hearty meal and some hot chocolate or a cocktail.

Try Scojo's in Surf City for breakfast, they have some fantastic omelets!  For lunch check out Kubels, in Barnegat Light, Kubels Too in Long Beach Township or Buckalew's in Beach Haven for a hearty lunch.  You can get some really good pictures at the beach, the lighthouse and in the picturesque Viking Village.  Enjoy a walk on the beach with your pup as they are only allowed on most beaches during the off season.  Try some surf fishing at any one of the beaches but make sure to check with the township to see if you need a license to surf fish.

If you happen to fall in love while you are in LBI, now is the best time to shop for a home.  You can find the perfect home and be in before the summer of 2016!