Barnegat Light Bay Beach(Barnegat Guarded Beach)

Centered around its historic lighthouse “Old Barney”, Barnegat Light Bay Beach is a popular beach nestled on the tip of Northern Long Beach Island. With sweeping gold sands, clear baby blue waters, incredible lighthouse lighting, and panoramic views of the Atlantic, Barnegat Beach is the crown jewel of the New Jersey Gateway.

As a paid beach, it’s well maintained and offers unique amenities. Looking to lounge and tan in the sand? Barnagat has pristine sand, lounge chairs, beachside wheelchairs, dog-friendly areas, and scenic beachside walkways that make for the perfect day of fun in the sun. When the sun sets and you’re heading out, stop by the beach’s showers and restrooms to reset for the night to come.

Prefer a beach day of adventure? Try your luck at catching the Atlantic Ocean’s plentiful game fish and crabs, swim in its clear water, or surf during high tide to ride exhilarating waves.

While Barnagat Beach has plentiful parking, getting to the beach by foot can be a bit of a walk. But once you’re there, you’ll find that Barnagat’s worth it.

Fun fact, Barnegat Light is known for its historic lighthouse, which is one of the most iconic attractions on Long Beach Island. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Nearby attractions include the Viking Village, a fishing village that dates back to the 1920s, and Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, which offers excellent opportunities for fishing, hiking, and birdwatching.

As a quaint small-town beach, Barnegat doesn’t have an internationally acclaimed dining scene. However, its local restaurants offer high-quality and locally-sourced grub that’ll satisfy even the most discerning beachgoers. At Lucille’s Country Cooking, which was one of late chef Anthony Bourdain’s favorite brunch spots, experience some of New Jersey’s finest clam chowder and French toast. For a more lively night, head to Lefty’s Tavern, and feast on top-notch American fine dining and strong drinks

And when you’re ready to call it a night, check-in at the Blue Creek Inn or the Mariner Inn for spacious rooms and top-notch inn hospitality.