Staycation in NJ: More great day trip ideas in South Jersey

If you've never been to Long Beach Island (LBI) you're missing a unique Jersey Shore treasure. You won't find any boardwalks and there is only one way in and one way out. That keeps the atmosphere and feel of a less developed barrier reef island more peaceful and authentic. It also causes some major traffic headaches getting on, off and up and down the island.

Here is a solution not everyone knows about in the summer. Probably the liveliest town on the island is Beach Haven. There is plenty to do for all members of the family and it's still one of the prettiest towns on the shore. So, get there by boat! There is a ferry from the Tuckerton to Beach Haven Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays in the summer.  Before you go check out the Tuckerton Seaport.

If you don't mind the traffic of getting on and off LBI, make a left and head to the quieter side of the island. About a 15-minute drive north leads you straight to the end of the road at Barnegat Light. Of course, you'll want to check out Old Barney, the Barnegat Lighthouse. Even though the website says the lighthouse is open for business the following day it has been closed this summer for renovations. It still shouldn’t deter you from taking a walk around the jetty and the inlet.

You'd be hard-pressed to find a more peaceful scenic spot at the Jersey Shore. Besides the lighthouse, check out Viking Village.

Grab a bite to eat at Kelly's after a long walk on the jetty.

One of the most beautiful hotels anywhere on the Jersey Shore outside of AC of course is Hotel LBI. It's right at the entrance to the island and worth stopping in for a meal or a stay if they're not completely booked. Long Beach Island is Exit 63 off the Garden State Parkway and Tuckerton is Exit 58. You won't be disappointed getting off at either one any time of the year, but summer is the time to check out these South Jersey gems.

Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Dennis Malloy only.

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