Things To Do
in Barnegat
Barnegat is a small coastal town in Ocean County, New Jersey, perched on the edge of Barnegat Bay just inland from the Jersey Shore. It blends maritime heritage with easy access to nature, offering quiet beaches, marsh trails, and lighthouse views. Visitors come for fishing, boating, wildlife watching, and the relaxed shore-town vibe that characterizes the Jersey coast.
A mix of year-round residents and seasonal visitors creates a friendly, laid-back ambiance along Route 9 and the bay.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of historic Barnegat. Enjoy a fresh breakfast at a local café, where you can savor homemade pastries and strong coffee. Visit the Barnegat Lighthouse State Park to take in stunning views of the bay and climb the iconic lighthouse for a panoramic perspective.
Afterward, head to the Barnegat Light Museum to learn about the town’s maritime history and the significance of the lighthouse. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the nearby park, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Spend some time at the beach, relaxing on the sand or exploring the tidal pools at low tide.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the waves. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach, listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean. Finish the night with a visit to the local ice cream parlor for a sweet treat.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for a day of fun in the sun. Head to Long Beach Island, where you can rent paddleboards or kayaks to explore the tranquil waters. Enjoy the cool morning breeze while you take in the scenic beauty of the coastline.
After your water sports session, relax on the beach with a good book or take a dip in the ocean to cool off. For lunch, try a beachside café offering fresh salads and sandwiches, perfect for a day by the sea. Afterward, engage in some beach volleyball or join a local yoga class on the sand.
As evening approaches, return to Barnegat and freshen up before heading out to a local seafood shack for dinner. Savor the catch of the day while seated outside to enjoy the warm summer breeze. Cap off the evening with a sunset boat tour, where you can marvel at the vibrant colors of the sky reflecting on the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-60 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3.50-4.50 |
| 🏨One-night hotel stay | $100-220 |
| 🅿️Beach parking/permit | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible bays and beaches with scenic marsh views
- Strong fishing, boating, and wildlife watching opportunities
- Relaxed, family-friendly coastal vibe with easier crowds than larger shore towns
- Limited nightlife and seasonal business closures
- Public transit is sparse; car travel is often necessary
- Weather and storms can disrupt coastal activities
Places to Visit in Barnegat
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic lighthouse with bay and marsh views, ideal for sunrise and long-exposure silhouettes.
Wide waterway with boats and dramatic sunsets over the inlet; a staple for landscape photography.
Marsh grasses, boats, and reflective water scenes along the shoreline.
Open dunes and coastal grasses provide moody backdrops at golden hour.
Food in Barnegat
Barnegat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chilled or warm lobster meat on a soft roll, a seaside staple often served with fries or coleslaw.
Must-Try!
NJ-style crab cakes on a bun with tartar or remoulade, commonly featuring Old Bay seasoning.
Creamy clam chowder highlighting local clams, found in many coastal diners.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, seafood, and baked goods from local growers and fishers.
Seasonal pop-up stalls along the waterfront offering quick seafood bites and street fare.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Keep distance from wildlife, dispose of trash properly, and follow local beach rules.
Evenings are relaxed; keep noise down in residential areas and respect neighbors.
Safety
Tipping in Barnegat
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 15-20% in restaurants; $1-2 per drink at bars; tip housekeeping in hotels if service is good.
Credit and debit cards widely accepted; cash is handy for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and migratory bird activity; great for nature walks and early beach visits.
Warm, humid days with peak beach crowds; expect long days, water activities and seasonal events.
Shoulder season with cooler seas and great fishing; quieter beaches and scenic marsh lights.
Cold and windy with limited services; coastal storms possible but coastal scenery can be starkly beautiful.
Barnegat at Night
Hiking in Barnegat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Paved and natural surface trails through coastal forest and marshland near Toms River.
Boardwalks and trails winding through marshes and wetlands along the coast.
Wooded trails and scenic overlooks a short drive inland offering forested hikes.
Airports
How to reach Barnegat by plane.
Major regional airport about 50-60 miles north, with connections to several major hubs; drive via I-195 and Garden State Parkway.
Major international airport about 70-80 miles west; access via I-95 and NJ Turnpike.
Large international hub about 85-95 miles north; best for international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families who visit seasonally or live year-round in the area.
A sizable portion of the population are retirees seeking a quieter coastal lifestyle.
Summer tourists who fill hotels, rentals, and beachfront businesses during peak times.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Inshore and bay fishing is popular along Barnegat Bay and the inlet.
Numerous marinas and launches support casual and sport boating.
Seasonal coastal sports along the shore and beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Barnegat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for veggie burgers, salads, grain bowls, and seasonal vegetables; most diners can accommodate substitutions or offer a veggie plate.