What’s the first thing you do after you buy a new car? If you’re like us, you celebrate! There’s no better way to do that quite like a trip to Long Beach Island. With panoramic ocean views, the smell of sea water, and lots of awesome things to do, LBI is the best place to take your first trip in your new car! Even better, it’s only a 9 minute drive from Lester Glenn Hyundai in Manahawkin. It’s the perfect scenario: pick up your brand new Hyundai, round up your family, and take a short drive to the beach! We put together a quick list of what we think are the best things to do in LBI. Check it out!
1.) NJ Maritime Museum
If you’ve ever had an interest in New Jersey shipwrecks and the artifacts that go with it, this is the place for you. Opened in 2007, the museum is comprised of a wide variety of exhibits including an extensive research library filled with shipwreck files and photographs, antique navigational equipment, and antique diving gear. The best part about this place is that it’s open year round – no need to wait for the summer months for this one! If you’re a history buff, this one’s for you.
2.) Thundering Surf Water Park
Everyone always loves a good water park in the summertime! Thundering Surf is a water park in true fashion, boasting 8 different water slides and the token Lazy Crazy River. Cowabunga Beach is designed specifically for toddlers so your little ones are sure to be entertained for the entire day. This water park is the perfect way to cool off from the Jersey summer heat and your entire family is guaranteed a great time!
3.) The Boardwalk LBI
Whether you come for the milkshakes or for the games, the LBI Boardwalk is sure to please. However long you plan on staying, there will always be something to do!
4.) Bayview Park
If you’re into water sports, volleyball, or basketball, this is the spot for you! It comes equipped with both basketball and volleyball courts as well as a full playground for the kids. There are also free weekly activities, concerts, and special events so it’s a great idea to stay on top of their schedule. A couple of perks: FREE parking and lots of bathrooms! This one has something for everyone.
5.) Charter Fishing Boats
There’s a nice fishing community in LBI with charter boats aplenty so if you’re looking to spend some time on the water, this is the perfect thing for you! Make sure to explore all of your options – there are a wide variety of boats and time frames available. Even if you don’t catch anything, a little time on the open sea is always time well spent.
6.) Bike Rentals
Get active while soaking up the sun! LBI offers a wide variety of bike rental outlets so you can explore everything in a way that’s definitely more fun than walking. If you’re not up for a bike ride, there are surfboards, skateboards, and paddle boards that are available to rent. The possibilities are endless!
7.) Black Pearl Private Adventures
Go for a relaxing cruise on one of LBI’s newest attractions – The Black Pearl. The ship was custom built in 2009 and it’s 60 feet long with a 20-foot beam. It has plenty of space to get the full pirate experience or to take it easy on one of the sunset cruises. One of their most popular features is the 12 water cannons that are used to “fend off” unfriendly pirates during their daily interactive pirate excursions. This one is definitely fun for the whole family!
8.) Hartland Golf & Arcade
Nothing says summertime quite like mini golf! This spot is an LBI tradition and is the perfect way to start or end any day at the shore. It has a full 18 holes, each with a chance at a Hole in One. It comes with varying levels of difficulty so it’s perfect for beginners and experts alike. After you complete all 18 holes, make sure to take a shot at the Bonus Hole for your chance to win the “Lucky Wheel” and win a prize! Fun for everyone!
9.) Ron Jon Surf Shop
The “Original” Ron Job Surf Shop resides in LBI and opened there in 1961. Whether or not you’re into surfing, it’s a really great opportunity to experience the landmark. You can also get your share of beach rental needs – surf boards, beach bikes, paddle boards, beach chairs and more.
10.) Glass Studio & Gallery
This is a really cool place to visit so you can take a break from the heat and do a little shopping. SwellColors Glass Studio designs and makes custom stained glass, mosaics, backsplashes, and fused glass artwork on the premises. They also feature daily classes on a walk-in basis for children and adults.
No matter the season, LBI is always worth the trip. Get to Lester Glenn Hyundai early, pick up your new car, and you’ll be in Long Beach Island in no time!
