Published: July 1, 2024Â Â
Updated: July 29, 2024
Long Beach Island is truly a place like no other. With over half a dozen towns spread along its 18-mile stretch, the island possesses a unique diversity — a never-ending array of excitement and activity against a backdrop of natural beauty.
With its stunning beaches and variety of entertainment, it’s no wonder so many choose Long Beach Island as their vacation destination. But in an area so rich with options, planning your trip can be an overwhelming task. Don’t worry though, we’ve got you covered!
This article offers a comprehensive guide on the best places to stay in LBI, along with our recommendations on the attractions and restaurants worth visiting during your getaway.
Hotel Categories
Long Beach Island offers a wide range of accommodations for any type of vacation. No matter what you are looking for, you will be able to find it on the island. We’ve broken down LBI’s extensive hotel scene into four categories.
Click links to jump to that hotel's details!
*all rates displayed below are in-season rates (Memorial Day to Labor Day)
Beachfront
- The Seashell Beach Resort: Â $640-$1,050
- Engleside Inn: $430-$729
- Spray Beach Oceanfront Motel: $479-$799
- Drifting Sands Oceanfront Hotel: $320-$500
- Coral Seas Oceanfront Motel: $305-$415
Budget-Friendly
- Sea Horse Motel: $299-$359
- Surf City Hotel: $219-$419
- The Boulevard Hotel: $399-$499
- The Hideaway: $399-$419
Cost Cutters
- Lorry’s Island End Motel: $169-$319
- Haven Beach Motel: $125-$275
- Sea Spray Motel: $166-$339Â
- Hurley’s Inn: $160-$372
- The Islander Motel: $214-$289
- The North Shore Inn: $150-$230
- White Whale Motel: $169-$349
Beachfront Hotels
The Seashell Beach Resort
10 S Atlantic Ave, Beach Haven, NJ
Overview
Situated on the soft sands of Beach Haven, Sea Shell Resort offers unparalleled relaxation for your Long Beach Island reprieve. With a swimming pool, beach lounge, tiki bars, and direct beach access, it will be easy to kick back and enjoy the beauty of the island.Â
AmenitiesÂ
- Swimming Pool
- RestaurantÂ
- Outdoor BarÂ
- Beachfront fire pitsÂ
- Beach badges
Pet Policy
No pets are allowed throughout the summer season, except service animals. First-floor queen rooms are dog-friendly in the spring and fall at a rate of 40/per dog per night with a maximum of 3 dogs per room.Â
Room Types
- Oceanfront: sleeps up to 4, 1 king bed or 2 queen.Â
- Deluxe: sleeps up to 4, 1 king bed or 2 queen.Â
- Suite: sleeps up to 5, 1 king bed + 1 queen sleeper sofa and murphy day.Â
In Season Rates: $640-$1,050 per night
Engleside InnÂ
30 Engleside Ave. Beach Haven, NJÂ
Overview
Central to the bustle and excitement of Beach Haven, Engleside Inn is the perfect retreat for any vacationer. Offering a pool, restaurant, outdoor bar, and a direct beach walkover, Engleside’s extensive amenities ensure nothing but clear skies and smooth sailing. Â
AmenitiesÂ
- Swimming Pool
- RestaurantÂ
- Outdoor BarÂ
- Beach badges
Pet Policy
No dogs are allowed during the summer season. Pets are allowed the third weekend of September through the second weekend in May.Â
Room Types
- Oceanfront: sleeps up to 4, 1 king bed or 2 queen.Â
- Deluxe: sleeps up to 4, 1 king bed or 2 queen.Â
- Suite: sleeps up to 5, 1 king bed + 1 queen sleeper sofa and murphy day .Â
In Season Rates: $430-$729 per night
Spray Beach Oceanfront HotelÂ
200 E 24th Street. Beach Haven, NJ 08008
Overview
Spray Beach Oceanfront Hotel offers blissful luxury just steps away from the ocean. In addition to stunning scenery and a stellar location, Spray Beach was recently renovated making it the most modernized beachfront hotel on Long Beach Island. It also boasts a beachfront bar, outdoor beach dining, and an elevator providing access to the best ocean views.Â
AmenitiesÂ
- Heated swimming pool
- Beachfront bar and restaurant
- Beach badgesÂ
- Wifi
Pet Policy
Spray Beach Hotel allows pets in certain sections of the hotel. There is a limit of two pets per room, not exceeding 50 pounds each. The guest will be charged a $75 service charge.
Room Types
- Standard: sleeps up to 4, two double beds
- Queen Deluxe: sleeps up to 4, two queen beds
- Oceanfront: sleeps 2-4, two double beds, one queen bed, or one king bed
In Season Rates: $479 – $799 per night
Drifting Sands Oceanfront HotelÂ
119 E 9th Street, Ship Bottom, NJ, 08008
Overview
Drifting Sands offers beachfront comfort for the whole family – including pets! Located in the heart of Ship Bottom, provides easy access to the bridge and to the many businesses and restaurants in Ship Bottom and Surf City. It is one of the more cost friendly oceanfront hotels on LBI.Â
AmenitiesÂ
- Outdoor lounge
- Complimentary beach chairs and towels
- Wifi
Pet Policy
Drifting Sands is pet-friendly and allows up to 2 pets under a combined weight of 100 pounds. There is a $100 pet fee per reservation.
Room Types
- Oceanfront: sleeps up to 4, ocean views and private balconies
- Oceanside: family-friendly accommodations; sleeps up to 4 with adjoining guestrooms available for larger groups
- Efficiency: ideal for large families, offering a full kitchen; sleeps up to 4 with family suites available for large parties
- Oceanbreeze: sleeps up to 4, one king bed or two double beds
In Season Rates: $320- $500 per night
Coral Seas Oceanfront Motel
21 Coral Street, Beach Haven, NJ, 08008Â
Overview
The Coral Seas is a family-owned motel celebrating 50 years of continuous ownership. It is located in the heart of the Beach Haven historic district, a central location in town, which makes it a desirable location for families looking to be in action and have the convenience of being steps away from the beach. Combined with its affordable pricing, it’s no surprise why many of its customers are repeats, with some coming since it was opened, and why generations of families continue to make this their summer vacation spot every year. Coral Seas is open from the middle of May until the beginning of October.Â
AmenitiesÂ
- PoolÂ
- Beach badges
Pet Policy
Pets are not permitted.
Room Types
- Standard: sleeps up to 4, two double beds
- Patio Rooms: sleeps up to 4, two double beds, private patio
- Oceanfront: sleeps up to 4, two double beds or one queen, private patio with ocean view
- Coral Seas Suites: sleeps up to 5, two double beds and a pull out couch
In Season Rates: $305 – $415 per night
Luxury Hotels
Daddy O
4401 Long Beach Blvd, Brant Beach, NJ, 08008
Overview
At Daddy O, guests enjoy the finest hotel accommodations in a retro-inspired environment of laid-back luxury. Located just one block from the beach, and containing one of the best restaurants on the island, Daddy O is the picture of convenience and hospitality.Â
AmenitiesÂ
- Restaurant and barÂ
- Continental breakfast
- Live entertainmentÂ
- Wifi
- Beach badges
Pet Policy
Daddy O is not pet-friendly.
Room Types
- Standard Queen: sleeps up to 2, one queen bed
- Double Queen: sleeps up to 4, two queen beds
- Queen Suite: sleeps up to 3, one queen bed and a couch
- King Suite: sleeps up to 3, one king bed and a couch
In Season Rates: $416-$556 per night
Hotel LBI
350 West 8th Street, Ship Bottom, NJ, 08008
Overview
Hotel LBI is the island’s newest hotel and offers first-rate amenities in an atmosphere of charming luxury. This is the intersection of indulgence and comfort – with spacious suites, full kitchens, and summer charm, it is easy to make yourself right at home. Â
AmenitiesÂ
- Pool and hot tub
- Fitness room
- Restaurants and rooftop bar
- Complementary shuttle to and from beach
- Excursion planning
- Wifi
- Beach badges
Pet Policy
Hotel LBI does not allow pets.
Room Types
- King Suite: sleeps up to 2, one king bed
- One Bedroom Suite: sleeps up to 4, one king bed and a full-sized sleeper sofa
- Two Bedroom Suite: sleeps up to 6, one bedroom with a king bed, a separate bedroom with a set of bunk beds and a single bed, and a living room with a full-sized sleeper sofa
- Family Bunk Suite: sleeps up to 6, one bedroom with a king bed and a separate bedroom with two sets of bunk beds
In Season Rates: $565-$1200 per night
Budget Friendly
Sea Horse Motel
4204 Long Beach Blvd, Beach Haven, NJ, 08008
Overview
Sea Horse Motel offers affordable accommodations for couples and families alike. With both cosy rooms and full apartment suites, the Sea Horse Motel is perfect for long and short-term stays.
AmenitiesÂ
- PoolÂ
- Pool deck
- Wifi
- Beach badges
Pet Policy
Sea Horse Motel is not pet-friendly.
Room Types
- One queen bed, sleeps up to 2
- One queen and one double bed, sleeps up to 4
- Adjoining rooms, sleeps up to 6
In Season Rates: $299- $359
Surf City Hotel
800 Long Beach Blvd, Surf City, NJ, 08008
Overview
Surf City Hotel is your one-stop shop for excellent hospitality and non-stop entertainment. With a restaurant, bar, and club on the premises, your vacation will be action-packed with no shortage of excitement.
AmenitiesÂ
- Restaurant, clam, and sushi bar
- Live entertainment
- Wifi
- Liquor store
- Beach Badges
Pet Policy
Surf City Hotel is not pet-friendly.
Room Types
- 2 Bedroom Suite: sleeps up to 4, one queen bed and a separate room with one full bed
- Double: sleeps up to 4, two queen or full beds
- Single Bed with Sofa: sleeps up to 3, one king bed with full sofa
- Single Bed Studio: sleeps up to 2, one king, queen, or full bed
In Season Rates: $219- $419 per night
The Boulevard HotelÂ
13401 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach, NJ, 08008
Overview
Formerly the Mariner Inn, The Boulevard Hotel underwent a complete renovation, making it one of the newest and most modernized hotels on Long Beach Island. It is located just a few blocks from the beach, less than a 5-minute drive to downtown Beach Haven, and within a few blocks of several restaurants, pickleball courts, and an ice cream parlor.Â
AmenitiesÂ
- Heated pool
- Beach badges
- Recreation and game room
- Wifi
Pet Policy
The Boulevard is not pet-friendly.
Room Types
- Boulevard Rooms: sleeps up to 4, two queen beds
- Family Bunk: sleeps up to 6, two queen beds and one twin bed above each queen
- Boulevard Suite: sleeps up to 2, one king bed
In Season Rates: $399- $499 per night
The Hideaway
5416 S Bay Ave. Holgate, NJ, 08008
Overview
The Hideaway is quaintly situated at the end of the island in Holgate and offers youthful, coastal chic vibes.Â
AmenitiesÂ
- Rooftop space and second-floor deck
- Complementary bikes
- Wifi
- Beach badges
Pet Policy
The Hideaway has pet-friendly rooms available. Pets are accepted on a case-by-case basis, and pet request forms can be submitted here.
Room Types
- Deluxe King: sleeps up to 2, one king bedÂ
- Deluxe Queen: sleeps up to 2, one queen bedÂ
- Deluxe Double: sleeps up to 4, two full beds
In Season Rates: $399-$419 per night
Cost-Cutters
Lorry’s Island End Motel
23 W Washington Ave. Holgate, NJ, 08008
Overview
Lorry’s Island End Motel has been a community staple for decades, with staff committed to providing affordable Long Beach Island vacations for all patrons.
AmenitiesÂ
- Continental breakfast
- Courtyard with BBQ grills and children’s play area
- Wifi
- Beach badges
Pet Policy
Lorry’s Motel allows small dogs on a case-by-case basis.
Room Types
- One Queen Bed: sleeps up to 2
- Two Queen Beds: sleeps up to 4
- Double Bed and Pull-out: sleeps up to 3
- Two Bedroom: sleeps up to 6, one queen bed, one double bed, and a bunk bed
In Season Rates: $169-$319 per night
Haven Beach MotelÂ
11004 Long Beach Blvd, Haven Beach, NJ, 08008
Sitting directly on the bay, staying at Haven Beach Motel will provide you with expansive water views without breaking the bank.
AmenitiesÂ
- Heated pool
- BBQ grill area
- Wifi
- Beach badges
Pet Policy
Haven Beach Motel does not allow pets.
Room Types
- 2 Full Sized Beds, sleeps up to 4
In Season Rates: $125-$275 per night
Sea Spray Motel
2600 S Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach, NJ, 08008
Overview
Sea Spray Motel offers accommodations for individuals, couples, or groups as large as 8 people. Boasting a heated pool and an array of outdoor recreations, Sea Spray Motel ensures a full dose of entertainment for a fraction of the cost.
AmenitiesÂ
- Heated pool
- Wifi
- Beach badges
Pet Policy
Sea Spray Motel does not allow pets.
Room Types
- Single Queen or King: sleeps up to 2
- Double Queen: sleeps up to 4
- Suites: 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, sleeps up to 8
In Season Rates: $166-$339 per night
Hurley’s InnÂ
4804 S Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach, NJ, 08008
Overview
Peacefully situated in Holgate’s residential area, Hurley’s creates an atmosphere of quiet and familiarity just moments away from the beach.
AmenitiesÂ
- Wifi
- Beach badges
Pet Policy
Hurley’s is not pet-friendly.
Room Types
- One Queen: sleeps up to 2
- One King: sleeps up to 2
- Two Doubles: sleeps up to 4
In Season Rates: $160-$372 per night
The Islander Motel
1202 Central Ave, Ship Bottom, NJ, 08008
Overview
Located perfectly between the bay and the beach, The Islander Motel features updated decor and modern amenities in the heart of Ship Bottom.Â
AmenitiesÂ
- Wifi
- Beach badges
Pet Policy
The Islander is not pet-friendly.
Room Types
- King Room: sleeps up to 2
- Efficiency Room: one king bed or two queens, sleeps up to 4
- Regular Room: two queen beds, sleeps up to 4
In Season Rates: $214 – $289 per night
The North Shore InnÂ
806 Central Ave, Barnegat Light, NJ, 08008
Overview
The North Shore Inn is nestled at the island’s northern end, within walking distance of Old Barney and Barnegat Light State Park.
AmenitiesÂ
- Wifi
- Beach badges
Pet Policy
The North Shore Inn does not allow pets.
Room Types
- 2 Queen Standard: sleeps up to 4Â
- 2 Queen Efficiency: sleeps up to 4, small kitchenette
- 1 Queen Efficiency: sleeps up to 2, small kitchenette
In Season Rates: $150 – $230 per night
White Whale Motel
806 Central Ave, Barnegat Light, NJ, 08008
Overview
Laid-back and tranquil, The White Whale Motel pays homage to Long Beach Island’s rich history while offering easy access to island staples such as Barnegat Light, Viking Village, and Barnegat Bay
AmenitiesÂ
- Wifi
- Beach badges
Pet Policy
White Whale Motel does not allow pets.
Room Types
- 2 Person Standard: one queen bedÂ
- 3 Person Standard: one double bed and one twin bed
- 2 Bedroom Apartment: one queen bed, two twin beds, and a sofa bed, sleeps up to 5
In Season Rates: $169-349 per night
Best Times to Visit and Booking Strategies
Whether you’re going to Long Beach Island, NJ, with your family or as a couple, starting early is key to getting the best room and the best deal for your getaway. Try to book before March to ensure you have your choice of accommodations.
Make sure to take note of cancellation policies, weekly traffic volume, and weather forecasts. During the in-season, traffic peaks mid-morning on weekends in LBI.
Hotel rates in Long Beach Island are lower during pre-season and towards the end of summer. If possible, take advantage of an off-season getaway! You will enjoy the same beautiful island with much thinner crowds and cheaper prices. Start the season off early with a Memorial Day Weekend trip, or come visit the island in September to soak in the last drops of summer.Â
Beyond the Hotel: Exploring Long Beach Island
What exciting adventures await you in Long Beach Island, NJ? Here are some of the best activities, attractions, and restaurants in the area you must include in your itinerary.
It will also be good to do some research on the six municipalities in LBI. Find out which of these you like best in terms of location, beach accessibility, activities, and dining. Also, check the beach badges and rules in each area, as these vary per community. You can view our Summer Beach Access Guide Here to learn more!
LBI Cuisine: Popular Picks
Long Beach Island is home to a plethora of restaurants that are considered iconic to the island. Check out some of the following and see if they live up to the hype.
Â
LBI Locals' Hidden Gems
While there’s nothing wrong with having the full tourist experience, we’ve included a list of our favorite hidden gems below. To read more, view our Top 5 Hidden Gem Restaurants Guide.Â
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best beachfront hotels on LBI?
The best beachfront hotels in LBI are Sea Shell Resort, Engleside Inn, Spray Beach Oceanfront Hotel, Drifting Sands Oceanfront Hotel, and Coral Seas Oceanfront Motel.Â
When is the best time of year to book hotels?
It is best to book hotels during pre-season and towards the end of summer when hotel rates in Long Beach Island are lower.
What is the nicest hotel on LBI?
The most high-end hotels on the island are Hotel LBI and Daddy-O.Â
