Whether you are just visiting Long Beach Island or you are a long-time resident, we can all agree that one of the best ways to get around the island is by bicycle. The community is very bicycle-friendly, and it is a wonderful way to get in some healthy exercise while having a good time and enjoying the weather. Yet, there is no need to ride aimlessly (unless you just want to!) because there are plenty of places to see and things to do.
Here is your Long Beach Island guide of fun places your group can see with your bike rental.
The Beach
Of course, the beach would be our first suggestion! You will find some of the best Mid-Atlantic beaches on LBI, and there is no better way to explore them than on a beach cruiser. We definitely suggest pointing your tires in the direction of the sand and the surf as often as you can. Bring along a picnic basket and make a day out of it! Ship Bottom beach is a good choice because it usually isn’t too crowded, and the views are absolutely stunning. Parking isn’t always easy to find here, but since you are arriving via bicycle it won’t be a concern for you!
Fantasy Island
If you have kids, or you are a kid at heart, you will find plenty to entertain you at Fantasy Island. This attraction takes the place of a boardwalk, and it contains plenty to do like an old-fashioned arcade that also happens to be air-conditioned. There are a few amusement park-style rides as well as carnival games to keep everyone entertained for hours. You can’t visit Fantasy Island without indulging in a few treats! You can find pretzels, cotton candy, popcorn, and fresh lemonade at the Surfside Snack Shack, but if you need more substantial fare, try the Shark Bites Grille where you can get sandwiches, burgers, and fries.
Barnegat Lighthouse
You can’t visit Long Beach Island without making the trek out to the lighthouse! Located on the northern tip of the island, this favorite spot among locals and tourists is lovingly referred to as Old Barney, and it was erected in 1835. You can take the 217 steps to the top if your legs aren’t too tired from the pedaling. Even if you don’t make it to the top, it is still worth the visit. You can also check out some of the trails in the area and take a chance at seeing turtles and other amazing wildlife.
Viking Village
Just a short pedal from the lighthouse, you will find the Viking Village. A quaint attraction, the village has plenty of shops for exploring. You will find the Viking Outfitters where you can get fishing gear and other rugged clothing items.The Seawife is packed from wall to wall with antiques and collectibles. You can also snag a few sweets at the Sugar Shack. Plus, there is a decent fish market, and you can find a boat to charter for your own deep sea fishing adventure. If you aren’t into fishing, you can opt for a more relaxing sunset cruise.
Get a Burger
The exertion of the bike ride deserves a little bit of compensation at the end of it, right? Make your destination Woodies, and you can be rewarded with a deliciously juicy cheeseburger. Woodies has over 42 different burgers to choose from. Plus, they also have fresh crab cakes, fried seafood, and hand-made shakes. You will never regret a trip to Woodies, just remember that they are cash only!
Get a Cone
Once you’ve eaten dinner, dessert should be on the agenda which is why you should head to Scoop City. This locally owned ice cream shop serves Nelson’s ice cream, a specialty brand from Philadelphia. There are 35 rich and creamy flavors that you can choose from running the gamut from the classic to the more adventurous. You aren’t limited to scoops! You can get banana splits, milkshakes, and even a root beer float. This ice-cream shop is open seven days per week.
Now that you know where to go and what to do, we just need to get you on a bike! Shore Brake Cyclery has a great selection of rental bikes that will suit your needs no matter which of these places you want to go to. We have single speed Beach Cruisers, comfort bikes, and road bikes. If you are looking for a less traditional option, you can try one of our trikes or tandem bikes.
