LBI Memorial Day Weekend Guide
Tucker’s Tavern
Memorial Day weekend is the official summer kickoff on Long Beach Island and we could not be more excited. There’s so much to do here and only so many hours to do it, so we decided to put together a little itinerary to ease your planning woes. All you have to do is make reservations!
Whether it’s your first time or 100th time, there's always something new and unique in store on LBI. It’s been a long year and you’ve definitely earned a relaxing weekend. Here is a guide to the perfect three-day holiday weekend for you and your family or friends to make sure you maximize the hours of fun and exploring (and of course, lots of eating).
Warning, it’s going to be jamming down here, so we recommend making reservations when possible. If you see a reservation on OpenTable or Resy make sure you snag it!
Friday Night
Kick off your three day weekend (and the summer) with an incredible sunset dinner on the water. We recommend trying out Howard’s or Parker’s Garage, both situated right on the bay, if you can manage to get a reservation. If you missed the boat on a Friday night dinner resy don’t worry, your dreams of waterfront views aren’t over yet. Gather your pals and head to Daddy O’s rooftop. Daddy O’s is walk-in only this summer so as long as you can get there early you’ll have no problem getting a table! After sunset, take the rest of the night to regroup and plan out your perfect weekend.
Saturday Morning
Start your morning out with a leisurely bike ride to pick up some breakfast goodies. We make sure we always hit Side Door Donuts and grab a dozen to bring home. They have all your favorite classics but their specials are always out of this world. We’re hoping they bring back their Boston cream brioche donuts because we’ve seriously been dreaming of these all winter long. After you get your fill of donuts, stop by the shops at Bay Village for some super cute boutiques and specialty shops. Grab a new outfit at Island Gypsy or a new swimsuit at B&B Department Store. If you’re looking for some unique snacks to jazz up your beach picnic, don’t miss Spice It Up! The friendly staff there will help you find the perfect fig spread or spice blend to give as a gift or take beachside.
Saturday Afternoon
After shopping ‘til you drop, it’s time for the beach! Pack lunch yourself or check out one of our favorite lunch spots and order takeout to bring to the beach. Before hitting the sand be sure to pick up your beach badge for the season! You’ve been waiting all year to come back to LBI’s 18 miles of beautiful beaches so sit back, relax, and enjoy. You’ve earned it. Afterwards, get that post-beach shower in and it’s already time to get ready for dinner!
Saturday Night
For dinner, Saturday night reservations are a must. Make them as early as possible at your favorite restaurant. Don’t be afraid to try something new if all your usual favorites are booked up… it’s really hard to go wrong when it comes to food on LBI. Check out some of our restaurant guides for some dinner inspo. If reservations are just impossible there are a few places that are walk-in only. Try your luck at Blue Water Cafe or Tucker’s Tavern, but make sure you get there early. If all else fails, don’t be afraid to order takeout. So many of the best restaurants on the island have mastered the art of takeout this past year so call ahead and take your dinner to go to enjoy at a scenic spot around the island.
Sunday Morning
Sunday morning means one thing, brunch! Head to the north side of the island on the LBI Shuttle to avoid the insane Beach Haven crowds and try out Birdy’s Cafe. This BYOB spot takes reservations (you know the drill- call ASAP) so your Sunday morning is totally stress free. Birdy’s dining room is straight out of a Pinterest board and their food is absolutely delightful. After brunch, head to the Viking Village Craft and Vendor Fair. This is the perfect place to find unique jewelry, handmade home decor, and countless other great pieces you won’t find anywhere else.
Sunday Afternoon
After hitting the craft fair for local wares, head to the northernmost tip of Long Beach Island to see Old Barney. While you can’t currently climb up to the top of the Barnegat Lighthouse, you can admire her beauty from below as you walk on the jetty and take adorable selfies. Spend an hour or two exploring the beach there hunting for shells and sea glass that’s washed ashore.
Sunday Night
Wrap up your day in Barnegat Light and grab an early dinner at Daymark. This bright seafood restaurant with a full bar is just steps away from the Barnegat Lighthouse. Their menu has something for everyone — vegetarians, non-seafood eaters and even the kids! We love the Daq Attack with rum, pineapple syrup, lime and absinthe. The perfect summer cocktail. Finish with their brown butter strawberry shortcake and you’ll be in heaven.
Monday Morning
Finish out your incredible weekend by going out for breakfast al fresco style. We recommend Wally’s or ScoJo’s for outside seating. The wait may be long but it’s totally worth it. Grab a coffee before heading out for breakfast to hold you over for a possible hourlong wait. Soak up the sun and savor that LBI breeze while you eat your eggs and toast al fresco. Bask in the glory of the perfect holiday weekend!