What’s Going On On The Island

Now that the New Year has turned, this is when the island really empties out. The holidays are over, the crowds are gone, and we’re heading into the toughest stretch of the year weather-wise — colder temps, steady wind, and long stretches where LBI feels more like a quiet barrier island than a destination.

Day-to-day life slows way down this time of year. Fewer people around, fewer things to do, and a lot more time spent watching the weather and picking your moments. It’s not flashy, but there’s something grounding about it — especially if you’ve been here long enough to appreciate the reset.

That said, there are still a few things on the calendar worth getting out for. One of them is Comedy Night at the Surflight Theatre on Saturday, January 17th. It’s the kind of winter event that actually makes sense — indoors, local, and a good excuse to break up the routine. Tickets can be purchased here.

Most seasonal spots are closed, but the places that stay open become even more important. Year-round gyms and studios like Elite Fitness, Hot or Not Yoga, Yoga Bohemia, Black Sheep Studios, and Pyour Core keep locals moving and give people a reason to get out of the house when the wind is howling.

The same goes for food. Winter options are limited, but the places that are open are reliable, familiar, and usually a lot more relaxed. If you’re looking for what’s actually open all winter, we keep an up-to-date list of year-round restaurants on LBI here.

This season isn’t about events or busy weekends — it’s about enjoying quiet streets, local food, and appreciating the island’s beauty in a different light.

What’s Going On In Real Estate

The New Year often serves as an organic catalyst for new listings, and this past week was a good example of that. We saw 12 new listings hit the market — some were homes that expired late in 2025 and came back on with fresh positioning, while others were true new listings making their first appearance.

As we move further into January, new inventory should continue to trickle onto the market, so buyers should keep a close eye on activity. While overall supply remains tight, this is typically one of the few windows where motivated sellers test the waters ahead of spring.

As we enter 2026, it’s important to understand the type of market we’re in — largely uncharted territory, and one that will likely be more challenging for buyers to navigate than in previous years. With persistently low inventory and excessive demand, today’s market is a mix of overpriced new listings alongside a smaller group that are actually priced right.

The difference is clear: listings that are priced correctly are getting scooped up almost immediately. That’s why working with someone who’s ahead of the curve — tracking inventory, pricing shifts, and off-market opportunities — can make all the difference when the right property hits.

If you’d like us to keep you on our short list for buying opportunities as they come up, feel free to reach out. Being prepared and positioned early is often the key to securing your ideal home in an increasingly difficult market.