Long Beach Island, Barrier island in Ocean County, New Jersey, US.
Long Beach Island is a barrier island off the coast of Ocean County in New Jersey, running roughly 29 kilometers parallel to the mainland. Its width varies from about 300 to 800 meters, and beaches with fine sand line the ocean side while the bay side offers calm waters and docks for small boats.
The first European settlers arrived in the late 17th century and built simple shelters along the coast. Whalers used the protected bay as an anchorage, and later shipping traffic through the nearby Barnegat Inlet became an important economic factor for the region.
About a dozen small towns spread along its length, each with its own name and character, some drawing families while others offer quieter retreats. The turtle rescue stations along the southern section attract many volunteers and visitors who want to learn more about the marine life of the region.
The only road access to the island runs through Route 72, which connects to the mainland via a causeway. Especially during the summer months, delays can occur on this connection, and arriving early in the morning or leaving late reduces wait times.
The population multiplies in summer when several tens of thousands of visitors arrive mainly from the New York and Philadelphia region. Many houses remain closed outside the warm months, and entire streets then appear noticeably quieter and emptier.
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