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Beach Haven, NJ

Beach Haven is a small seaside town located on Long Beach Island, New Jersey.  Beach Haven is a classic Jersey shore town located on Long Beach Island. It is known for its beautiful beaches and variety of family-friendly activities and attractions. The vibe in Beach Haven is generally relaxed and laid-back, with a focus on enjoying the beach and outdoor activities. During the summer months, the town is bustling with tourists and vacationers, while in the off-season, it is quieter and more peaceful.

 

Known as the "Queen City of the Island," This charming seaside town offers a wide variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Beach Haven has something to offer everyone. With its charming Victorian architecture, miles of white sandy beaches, and a wide range of activities it is a great travel destination.  There are several nearby attractions worth exploring, including the Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts & Sciences, the Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, the Atlantic City Boardwalk, the Ocean County Park, and the Historic Gardener's Basin.

From the scenic beach and bay, to a variety of water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy the outdoors. For those who love fishing, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a big one off the shore or on a chartered fishing boat. Beach Haven has clean, pristine, well-maintained beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, as well as its sheltered bays, making it a popular destination for boaters and beachgoers. All beaches are patrolled by Lifeguards.

 

Start your day by visiting Beach Haven beach, where you can relax on the sand and enjoy the beautiful ocean views. Take a dip in the water, build sandcastles, or catch some waves on a surfboard or boogie board. For a fun-filled day, visit Fantasy Island Amusement Park, where you'll find a variety of rides and games for children of all ages.  Take a stroll through the historic downtown area and admire the Victorian architecture and unique shops.  Another great place to visit is the Beach Haven Lighthouse Museum, where you can learn about the history of the lighthouse and take a tour to the top. The Tucker's Island Lighthouse is another great spot to visit, where you can enjoy great views of the beach and the island.  The Beach Haven Farmer's Market is also a great place to visit, where you can buy fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and more.

Shopping in Beach Haven is an enjoyable experience with a variety of boutiques, specialty shops, and souvenir stores. The Bay Village shopping district and the Washington Street Mall are popular destinations. Children will love visiting the Fantasy Island Amusement Park and the Thundering Surf Water Park which is adjacent to Bay Village.  The Bay Village also a miniature golf course and a petting zoo.

 

The dining scene in Beach Haven is thriving, with a range of options from casual beachside cafes to upscale restaurants serving fresh seafood and other delicious dishes. The Black Whale Bar & Fish House and the Chicken or the Egg are local favorites.   The Beach Haven Oysterfest, Chowderfest, and the LBI FLY International Kite Festival are popular events hosted in the town. Parking is available in designated areas and metered spots throughout the town.

Take a romantic bike ride on the scenic pathways of the island. For a glimpse of the Jersey Shore's maritime history, visit the Tuckerton Seaport, where you can learn about the area's boatbuilding traditions and see historic boats and ships.  Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the city's many seafood restaurants. Take a romantic boat ride or fishing trip from the Beach Haven Marina.  Beach Haven offers plenty of things to do and see, making it the perfect destination for your next Couples vacation.

Overall, Beach Haven is a great vacation spot for those looking for a traditional beach vacation with a variety of entertainment options and a family-friendly atmosphere. The town's beautiful beaches, lively boardwalk, and variety of activities make it a great destination for a summer vacation.

Beach Haven Website and Social Media sites

Recommended Beach Supplies for vacation ​

  • SPF Makeup and Lip Gloss:  When it comes to protecting your skin from the sun, it's important to look for makeup products that contain SPF to protect from the harmful effects of the sun:

  • Sunscreen: Protects your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause sunburn, skin damage, and skin cancer.  Read our Sunscreen Blog.

  • Paperbacks or Kindle Books:  Reading a book on vacation can help you relax by providing a mental escape from the stresses of everyday life

  • Sunglasses: Sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and reduce glare, improving visual comfort and eye health.

  • Beach chairs: Provide a comfortable place to sit and relax while enjoying the sun and sand. They often come with features such as adjustable backrests and armrests.

  • Beach Umbrella: these can provide shade and shelter from the sun and wind.

  • Beach Cabana:  A beach cabana provides a beachgoer with a private and shaded area for relaxation, protection from the sun, and storage for personal items. 

  • Beach Towels:  Provides comfort, convenience, protection, and hygiene while laying on the beach or swimming at the beach.

  • Womans Swimwear and Mens Swimsuits: Bring multiple swimsuits so that you have a dry suit to change into after swimming.

  • Water shoes: To protect your feet while walking on the beach or in the water.

  • Lightweight Clothing: Jersey shore can be hot in the summer, so pack lightweight and breathable clothing. For Woman.  For Men.

  • Sweatshirt or hoodie, even though it gets hot in the day it can be cool at night with the ocean breezes. For Woman For Men.

  • Hat or Visor: A hat or visor on the beach is necessary to protect your face and head from harmful UV rays, reduce glare, and keep you cool and comfortable in the sun.  For WomanFor Men.

  • Cash and credit cards: Many beach towns have boardwalks with shops and restaurants that do not accept credit cards.  Other establishments like arenas and stadiums will not take cash.

  • Cooler: To store drinks and snacks to keep you hydrated and fueled up throughout the day.

  • Insect repellent: To protect against mosquitoes and other bugs.

  • Beach games and activities: Beach Games such as frisbee, beach volleyball or cornhole, can be fun and entertaining.

Beach Haven's nearby attractions

  1. Atlantic City: The famous Atlantic City boardwalk and casinos are located just a short drive from Beach Haven.

  2. Cape May: This historic Victorian town is known for its beautiful architecture and is a popular tourist destination.

  3. Long Beach Island: Visit other areas of this 18-mile-long barrier island that offers a variety of beaches, restaurants, Light Houses and shops.

  4. Ocean City: This family-friendly town offers a boardwalk, amusement park, and many other attractions.

  5. Wildwood: Known for its vintage Doo-Wop architecture and a 2 mile boardwalk featuring amusement parks, waterparks and other attractions.

  6. Stone Harbor: This upscale town offers beautiful beaches, shopping, and dining.

  7. Cape May County Park & Zoo: This zoo features over 550 animals from around the world.

  8. Morey's Piers & Beachfront Water Parks: This amusement park offers a variety of rides and attractions, as well as water parks.

  9. Atlantic City Aquarium: This aquarium features a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.

  10. Absecon Lighthouse: One of the tallest lighthouses in the country and offers great views of the surrounding area.

  11. The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey's Coastal Research Center, where you can learn about the coastal ecosystems and marine life of the area.

  12. Tuckerton Seaport, where you can learn about the history of the Jersey Shore's maritime heritage.

Things to do in Beach Haven's Town, Beach, and Boardwalk

  1. Visit Fantasy Island Amusement Park for rides, games, and attractions for all ages.

  2. Take a stroll along the Beach Haven boardwalk, which offers beautiful views of the ocean and bay.

  3. Enjoy the beach at Beach Haven Beach, which is known for its clean water and wide stretch of sand.

  4. Visit the Barnegat Lighthouse, which offers a great view of the surrounding area and is open for climbing.

  5. Visit the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, which is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of marine mammals.

  6. Take a fishing trip on one of the many charter boats that operate out of Beach Haven.

  7. Visit the New Jersey Maritime Museum, which tells the history of the Jersey Shore and its maritime heritage.

  8. Visit the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to many species of birds and other wildlife.

  9. Go shopping on Bay Avenue, which is lined with a variety of shops and boutiques.

  10. Take a bike ride on the many bike paths that wind through Beach Haven and the surrounding area.

  11. Visit the Bay Village Historic District, which is home to many Victorian-era homes.

  12. Enjoy the nightlife on Long Beach Island, which offers a variety of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants.

Romantic Things to do in Beach Haven

  1. Take a romantic walk along the Beach Haven beach during sunset.

  2. Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the city's many seafood restaurants.

  3. Take a romantic boat ride or fishing trip from the Beach Haven Marina.

  4. Visit the Bay Village - a miniature golf course and a petting zoo

  5. Take a romantic bike ride on the scenic pathways of the island.

  6. Take a romantic stroll through the city's historic downtown, admiring Victorian architecture and unique shops.

  7. Visit the Beach Haven Lighthouse Museum - Learn about the history of the lighthouse and take a tour to the top.

  8. Visit the Beach Haven Farmer's Market - for fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and more.

  9. Visit the Tuckerton Seaport - for a glimpse of the Jersey Shore's maritime history.

  10. Visit the Tucker's Island Lighthouse - for great views of the beach and the island

  11. Visit the Beach Haven Water Tower - for panoramic views of the island

  12. Take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the city.

Things to do with Children in Beach Haven

  1. Visit Beach Haven Beach - enjoy the sand and surf, build sandcastles and splash in the water.

  2. Visit Fantasy Island Amusement Park - for a variety of rides and games for children of all ages.

  3. Visit the Bay Village - a miniature golf course and a petting zoo

  4. Visit the Surflight Theatre - for family-friendly shows and performances.

  5. Visit the Beach Haven Lighthouse Museum - Learn about the history of the lighthouse and take a tour to the top.

  6. Take a boat ride or fishing trip from the Beach Haven Marina.

  7. Visit the Beach Haven Farmer's Market - for fresh local produce, handmade crafts and more.

  8. Visit the Tuckerton Seaport - for a glimpse of the Jersey Shore's maritime history.

  9. Visit the Tucker's Island Lighthouse - for great views of the beach and the island

  10. Visit the Beach Haven Water Tower - for panoramic views of the island

  11. Visit the Beach Haven Marlin and Tuna Club Museum- learn about the island's history of big game fishing

  12. Take a bike ride on the scenic pathways of the island.

Favorite Restaurants and Eateries in and around Beach Haven

  1. Howard's Restaurant: This seafood restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and friendly service.

  2. The Black Whale Bar & Fish House: This seafood restaurant is known for its casual atmosphere and delicious seafood dishes.

  3. The Chicken or the Egg: This popular breakfast and lunch spot is known for its tasty comfort food and friendly service.

  4. The Gables: This elegant restaurant is known for its fine dining and extensive wine list.

  5. La Piazza Cucina: This Italian restaurant is known for its authentic cuisine and friendly service.

  6. Tucker's Tavern: This casual bar and grill is known for its burgers and wings.

  7. Beach Haven Fishery: This seafood restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and casual atmosphere.

  8. The Dutchman's Brauhaus: This German restaurant is known for its authentic cuisine and cozy atmosphere.

  9. Uncle Will's Pancake House: This breakfast spot is known for its pancakes and friendly service.

  10. The Red Store: This farm-to-table restaurant is known for its creative cuisine and beautiful setting.

  11. Daddy O restaurant and bar is a popular spot for drinks and bites in a casual and laid-back setting.

  12. Bisque Restaurant offers a menu featuring seafood and classic French dishes in an elegant and intimate atmosphere.

  13. The Restaurant at Engleside Inn serves delicious American cuisine in a charming, historic inn setting with a great view.

  14. Black Whale Bar & Fish House is a seafood restaurant with a casual atmosphere, fresh seafood, and great drinks.

  15. The Beach House Restaurant is a casual seafood spot with a great view and delicious seafood dishes.

  16. Carmen's serves Italian fare in a cozy, rustic atmosphere with a friendly staff.

  17. Buckalew's Restaurant & Tavern is a casual spot with classic American food and a friendly staff.

  18. Pearl Street Market is a great option for sandwiches, salads and more in a casual setting.

  19. Uncle Will's Pancake House is a popular spot for breakfast with a casual atmosphere and friendly staff.

  20. Boat House Restaurant is a seafood spot with a great view and a casual atmosphere.

  21. Ketch Bar & Restaurant is a casual spot with seafood and classic American fare.

  22. California Grill & Pizza serves delicious pizza and other classic American dishes in a casual setting.

  23. Slice of Heaven is a great spot for pizza with a casual atmosphere and friendly staff.

  24. Bistro 14 offers a menu featuring seafood and classic French dishes in an elegant and intimate atmosphere.

  25. Panzone's Pizza & Pasta serves delicious pizza and pasta in a casual setting.

  26. Roberto's Dolce Vita is an Italian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.

  27. Sea Shell Resort and Beach Club offers a menu of seafood and American fare in a casual atmosphere with a great view.

  28. Great American Lobster Roll Company serves delicious lobster rolls in a casual setting.

  29. Shore Good Donuts is a popular spot for donuts with a casual atmosphere and friendly staff.

  30. Station No. 117 is a casual spot with seafood and classic American fare.

  31. The Clam Bar is a casual seafood spot with a great view and delicious seafood dishes.

  32. Parker's Garage & Oyster Saloon is a casual spot with seafood and classic American fare.

  33. Quincy's Original Lobster Roll is a casual seafood spot with delicious lobster rolls.

  34. Bistro 14 offers a menu featuring seafood and classic French dishes in an elegant and intimate atmosphere.

  35. Iron Oak Smokehouse is a casual spot with delicious smoked meats and friendly staff.

  36. Bisque Restaurant offers a menu featuring seafood and classic French dishes in an elegant and intimate atmosphere.

  37. Anthony's Trattoria is an Italian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.

  38. Harvey Cedars Shellfish Co. is a seafood restaurant with a casual atmosphere, fresh seafood, and great drinks.

  39. The Gazebo Restaurant is a casual seafood spot with a great view and delicious seafood dishes.

Beach Haven History

  • Beach Haven is a borough located in Ocean County, New Jersey. The area has a rich history dating back to the 1800s when it was first settled by European settlers. The borough was named for its location on the Atlantic Ocean and its popularity as a destination for beach-goers.

  • In the late 1800s, Beach Haven began to attract visitors as a seaside resort. A number of large hotels were built, and the population of the town began to grow. The town's development was aided by the expansion of the railroad in the area, which made it more accessible for people to travel to the town. The town also became a popular spot for fishing, with many fishing clubs and boat clubs formed.

  • During the 1920s, Beach Haven experienced a decline in popularity as a vacation spot, as people began to prefer car trips and the rise of air-conditioning made it less necessary to escape the heat of the city. However, in recent years, the town has seen a resurgence in popularity as a vacation spot and has become a popular destination for families, beach-goers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Today, Beach Haven is a small town known for its beaches, parks, and outdoor activities. The town also has a strong sense of community, with events and festivals taking place throughout the year. The town is also known for its boardwalk, which is a popular spot for visitors and residents. The town also has a number of restaurants, shops, and other small businesses. Beach Haven is also known for its Victorian architecture, and it's a popular spot for boating and fishing. The town has a marina, several boat launch sites, and several sailing clubs.

Local Churches

  • Holy Innocents Church

Marine Beach Haven NJ Episcopal

  • Island Baptist Church

215 3rd St Beach Haven NJ Baptist

  • St Francis of Assisi Parish Brant Beach

4700 Long Beach Blvd Beach Haven NJ Roman Catholic

  • Beach Haven Kynett

127 Centre St Beach Haven NJ United Methodist

We hope this summary page helps you with your summer vacation, summer rentals, and search for a vacation home.  Whether you stay at a hotel, a condo, an apartment or a rental home the Jersey shore is for you! 

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