May 23, 2016
Situated at the northern tip of Long Beach Island, Barnegat Light is best known for two things: first, the famous lighthouse, the fourth-tallest in the country. It's located at Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, where you can also picnic, hike, bird watch, fish or visit the Historical Society's museum.
Second: seafood. Viking Village is one of the largest commercial fishing docks in New Jersey, and visitors to the town can enjoy surf fishing, bay fishing and crabbing.
All in all, whether you're catching fish or just catching some sun, this town is the perfect spot for a day with the fam.
Beach tags are required for everyone age 12 and up. The cost of a season pass is $30 if bought before June 10, $40 after. Seniors (65 or older) can purchase a seasonal pass for $12 with proof of age. A weekly pass is $22, daily is $5.
Badges can be ordered by mail pre-season through this form (must be picked up in person). You can also buy badges at the Beach Badge Booth (W. 11th Street, behind the post office) or at Borough Hall (10 E. 7th Street).
Note that badges cost $1 extra if you have to buy them from a beach badge checker.
Lifeguards stand guard 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week fro mid-June until Labor Day.
Dogs are not allowed on the beach until September 15. However, there is a dog park on W. 10th Street and Bayview Avenue.
Don't swim on unguarded beaches.
Wear shoes on walkways and decks. No bikes, skateboards, or rollerblades on boardwalks.
Surfing and fishing are allowed only in designated areas.
No smoking, alcohol, picnics or fires on the beach.
There's free street parking throughout the town. The borough does not run any public parking lots but there is a parking lot at the Lighthouse.
The Barnegat Lighthouse is offering its first night climb of the season on May 28, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
That famous lighthouse is also the symbol for the Lighthouse Film Festival, taking place across the towns of Long Beach Island from June 9 to 12. Find out more here.
Everyone should be able to enjoy the beach regardless of their mobility, so Barnegat Light offers free beach wheelchairs, with wide wheels suitable for rolling over sand, to anyone who needs one. Reservations are required to get a chair; the city takes care of delivery and pick-up.
Learn more at the official borough website here.
