Where to Catch Live Music on Long Beach Island

Whether you're strolling the beach at sunset or sipping a drink under string lights, Long Beach Island offers the perfect soundtrack to your summer. From laid-back acoustic sets at local bars to high-energy performances by New Jersey favorites, there's no shortage of live music to enjoy.

To help you make the most of your time on the island, we've rounded up the best spots to catch a show, both on and off the island, along with event schedules and can't-miss acts.

Check out local artists on our Spotify Playlist!

On the Island

Sea Shell Resort & Beach Club

The Shell is known for its variety of musical entertainment, both indoors and out. Spend your days lounging by the pool and your nights unwinding by the fire pits, all while enjoying live music on the Shell's outdoor stages, including the Tiki Bar and Beach Stage.

Prefer to dance? Head inside the club and move to the sounds of the area's top DJs and bands.

Don't miss weekly performances: Shorty Long & The Jersey Horns take the Beach Stage every Sunday at 4 PM, and The Pickles play the Tiki Bar every Wednesday at 2 PM.

Check their event calendar at theseashellresort.com/events.

Joe Pop's Shore Bar & Restaurant

Joe Pop's is an LBI classic, known for daily live music all summer long. With its iconic stage, Joe Pop's features some of the island's best bands and musicians every Friday and Saturday at 10 PM.

Start your week with Dueling Pianos on Mondays at 8 PM, where two pianists battle it out with crowd-requested hits.

Don't miss a local legend — The Nerds, one of New Jersey's most beloved rock & roll cover bands, performing every Wednesday at 10 PM.

For the latest weekend lineup, check the event calendar at joepops.com/events.

Bird & Betty's

Bird & Betty's is your go-to spot for dancing the night away with New Jersey's top DJs. With a spacious dance floor beneath a grand stage, this iconic nightclub was built for high-energy entertainment. Prefer a more laid-back vibe? Head to the upper deck and unwind by the fire pits while a second DJ spins nostalgic throwbacks.

While DJs are the main attraction, live bands also make special appearances throughout the summer.

Check the event calendar at birdandbettys.com/events.

The Marlin

The Marlin brings high-energy live music to LBI every weekend all summer long. Catch top regional bands like Coming Alive, Stereo Social Club, and Changing Lanes on a well-sized stage built for dynamic performances. With a spacious dance floor, there's plenty of room to move and enjoy some of the island's best live music.

See who's hitting the stage next at themarlinlbi.com/marlinbar.

Surf City Hotel

Live music lives on at the historic Surf City Hotel, with two unique entertainment experiences every weekend.

At the Surf City Bistro, enjoy laid-back acoustic performances Tuesday through Sunday starting at 3 PM — the perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon.

When night falls, head to the Beach Club, where the energy picks up with LBI favorites like Triple Rail Turn, Sidestory, and The Danksters performing Fridays and Saturdays at 9 PM.

Plus, don't miss Shorty Long & The Jersey Horns every Tuesday at 9 PM in July and August — a summer tradition you won't want to miss.

Find the full entertainment lineup at surfcityhotel.com/entertainment.html.

Nardi's Tavern & Grille

Catch live music every night of the week at Nardi's Tavern — one of LBI's most beloved music spots. Hop on the famous Nardi's bus and head to the action, where the intimate stage setup puts you right in the heart of the performance.

From Sunday to Thursday, live music kicks off at 9:30 PM, with Green Knuckle Material rocking the stage every Tuesday night. On Fridays and Saturdays, the party starts at 10 PM, featuring fan favorites like The Pickles, Big Bang Baby, and Friend Zone.

Come early on Sundays for the Dave Christopher Band at 5 PM, or enjoy acoustic sets from artists like Mike Byrne and Matt Pietrucha starting at 5 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

Check Nardi's full music lineup at nardistavern.com/band-schedule.

Buckalew's Restaurant & Tavern

Enjoy live music with no cover at Buckalew's, a laid-back tavern-style restaurant in the heart of LBI. From acoustic sets to high-energy cover bands, Buckalew's offers something for everyone Sunday through Thursday from 8–11 PM and Friday and Saturday from 9 PM–12 AM — all in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

Look out for popular acts like Josh & Friends, Mike Byrne, and No Time Lost throughout the week.

Check the full entertainment schedule at buckalews.com/entertainment.

Daddy O

Blending surf vibes with coastal cool, Daddy O delivers live music in a relaxed, beachside setting. Catch performances at the bar every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 6–9 PM, featuring laid-back sets from local favorites like The Pickles and Rob Connolly.

For special events and off-season promotions, check the full schedule at daddyolbi.com/happenings.

Black-Eyed Susans

Live music is always on the menu at Black-Eyed Susans, a cozy restaurant and tavern in Harvey Cedars. Whether it's the off-season or the height of summer, head upstairs to the bar and lounge to catch intimate performances by talented artists like La Stella Brothers, Chris Guzman, and Greg Warren.

With new musicians added regularly, there's always something fresh to enjoy. Check the full lineup at blackeyedsusanslbi.com/live-music.

Black Whale

The Black Whale is more than a great neighborhood bar and fish house — it's a local favorite for live music all year long. Catch Chris Fritz every Thursday at 7 PM throughout the summer, and enjoy off-season performances by Scotty Z and Justin Jones every Friday and Saturday at 7 PM.

With new musicians regularly added to the mix, there's always something fresh to hear. Follow @black_whale_lbi on Instagram and Facebook for updates and surprise sets.

Tucker's Tavern

Blending the charm of English pubs with the energy of American taverns, Tucker's Tavern is your go-to spot for live music and good vibes. Whether you're sharing a meal with friends or just looking for a laid-back night with great tunes, Tucker's has you covered.

Join Tucker's Tavern every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 7–10 PM for live performances. Catch local favorites like Rob Connolly, Red Bird, and Matt Fisher.

For the latest event schedule, visit tuckerstavern-lbi.com.

Off Island

The Old Causeway

The Old Causeway is a top spot for live entertainment all summer long. You'll find live music every Friday and Saturday night, with a rotating lineup of local and regional acts — check their social media for the latest schedule.

For a more laid-back vibe, head over on Monday nights for mellow sets, or stop by any day for acoustic happy hour, perfect for unwinding. Whether you're staying on or off the island, the Old Causeway is well worth the visit.

Follow @oldcauseway on Instagram for updates and the full music schedule.

The Mainland

The Mainland Kitchen & Pub keeps the music going multiple nights a week, making it a must-visit for live entertainment lovers.

Enjoy performances Wednesday through Saturday, with occasional Sunday shows to wrap up the weekend. With a mix of local talent and fun, relaxed vibes, The Mainland is perfect for a night out whether you're dining, grabbing drinks, or just enjoying the show.

Check the full live music schedule at facebook.com/themainlandnj/events.

ManaFirkin Brewing Company

ManaFirkin Brewing Company pairs its bold craft beers with a steady stream of live music and events, making it a lively hangout year-round.

Every Wednesday, catch Chuck'd Up performing from 5:30–8:30 PM, bringing good vibes to the midweek crowd. The brewery regularly features local favorites like Dan Hasse, Trevor Baylor, and Chris Guzman.

With new acts and events added often, there's always something brewing. Follow @manafirkin on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.