When we purchased in Brigantine more than five years ago, the appeal was certainly the quiet and quaintness of the island, and the close proximity to Atlantic City, Ocean City and many other shore towns. We’ve found over time that many folks visiting Brigantine don’t often venture outside the island unless its for a quick trip to Atlantic City. While we would much rather spend our long, lazy beach days in Brigantine, it’s fun to explore the Jersey Shore once in a while.
On rainy or cold weather days, our favorite place to visit is Long Beach Island. Long Beach Island (or LBI as it’s frequently called) is roughly 50 minutes from Brigantine. Its one of the more crowded beach towns but for a day trip, it’s perfect to for a change of scenery. If you are planning a day trip to LBI, plan to eat and eat WELL! Some of the best restaurants line this 18-mile island. To be guaranteed a table, plan ahead with a reservation (a search on Yelp will yield several results). We’ve eaten at several restaurants between Surf City all the way down to Beach Haven and have not been let down yet. After filling our bellies, our next stop is either Old Barney (Long Beach Island’s light house at the northern most end of the Island) or a trip straight to Schooner’s Wharf for shopping and Fantasy Island–home to rides and the famous arcade (arguable the BEST arcade on the east coast–according to me, anyway). Another ‘must visit’ spot in LBI is the original Ron Jon Surf Shop. You can spot Ron Jon when you first drive over the bridge as a bright blue and yellow building. You’ll notice the small building just behind Ron Jon which, over 20 years ago, was the original building. Today, Ron Jon is two levels and carries everything you need from surf supplies to beach gear to apparel.
Another off-island day trip is Storybook Land. Storybook land was built in 1955 and is a 20 area family amusement park located in Egg Harbor Township and is only 23 minutes from Brigantine. This amusement part is ideal for kids from ages 2-10. Storybook land has rides, attractions and eateries. You are also welcome to pack a lunch as there are plenty of picnic tables throughout the park.
Adults and families with kids of various ages will enjoy a trip to Smithville. Smithville is located 23 minutes from Brigantine and is filled with shops, site-seeing and restaurants. This small, picturesque village makes the perfect day trip for cooler weather or cloudy beach days. Shop at the quaint stores, spend time with the kids on the carousel and train ride and cap the day off with a meal at the Smithville Inn or Lakeside Grill (reservations recommended).
While these are just a few day trips you can plan during your Brigantine stay, don’t forget about other shore towns that are just under an hour away including a trip to Cape May or Ocean City. One of the best parts about staying in Brigantine is the close proximity to so many other Jersey Shore attractions!
We are always happy to help you plan your stay. Please drop us a line if you’d like more specific recommendations!