by Matthew Adams

Created on: August 16, 2008   Last Updated: September 30, 2008

Long Beach Island, as the name suggests, is host to a number of beaches. The unique geography of the island gives it a good stretch of coast with beaches suitable for surfing, bathing and other water-sports. These beaches usually have a fee but are of good quality.

Starting with Surf City, this beach, as the name suggests is most suitable for surfing. With a designated surf area between North First and North Third Street, along with a designated fishing beach. The beach also has outdoor recreation areas, including playground and basketball courts. The area is popular with tourists, and particularly family vacations. Be aware, however, that the beach is open from June 19th to September 6.

Beach Haven is home to many sun and surf families, as well as surfers and party seekers during the summer months. The beach offers excellent accessibility, and is near a shopping plaza. The pearl and fifth street pavilions also have restrooms. Seasonal badges are available at approximately $20 dollars, but $25 dollars after June 15th.

Long Beach Township offers 12 miles of beach, spanning two thirds of the island coastline. These beaches are family orientated, and are more or less flat. Summer windsurfing is also available at Branch Beach bay area. What more can be said Beach Townships, is that is has a beach patrol compromising 169 lifeguards. These man the 12 miles of beach during peek times. Seasonal badges are in the region of $25-$35 dollars.

At the Harvey Chedars, playground, volleyball, baseball, boccie and a paved fitness track are available. In addition, restrooms can also be found along the beach. At 77th Street bay bathing for young children can be found, while shopping and dining places are along Long Beach Boulevard. The beach has seasonal tickets in the region of $30 dollars.

Just to note, surfers are found at Beach Haven in areas not designated for swimming. This is permitted at the discretion of the lifeguards. At Surf City, surfing takes place between North Third and north First streets. Steer clear of such areas if seeking to bathe in the sea. Tennis courts and a softball diamond can also be found near Pearl Street and Bay Avenue

There are other beaches on Long Beach also, but these beaches cater for most summer vacation demands. You can surf, windsurf, swim, relax or engage in sport like beach ball and basketball on these beaches. Shopping and dining is also well catered for along these beach shorelines. So when heading for Long Beach, these beaches are definitely worth a look.

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