The Island is only a quarter to a half of a mile wide in most areas, so one is never far from the sea. It has one amusement area and the only boardwalk was destroyed by a storm in 1944. This gives the area a peacefulness uncommon for a modern beach resort. Families and friends spend time together at the beach or enjoying one of the many fine restaurants. Shopping is another favorite pastime, as Long Beach is dotted with hundreds of stores and shops.

The most visited spot on the island lies, ironically, at its most tranquil northern tip. The Barnegat Lighthouse will reopen this season after renovations kept it closed last summer. Standing 165 feet above sea level, Old Barney is the second tallest brick lighthouse (after the one at Cape Hatteras) in the United States and draws about 500,000 visitors yearly. Be in shape before you go, since it's 217 steps to the top. But when you come down, it's a short walk to one of LBI's favorite ice cream stops, Kelly's Dairy Queen.