Dan Turi’s Guide to Biking on Long Beach Island

When we were all looking to head outdoors in the Summer of 2020, I invested in an E-bike as a way to get more exercise and get away from the stress and restrictions of the pandemic. It was one of the best things I’ve done in years. The result of my E-bike adventures is I’ve seen the 18 miles of LBI in a way that I never did by car.

This summer, I recommend going out and enjoying this beautiful island for yourself. Here’s what you’ll find in different parts of it...

As you head north on the Island your first pit stop can be the public beach access area in North Beach. There is plenty of parking, restrooms, and a chance to hit the beach there. I like that it’s a nice landmark on the way up to Harvey Cedars and Loveladies. The boulevard is wide in that area and the bike lane is perfect for riding. Crossing into Harvey Cedars, you’ll notice Sunset Park on the bay side. A great stop on your ride. They have tennis courts, volleyball, horseshoes, and a playground.

As you continue north, you’ll bike into Loveladies and pass the LBI Foundation area. A short distance from there is the park at Barnegat Bay Beach. Next up is a favorite, Viking Village, with its shops, food, and plenty of summer events. High Bar Harbor is a wonderful area to bike through as you make your way to Barnegat Light. There’s plenty to do there including buying kites at Kitty Hawk Kites and playing mini golf at Jen’s Links. I always make time to grab lunch at the Inlet Deli. You can load up your bike basket and have lunch at Barnegat Lighthouse State Park in the shadow of Old Barney.

This area encompasses the heart of LBI. Biking here will give you plenty of food options and fun activities. If it’s lunch you’re after, the highlights include Woodies Drive-In, Scojo’s, Wally’s Burger 25, La Bamba, and Pinky Shrimps. Lots of great shopping in this area too. Biking can be a bit hectic if it’s a nice weekend. But it’s worth seeing all the great local businesses. After your ride, you can chill out at Joe Pop’s, Daddy O’s, or Nardi’s and enjoy some cold refreshments. There’s something for everyone if you choose to bike here for the day.

This area is my favorite part of the biking LBI. The pace is slower as you head down the boulevard and there are plenty of places to relax and enjoy the sights while you’re out. Fantasy Island has fun with rides and the arcade all summer. Bay Village and Schooner’s Wharf are a must too. But my favorite is putting the bike in the rack by Polly’s Dock, Parker’s Garage, Bird and Betty’s or Tucker’s Tavern and recharging with some great food and drinks. Then, you can complete your ride with a nice quiet stretch of the boulevard heading south to Holgate. You’ll see some of the nicest homes on the Island. And you’ll soon reach the area just before the Wildlife Refuge. There’s parking, restrooms, and plenty of benches to take in the view at the southernmost tip of Long Beach Island.

You can spend the day following the Clam Trail Scavenger Hunt with Reclaim the Bay. You’ll find a map at the Southern Ocean Chamber of Commerce building on 9th Street in Ship Bottom. Then bike to see the giant clams throughout the area to learn more about Barnegat Bay and the region. Kids can get a certificate and a pin. I’m not a kid and I did it! Details at   https://reclamthebay.org/the-clam-trail/

There’s no wrong choice when you set out to bike LBI. So, hitch up your bike and head over the bridge to a fun day of two-wheeled fun. You won’t regret it.