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Ship Bottom, NJ

Welcome to Ship Bottom, New Jersey! Located on Long Beach Island, our small seaside town offers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.  Many of thier home and condo rentals feature amenities like private pools, hot tubs, and even ocean views, so you can relax in style.  So come experience the best of the Jersey Shore in Ship Bottom, a great romantic or family vacation destination. The town offers a wide range of activities for families, couples, and children. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, surfing, and other water activities in the beautiful ocean.

Start your vacation off right with a visit to Ship Bottoms' beautiful beaches. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, swim in the ocean, or surf the waves, Ship Bottom's beaches have something for everyone. And with lifeguards on duty throughout the summer, you can enjoy the water with peace of mind.

When you're ready for a break from the sand, take a stroll down our charming main street, where you'll find a variety of shops and restaurants and shopping. For those who love shopping, Ship Bottom has plenty of local boutiques and shops selling souvenirs, beachwear, and other items. There are also plenty of dining options, including local seafood restaurants and cafes serving delicious food and drinks. Children can enjoy mini-golf, ice cream shops, and arcade games.From beachy souvenir shops to high-end fashion boutiques, there's something for every taste and budget. And with a wide range of dining options, from casual seafood shacks to fine-dining restaurants, you're sure to find something to satisfy your appetite.

 

​For couples, there are plenty of romantic activities to enjoy, including sunset walks on the beach, candlelit dinners, and stargazing. The town has a relaxed and laid-back vibe, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

For Children and adults who want some adventure Ship Bottom is the town next to Beach Havan so you can also enjoy the Fantasy Island Amusement park and the Bay Village offers a miniature golf course and a petting zoo. 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. 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. 

For those looking to venture beyond Ship Bottom, there are several nearby attractions worth visiting, including the Seaside Heights Boardwalk, the Jenkinson’s Aquarium, and the Atlantic City casinos. There are also several festivals and events held throughout the year, such as the annual Chowderfest and the Long Beach Island Kite Festival.  Parking in Ship Bottom is plentiful and convenient, with multiple public lots and street parking available. Visitors can also take advantage of the local shuttle service to get around the town and explore all that it has to offer.

If you're looking for a little more excitement, Ship Bottom has plenty to offer. Take a charter fishing trip to reel in the big one, or rent a jet ski or parasail to soar above the waves. And if you're feeling adventurous, head out on a dolphin-watching tour to spot these majestic creatures in the wild. When the day is done, return to one of our luxurious vacation rentals, From cozy cottages to spacious homes, they have something to fit every group's size and budget.

One of the town's favorite places to visit is the Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a great spot for picnics. History buffs can visit the Jetty State Park, which is a popular spot for bird watching and exploring the remnants of a former fishing village.

Overall Ship Bottom is a great town on Long Beach Island to bring a family or your significant other.

Ship Bottom 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.

Ship Bottom's nearby attractions

  1. Long Beach Island: The island is home to several miles of beautiful beaches, making it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

  2. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park: The park features the historic Barnegat Lighthouse, which offers stunning views of the coast and the opportunity to climb to the top of the lighthouse.

  3. Fantasy Island Amusement Park: A family-friendly amusement park with rides, games, and attractions for all ages.

  4. Atlantic City: Located just a short drive away, Atlantic City offers a wide variety of entertainment options, including casinos, shows, and shopping.

  5. Jenkinson's Boardwalk: A popular spot for shopping, dining, and entertainment, featuring an aquarium, arcade, and mini-golf course.

  6. Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge: A protected area for wildlife and birdwatching.

  7. Tuckerton Seaport: A maritime village featuring exhibits and demonstrations of traditional coastal trades and crafts.

  8. Ocean County Historical Society: A museum showcasing the history of the region.

  9. Island Beach State Park: A natural area featuring a long stretch of beach, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities.

  10. Six Flags Great Adventure: A theme park featuring roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment.

  11. Bay Village: A small historic village with a variety of shopping and dining options.

  12. The Noyes Museum of Art: A contemporary art museum showcasing the work of regional artists.

  13. Garden State Discovery Museum: An interactive children's museum with hands-on exhibits and activities.

  14. Atlantic City Aquarium: A small aquarium featuring a variety of marine life.

  15. Asbury Park Boardwalk: A popular spot for shopping, dining, and entertainment, featuring an amusement park, arcades, and live music venues.

Things to do in Ship Bottom'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 Ship Bottom

  1. Take a sunset stroll on the beach: Holding hands as the sun sets over the ocean is a romantic and timeless way to spend an evening.

  2. Have a picnic on the beach: Pack a romantic dinner for two and enjoy it on the beach as the sun sets.

  3. Take a romantic boat ride: Rent a boat or take a charter and enjoy the ocean views together.

  4. Go for a horse-drawn carriage ride: Take a romantic tour of the town in a horse-drawn carriage.

  5. Have a couples massage: Relax and rejuvenate together with a couples massage at a local spa.

  6. Take a wine tasting tour: Visit local wineries and sample some of the area's best wines.

  7. Have a romantic dinner at a fine-dining restaurant: Enjoy a candlelit dinner together at one of the island's many upscale restaurants.

  8. Go stargazing: Take a blanket and lie on the beach to watch the stars together.

  9. Take a romantic bike ride: Rent bikes and explore the island together.

  10. Take a romantic walk on the boardwalk: Holding hands and taking a romantic walk on the boardwalk is a classic way to spend an evening.

  11. Go for a romantic hike: Take a hike on one of the nearby nature trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.

  12. Take a romantic cooking class: Learn to cook a new dish together at a local cooking class.

  13. Take a sunset sail: Enjoy the ocean views as the sun sets on a romantic sailboat ride.

  14. Have a bonfire on the beach: Spend the evening cuddled up together by a bonfire on the beach.

Things to do with Children in Ship Bottom

  1. Visit the Fantasy Island Amusement Park: This amusement park offers a variety of rides and attractions for children of all ages.

  2. Spend a day at the beach: Long Beach Island offers miles of beautiful beaches, perfect for building sandcastles and swimming.

  3. Take a trip to the Tuckerton Seaport: This maritime village offers exhibits and demonstrations of traditional coastal trades and crafts, perfect for children to learn about the history and culture of the area.

  4. Visit the Jenkinson's Boardwalk: This popular spot offers shopping, dining, and entertainment, including an aquarium, arcade, and mini-golf course.

  5. Take a dolphin-watching tour: Children will love the opportunity to spot dolphins in the wild.

  6. Visit the Garden State Discovery Museum: This interactive children's museum offers hands-on exhibits and activities.

  7. Take a trip to the Atlantic City Aquarium: This small aquarium features a variety of marine life, perfect for children to learn about different sea creatures.

  8. Rent a kayak or paddleboard: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the nearby bay and waterways with children.

  9. Visit the Long Beach Island Museum: This museum offers exhibits and educational programs about the history and culture of the area.

  10. Play at the playgrounds: There are plenty of playgrounds around the area, perfect for little ones to burn off energy.

  11. Take a fishing trip: Children will enjoy the opportunity to reel in their own catch.

  12. Go for a bike ride: Rent a bike and explore the island together.

  13. Play mini-golf: There are several mini-golf courses in the area, perfect for a fun family activity.

  14. Visit the Long Beach Island Branch of the Ocean County Library: This library offers programs and events for children, including storytimes and craft activities.

  15. Have a picnic in a park: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a family-friendly outing in one of the local parks.

Favorite Restaurants and Eateries in and around Ship Bottom

  1. Surf City Fishery Co: This seafood market offers a wide selection of fresh fish and seafood, as well as prepared meals to take home. They also have a small café that serves fresh seafood sandwiches and other seafood dishes.

  2. La Spiaggia Restaurant: This Italian restaurant is known for its homemade pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and friendly service.

  3. Ship Bottom Shell Fish: This seafood market offers a variety of fresh shellfish and seafood, as well as prepared meals to take home.

  4. Raimondo's: This Italian restaurant offers a variety of homemade pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and wood-fired pizzas. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of craft beers and wines.

  5. Port Hole Cafe: This casual seafood restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes, sandwiches and salads. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of beers and wines.

  6. The Arlington: This American restaurant offers a variety of dishes such as seafood, steak, chicken and vegetarian options. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of beers and wines.

  7. Salt Kitchen & Bar: This seafood restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of beers and wines.

  8. Mystic Meat & Seafood Market: This seafood market offers a wide selection of fresh fish and seafood, as well as prepared meals to take home.

  9. Gregory's: This Italian restaurant offers a variety of homemade pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and wood-fired pizzas. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of craft beers and wines.

  10. Dune 18 Restaurant: This American restaurant offers a variety of dishes such as seafood, steak, chicken and vegetarian options. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of beers and wines.

  11. Bageleddi's: This casual bagel shop serves a variety of bagel sandwiches, pastries, and coffee.

  12. Russo's Italian Restaurant: This Italian restaurant offers a variety of homemade pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and wood-fired pizzas. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of craft beers and wines.

  13. Speakeasy Pizzeria & Restaurant: This pizzeria serves a variety of pizza, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of beers and wines.

  14. Zen Sushi Asian Cuisine: This Japanese restaurant serves a variety of sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes.

  15. Shore Good Donuts Inc: This doughnut shop serves a variety of doughnuts, coffee and pastries.

  16. Gateway Restaurant: This American restaurant offers a variety of dishes such as seafood, steak, chicken and vegetarian options. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of beers and wines.

  17. The Local Market & Kitchen: This café and market offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, soups and artisanal products.

  18. Jayson's Pancake House: This casual pancake house serves a variety of pancakes, waffles, and other breakfast dishes.

  19. L B I Pancake House: This casual pancake house serves a variety of pancakes, waffles, and other breakfast dishes.

  20. Greenhouse Cafe: This café serves a variety of sandwiches, soups, and salads.

  21. Ravioli & More: This Italian restaurant offers a variety of homemade pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and wood-fired pizzas.

  22. Dark Star Cafe: This casual café serves a variety of sandwiches, soups, and salads.

  23. Dunkin': This is a popular chain donut and coffee shop, they serve a variety of donuts, breakfast sandwiches and beverages.

  24. A Little Bite of Italy: This Italian restaurant offers a variety of traditional Italian dishes such as pasta, pizza, and seafood.

  25. Surf Taco Coastal Cuisine: This casual restaurant serves a variety of Mexican-inspired dishes such as tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.

  26. Vincents Chair Caning: This shop specializes in chair caning and furniture repair.

  27. The Big Dipper: This ice cream shop serves a variety of ice cream flavors and toppings.

  28. Side Door Donuts & Coffee: This donut shop serves a variety of donuts, coffee, and other breakfast items.

  29. Biggy's Beach Grill: This casual restaurant serves a variety of American dishes such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads.

  30. Maristella's Luncheonette: This casual café serves a variety of sandwiches, soups, and salads.

  31. Joey's Pizza: This pizzeria serves a variety of pizza, sandwiches, and salads.

  32. Gateway Lounge & Liquors: This bar serves a variety of beers, wines, and cocktails.

  33. Old Causeway: This seafood restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes and extensive raw bar selection. They also have a bar that serves a variety of beers and wines.

  34. Little Sumo's: This casual sushi restaurant serves a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes.

  35. Northside Bar & Grille: This casual restaurant serves a variety of American dishes such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a bar that serves a variety of beers and wines.

  36. Blue Claw Seafood Market: This seafood market offers a wide selection of fresh fish and seafood, as well as prepared meals to take home.

  37. New Eatery Lic: This is a casual restaurant that serves a variety of dishes, such as seafood, steak, chicken and vegetarian options.

  38. Lex Mex: This casual Mexican restaurant serves a variety of traditional Mexican dishes such as tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.

  39. Anthony's Trattoria: This Italian restaurant offers a variety of homemade pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and wood-fired pizzas. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of craft beers and wines.

  40. Bisque Restaurant: This seafood restaurant serves a variety of seafood dishes, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of beers and wines.

  41. The Tavern at Black-Eyed Susans: This casual restaurant serves a variety of American dishes such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a bar that serves a variety of beers and wines.

  42. Smokin Chicks Got Wood BBQ: This casual BBQ restaurant serves a variety of BBQ dishes such as ribs, pulled pork, and brisket.

  43. Mc Seafood Mkt: This seafood market offers a wide selection of fresh fish and seafood, as well as prepared meals to take home.

  44. The Dutchmans: This casual seafood restaurant serves a variety of seafood dishes, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of beers and wines.

  45. How You Brewin Internet Cafe: This café serves a variety of coffee and tea drinks, sandwiches and pastries. They also provide internet service and a small seating area.

  46. Wally Mitchell's Luncheonette: This casual café serves a variety of sandwiches, soups, and salads.

  47. Panzone's Pizza: This pizzeria serves a variety of pizza, sandwiches, and salads.

  48. Surf City Pizza: This pizzeria serves a variety of pizza, sandwiches, and salads.

  49. Shore Fire Grille: This casual restaurant serves a variety of American dishes such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a bar that serves a variety of beers and wines. They also have a small seating area where they can enjoy live music and special events.

  50. The Octopus's Garden: This seafood restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes, including raw bar selection and sushi. They also have a bar that serves a variety of beers, wines and craft cocktails. The atmosphere is casual and elegant, with a focus on ocean-inspired decor. The restaurant has a cozy outdoor seating area with fire pits, perfect for enjoying a meal or a drink on a nice evening.

Ship Bottom History

  • Ship Bottom, NJ is a small seaside town located on Long Beach Island. The history of the area dates back to the 1600s, when the land was occupied by the Lenape Native Americans. In the late 1700s, the first European settlers arrived, and the island was primarily used for farming and fishing.

  • In the mid-1800s, the island began to attract tourists, and several hotels were built to accommodate them. The island also saw the development of several fishing villages, including what is now Ship Bottom. The town was originally named "Ship Bottom" because it was located at the bottom of the island, and ships would anchor there to avoid the dangerous currents and storms further up the coast.

  • In the late 1800s, the island saw a boom in development as more and more people began to discover its beauty and recreational opportunities. The island was connected to the mainland by a causeway in 1914, making it more easily accessible to tourists. This led to an increase in the construction of summer homes and vacation rentals, and the island's population began to grow.

  • During the 20th century, Ship Bottom continued to thrive as a summer destination. The town saw the construction of several new homes, as well as the development of new businesses to serve the growing number of tourists. However, the town was also hit hard by several major storms, including the devastating Hurricane of 1938 and Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Despite these setbacks, the community has continued to rebuild and today, Ship Bottom remains a popular destination for visitors looking to experience the best of the Jersey Shore.

Local Churches and Synagogues

  • 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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