Kickoff to Summer: What to Know for Memorial Day Weekend on LBI
Memorial Day Weekend marks more than the unofficial start of summer on Long Beach Island — it’s when the island truly comes back to life. Seasonal businesses reopen, beachgoers return, and the rhythm of the shore picks up after a quiet winter/spring. Whether you’re a longtime visitor or it’s your first trip of the season, here are a few things to keep in mind before heading down.
Beach Badge Reminders
LBI towns begin checking for beach badges starting Memorial Day Weekend. Each municipality has its own badge policies and prices, so be sure to check in with the town where you’ll be staying. Daily, weekly, and seasonal badges are available — and many towns now offer digital purchasing through apps or websites. Questions? Ask me here!
Expect More Traffic & A New Traffic Pattern
Route 72 and the Causeway will see increased traffic as the weekend approaches — and this year, drivers will experience a completely new traffic pattern for the first time in over 50 years. If you’re heading down on Friday, expect delays and consider arriving outside of peak hours or early Saturday morning to avoid congestion. How the new pattern handles holiday traffic remains to be seen. Will it finally ease the island’s long-standing backups, or just shift them around? Memorial Day Weekend will be its first real test.
Local Businesses Are Back
Restaurants, coffee shops, ice cream stores, mini golf, bakeries, boutiques, and more will be reopening if they haven’t already. Many operate with extended weekend hours starting Memorial Day. Whether it’s your go-to seafood spot or a new shop that opened over the winter, this is a great time to support local businesses gearing up for the season. Ask for some recommendations!
Events and Ceremonies
While large-scale events can vary from town to town, many LBI municipalities hold Memorial Day ceremonies to honor those who’ve served. Beach Haven, Ship Bottom, and Barnegat Light typically host public observances. If you’re on the island Monday, consider attending one as a way to take pause and reflect.
Don’t know where to go? Ask me!
Simple Ways to Enjoy the Weekend
Hit the beach early and pack extra layers — May weather is unpredictable
Grab breakfast or coffee from a spot that just reopened
Take a bike ride or walk the lighthouse trails
Check out the Ship Bottom town-wide yard sale
Catch live music at a local bar or park
Shop some of your favorite stores
Explore real estate for sale and new construction
Fishing: striped bass, flounder, blue fish, and more are in the bay and ocean at the moment. Cast from the beach, jetty, bay shoreline, or fishing charter!
Memorial Day is both a time for gratitude and a chance to reconnect with the island. However you choose to spend it, I hope it sets the tone for a great summer ahead.
Looking to make LBI a part of your future? Reach out — I’d be happy to help you explore homes for sale or plan your next rental.
