Island Heights NJ | Seaside Search

Island Heights, NJ

Island Heights is a charming, seaside community located on the Barnegat Peninsula in Ocean County, New Jersey. It is is a picturesque seaside town with a population of just over 2,000, Island Heights offers a charming, peaceful atmosphere and an abundance of natural beauty.

Island Heights, New Jersey was founded in 1887 by a group of Methodists from Philadelphia. They purchased the land and built a number of cottages and a hotel as a religious retreat and summer camp meeting location. The community was incorporated as a borough in 1887. A popular attraction in Island Heights is the Island Heights Cultural & Heritage Association. This organization offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year, including art shows, concerts, and historical tours. They also maintain several historic buildings, including the 1880's Victorian cottage known as the "Doctor's House" and the "Tucker House" which is a Victorian-era home that serves as a museum.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or a fun-filled adventure, Island Heights has something for everyone. If you're looking for a more relaxing vacation activity, Island Heights Beach is also the perfect spot. This wide, white-sand beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The beach is also home to a playground and a beachside restaurant.

One of the main attractions in Island Heights is the beach and Boardwalk. The town boasts a half-mile of pristine, white sandy beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Beachgoers can also take advantage of the town's beach volleyball court, playground, and picnic area. Another popular activity in Island Heights is boating. The town has a public boat launch and marina where visitors can launch their own boats or rent one to explore the nearby waters. The marina also offers boat slips for those who want to spend the night on their boat. Another popular attraction in Island Heights is the Island Heights Boardwalk. This half-mile long boardwalk offers beautiful views of Barnegat Bay and is a great spot for walking, jogging, and birdwatching. Along the boardwalk, you will also find a playground, a picnic area, and a boat ramp.

Island Heights is also home to a variety of other attractions and activities, including a marina, a miniature golf course, and a variety of parks and playgrounds. Island Heights also offers a variety of dining and shopping options. Visitors can find everything from casual seafood restaurants to fine dining, as well as a variety of shops selling souvenirs, clothing, and home goods.

For those interested in boating, the Island Heights Yacht Club is a must-see. The club offers a variety of boating activities and events, including sailing races and regattas. It also has a marina, a boat ramp, and a fueling station.

Island Heights is also known for its Victorian architecture, and visitors can take a self-guided walking tour of the town to see the many beautiful homes and buildings.

Overall, Island Heights is a perfect vacation destination for those looking for a peaceful, relaxing getaway with plenty of activities to enjoy. With its beautiful beaches, boating opportunities, and parks and nature preserves, Island Heights has something for everyone to enjoy.

Island Heights Website and Social Media sites

Official Website - Island Heights
Wikipedia - Island Heights NJ
Facebook - Island Heights official (none)
Instagram - Island Heights official (none)
Twitter - Island Heights official (none)

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 Woman. For 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.

Island Heights' nearby attractions

Island Heights Beach: A half-mile stretch of white sandy beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing and relaxing.
Island Heights Marina: A public boat launch and marina where visitors can launch their own boats or rent one to explore the nearby waters.
Island Heights Cultural and Heritage Association: Offers tours of the town's historic homes and buildings and hosts cultural events throughout the year.
Ocean County Park: Offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, picnicking, and a playground.
Toms River Seaport Society: A maritime museum that features exhibits on the history of Toms River and the surrounding area.
Island Heights Boardwalk: A boardwalk that runs along the beach, offering views of the ocean and a place to stroll.
Island Heights Yacht Club: A private club that offers boating activities and events for members.
Toms River Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse that offers tours and spectacular views of the surrounding area.
Huddy Park: Offers a playground, picnic area, and sports fields.
Pine Beach: A small beach town located just a few minutes from Island Heights that offers a variety of shops and restaurants.
Ocean County Library: A public library that offers a variety of programs and events for visitors of all ages.
Barnegat Bay: A large bay that offers a variety of water activities such as boating and fishing.
Double Trouble State Park: A state park that offers hiking and biking trails, fishing, and kayaking.
Island Beach State Park: A state park that offers swimming, fishing, and a variety of nature trails.
Seaside Heights: A popular beach town located a short drive from Island Heights that offers a boardwalk, amusement park, and a variety of shops and restaurants.

Things to do in Island Heights Town, Beach, and Boardwalk

Visit Island Heights Beach: One of the main attractions in Island Heights is the beach. The town boasts a half-mile of pristine, white sandy beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Beachgoers can also take advantage of the town's beach volleyball court, playground, and picnic area.
Explore the Island Heights Marina: Another popular activity in Island Heights is boating. The town has a public boat launch and marina where visitors can launch their own boats or rent one to explore the nearby waters. The marina also offers boat slips for those who want to spend the night on their boat.
Take a tour of the Island Heights Cultural and Heritage Association: The Island Heights Cultural and Heritage Association offers tours of the town's historic homes and buildings. This is a great way to learn about the town's history and culture, and the association also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including concerts and art shows.
Visit Ocean County Park: Ocean County Park is a popular destination for visitors. It offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, picnicking, and a playground. The park is a great place to spend a day with the family.
Explore the Toms River Seaport Society: The Toms River Seaport Society is a maritime museum that features exhibits on the history of Toms River and the surrounding area. This is a great place to visit for those interested in the area's maritime history and culture.
Walk along the Island Heights Boardwalk: The Island Heights Boardwalk is a popular destination for visitors. It runs along the beach, offering views of the ocean and a place to stroll. It's a great place to take a walk and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Join the Island Heights Yacht Club: The Island Heights Yacht Club is a private club that offers boating activities and events for members. This is a great place to visit for those interested in boating and sailing.
Visit the Toms River Lighthouse: The Toms River Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse that offers tours and spectacular views of the surrounding area. This is a great place to visit for those interested in history and architecture.
Enjoy Huddy Park: Huddy Park is a popular destination for visitors. It offers a playground, picnic area, and sports fields. It's a great place to spend a day with the family.
Take a trip to Pine Beach: Pine Beach is a small beach town located just a few minutes from Island Heights that offers a variety of shops and restaurants. It's a great place to visit for those looking for a change of scenery.
Visit the Ocean County Library: The Ocean County Library is a public library that offers a variety of programs and events for visitors of all ages. This is a great place to visit for those looking for a quiet place to read or learn something new.
Explore Barnegat Bay: Barnegat Bay is a large bay that offers a variety of water activities such as boating and fishing. This is a great place to visit for those interested in water sports.
Take a hike in Double Trouble State Park: Double Trouble State Park is a state park that offers hiking and biking trails, fishing, and kayaking. This is a great place to visit for those interested in outdoor activities.
Visit Island Beach State Park: Island Beach State Park is a state park that offers swimming, fishing, and a variety of nature trails. This is a great place to visit for those interested in nature and outdoor activities.
Take a day trip to Seaside Heights: Enjoy the vast boardwalk, Casino Pier rides and the Breakwater Beach Water Park.

Favorite Restaurants and Eateries in and around Island Heights

Capri Italian Restaurant and Pizza is an Italian restaurant that serves pizza and other traditional Italian dishes.
Playa Bowls is a casual restaurant that serves acai bowls, smoothies, and other healthy options.
A New Corner Deli & Market is a deli and market that offers a variety of sandwiches and other deli items, as well as grocery items.
Elizabeth Cormier is a restaurant that serves a variety of American and international dishes.
Pik A Pizza is a pizza restaurant that serves a variety of pizza toppings and sides.
Rivoli's Restaurant is a fine dining establishment that serves Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.
Villa Amalfi is an Italian restaurant that serves traditional Italian dishes and pizza.
Yesterday's Restaurant is a casual restaurant that serves a variety of American dishes.
Shady Rest Restaurant is a casual restaurant that serves American cuisine.
The Cove Waterfront Bar & Grill is a casual seafood restaurant that serves seafood, steak and other American dishes with a waterfront view.
Tuscan House Restaurant is an Italian restaurant that serves traditional Tuscan dishes.
Lamp Post Inn is a casual restaurant that serves American cuisine.
Tardi's Ristorante Italiano is an Italian restaurant that serves traditional Italian dishes and pizza.
Caffe Italia is a casual Italian restaurant that serves a variety of Italian dishes.
Bahama Breeze is a casual Caribbean-inspired restaurant that serves seafood, chicken, steak and tropical drinks.
Anchor Inn is a casual seafood restaurant that serves seafood, steaks and other American dishes.
Kokomo's Restaurant is a casual restaurant that serves a variety of American and international dishes.
Mia's Pizza 37 is a casual pizza restaurant that serves a variety of pizza toppings and sides.
The Office Restaurant & Lounge is a casual restaurant and bar that serves American cuisine and a variety of drinks.
Banji Japanese Cuisine is a Japanese restaurant that serves traditional Japanese dishes such as sushi, ramen, and tempura.
Nino's Italian Restaurant is an Italian restaurant that serves traditional Italian dishes and pizza.
Artisan's Restaurant & Brewery is a casual restaurant and brewery that serves American cuisine and a variety of beers brewed in house.
Playdrome Lanes is a bowling alley and casual restaurant that serves American cuisine.
China Town is a Chinese restaurant that serves a variety of traditional Chinese dishes.
Panera Bread is a casual restaurant that serves sandwiches, soups, and salads.
Jersey Shore Diner is a casual restaurant that serves a variety of American dishes, especially for breakfast.
Ob-Co's Donuts is a donut shop that serves a variety of donuts, pastries, and coffee.
Golden Taste Chinese Food is a Chinese restaurant that serves a variety of traditional Chinese dishes.
Pies On Nine is a pizza restaurant that serves a variety of pizza toppings and sides.
Mamma Lucia's Pizza & Grill is a casual Italian restaurant that serves pizza and other traditional Italian dishes, as well as some grilled items.

Romantic Things to do in Island Heights

Take a sunset boat ride on the Toms River, enjoying the views and each other's company.
Have a picnic at the Island Heights boardwalk while watching the waves and seagulls.
Take a stroll through the beautiful and historic Island Heights Victorian neighborhoods.
Visit the Island Heights Cultural and Heritage Association and learn more about the history of the town together.
Enjoy a romantic dinner at a waterfront restaurant with a view of the Toms River.
Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Island Heights.
Go to the Island Heights Yacht Club and watch the boats on the Toms River.
Visit the Island Heights Marina and take a walk on the dock.
Have a romantic sunset beach walk and take in the ocean views.
Visit the Island Heights First Baptist Church and admire its beautiful architecture.
Take a romantic bike ride through the town and along the Toms River.
Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the Toms River together.

Things to do with Children in Island Heights

Visit the Seaside Heights Amusement Pier and go on many thrill rides gear for all ages
Island Heights Public Library and participate in the summer reading program or other children's events.
Take a trip to the Island Heights Beach and play in the sand and surf.
Visit the Island Heights Playground and enjoy the playground equipment and open space.
Take a boat ride on the Toms River and look for dolphins and other marine life.
Go fishing from the Island Heights fishing pier or charter a fishing boat.
Visit the Island Heights Historical Museum and learn about the history of the town.
Take a walk through the Island Heights Arboretum and admire the flowers and plants.
Visit the Island Heights Fire Department and learn about fire safety and see the fire trucks.
Take a bike ride through the town and along the Toms River.
Visit the Island Heights Cultural and Heritage Association and participate in their Children's activities and events.
Visit the Island Heights Yacht Club and watch the boats on the Toms River.
Visit the Island Heights Marina and take a walk on the dock and see the boats.

History of Island Heights

Island Heights is a borough located in Ocean County, New Jersey. The area has a rich history dating back to the 1800s. The Lenape Native Americans were the first inhabitants of the area, and the borough was named after the fact that it is located on a small island on the Toms River.
In the late 1800s, Island Heights 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.
In 1887, a group of Methodists purchased a large tract of land in Island Heights, and they established a camp meeting ground and built several cottages. This camp meeting ground became a popular destination for Methodists and other Christian denominations, and it attracted thousands of visitors every summer. The camp meeting ground also became a center of community life, with many social and cultural activities taking place there.
During the 1920s, Island Heights 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, Island Heights is a small town known for its Victorian architecture, beaches, parks, and outdoor activities. The town also has a strong sense of community, with events and festivals taking place throughout the year. The camp meeting ground is still active and is a popular spot for summer camps, retreats, and other religious events.

Local Churches

New Life Christian Church

125 Bay Ave Highlands NJ Other Christian

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish

103 Center Ave Atlantic Hlds NJ Roman Catholic

New Church Of Red Bank

478 Sagamore Ave Teaneck NJ Non-Denominational

Saint Andrew The Apostle Church

137 Bay Ave Highlands NJ Non-Denominational

Highland Sea Bright United Methodist Church

181 Bay Ave Highlands NJ Methodist

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