Attractions and Places To See around Beach Haven - Top 6

Beach Haven is rich in history, particularly within its Beach Haven Historic District. This 30-square-block area is listed on both the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places, showcasing over 380 well-preserved buildings from the late 19th-century Victorian resort boom. Key architectural examples include the Williams Cottage Inn ("The Onion Dome"), Coral Street Grand Cottages, and the Portia Cottage. The original Holy Innocents Episcopal Church, now the Long Beach Island Historical Museum, is also a significant historical landmark.

Yes, Beach Haven offers several family-friendly attractions. You can visit Fantasy Island Amusement Park, the only amusement park on Long Beach Island, featuring rides for children. For water fun, the Thundering Surf Waterpark boasts eight giant waterslides, a lazy river, and wave pools. Additionally, Veteran's Bicentennial Park hosts community events and offers public sporting facilities, and there are options for miniature golf like Adventure Golf and Mr. Tee's Family Arcade & Mini Golf.

For serene walks and stunning views, visit Cedar Bonnet Island, which provides a natural escape. The town's pristine sandy beaches are a primary draw, offering clear waters and opportunities for sunbathing and strolling. You can also find quiet ocean views at Pearl Street Beach Pavilion. The Rutgers University Marine Field Station area also offers a small sandy beach at the end of the peninsula, perfect for catching a sunset or sunrise.

Beach Haven provides easy access to both the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay, making it ideal for various water activities. Visitors can enjoy surfing (with lessons available), kayaking, paddleboarding, and parasailing. Opportunities for fishing charters are also available in both the ocean and the bay.

Yes, Bay Village and Schooner's Wharf are popular shopping districts. Bay Village is a historic shopping center, while Schooner's Wharf features stores in a reconstructed tall ship, offering numerous shops and boutiques. For entertainment, the Surflight Theatre has been entertaining audiences with theatrical and musical productions since 1950.

Near Beach Haven, you can find several cycling routes suitable for various skill levels. Options include the 'Long Beach Island' route, a moderate 56 km ride, or easier loops like 'Beach Haven Historic District – Fantasy Island Amusement Park loop' (21 km) and 'The Dunes loop' (15 km). You can explore more cycling options on the Cycling around Beach Haven guide.

Beach Haven's beaches are renowned for their pristine sandy shores and clear greenish waters, often compared to the Caribbean. They offer ample space for sunbathing, relaxing on sandbars at low tide, and leisurely strolls. Beach badges are typically required for access, though they are not needed on Wednesdays.

Yes, Beach Haven is home to the Long Beach Island Historical Museum, housed in the original 1882 Holy Innocents Mission Church. It displays artifacts related to the history of Long Beach Island. Additionally, the New Jersey Maritime Museum is dedicated to the maritime history of the Jersey Shore, focusing on shipwrecks in the region. The Beach Haven Library & Museum is also located in a historic building dating back to 1906.

Beyond water sports, Beach Haven offers various active recreation opportunities. Veteran's Bicentennial Park provides public sporting facilities for tennis, pickleball, baseball, soccer, and basketball. You can also find several scenic nature trails for walking and bird watching. For a unique experience, Goat Yoga is offered on weekends.

Beach Haven is a popular summer destination, with most attractions and events, such as those at Veteran's Bicentennial Park, operating fully during the warmer months. The pleasant weather is ideal for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities. However, for a quieter experience, late spring or early fall can also be enjoyable, though some seasonal businesses might have reduced hours.

Absolutely. For a distinctive local flavor, you can visit Ship Bottom Brewery to enjoy handcrafted lagers and ales. Another unique offering is Goat Yoga, a social, fun, and therapeutic experience available on weekends. Exploring the architectural heritage of the Beach Haven Historic District also provides a glimpse into the town's past.

Visitors particularly enjoy the blend of historical charm, seaside relaxation, and family-friendly entertainment. The Beach Haven Historic District is appreciated for its 19th-century architecture and history. Natural spots like Cedar Bonnet Island offer serene walks and views, while Pearl Street Beach Pavilion is valued for its quiet, uncrowded atmosphere and ocean views.