September on Long Beach Island offers something that the peak summer months simply cannot: space to breathe. Beach parking becomes readily available, restaurant reservations are easier to secure, and you can actually walk the length of the beach without navigating around dozens of umbrellas and chairs. The weather remains warm and inviting, but the frantic energy of July and August gives way to a more relaxed, contemplative atmosphere.
This is when locals reclaim their island, rediscovering favorite restaurants without long waits, enjoying peaceful morning beach walks, and reconnecting with the natural beauty that makes LBI special.
As we head into the final stretch of the 2025 summer season, businesses across the island are rolling out end-of-season specials and events that celebrate both the conclusion of another successful tourist season and the beginning of the island’s most authentic time of year.
Local Summer Exclusives
The best perks of Local Summer: cars and dogs are welcome on the beach in the off season!
Secure a Beach Buggy permit and drive your car right onto the beach at one of the designated entry points. No more lugging things around! Drive up with your fishing gear, camera equipment or all the kids beach toys. Check out the Vehicle Beach Access Guide for more information.
After October 1st, every beach is a dog beach! Bring along the pup for a walk and a swim. Dogs must be leashed and please clean up after them!
Local Summer and Fall Events in LBI
September 6
3rd Annual Cardboard Boat Regatta
From 10:00 am to 11:00 am, cardboard boats will be launched from the bay beach in Bayview Park to race around the buoy and return to the beach. The first boat back, in their heat, is the winner!
Local’s Summer Concert
The first ever Local’s Summer Fire Pit Concert at 68th Street Beach, featuring The Discoteks! Starts at 6:00 pm.
September 13
Live music, a beer garden, food and merchant vendors and fireworks at dusk to celebrate 100 years! Head to Ship Bottom’s boat ramp from 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
September 26
Comedy Night at Surflight Theater
A night of laughter with Headliner Michael Sommerville and Vince Valentine. Starting at 7:30 pm.
October 4 & 5
This beloved culinary festival gathers chowder enthusiasts, local restaurants, and food lovers for a day of taste-testing, entertainment, and community fun in the Queen City. Located behind Bay Village. Saturday is free, and Sunday is ticketed.
LBI Sea Glass and Art Festival
Head to Things A Drift in Ship Bottom for handmade genuine sea glass jewelry, original coastal watercolors and artwork, handmade cards, curiosities, and nautical home décor created by local artists. Take your discoveries along for sea glass, fossil, and beach find identification. Learn at the sea glass and fossil lectures. Plus, get a chance to win recognition at the Best of the Best Sea Glass, Fossil & Artifact, and Wrack Line Sculpture Contests!
October 10 & 11
11th Annual LBI FLY Invitational Kite Festival
The skies above Ship Bottom beaches (18th-27th street) will be filled with some of the largest and most unique kites from all over the country, even one all the way in from Germany! A beautiful display will take place on the 11th, where you can join the Night Fly on 68th street beach at 6:30pm. Friday’s event is from 12-5 and Saturday is from 10-4. Hosted in partnership with the Passing Wind Kite Club and South Jersey Kite Flyers.
October 11
Another incredible event with the Jetty Rock Foundation, Shellabration spotlights oysters and their role in clean water and keeping our coastal ecosystem healthy. Enjoy coastal fare, live music, craft beer and cocktails, kids activities and a shucking contest! All proceeds will benefit the Jetty Rock Foundation’s Oyster Recycling Programs and related initiatives. Located at 6805 Long Beach Blvd in Brant Beach from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.
October 12
53rd Annual LBI 18-Mile Run and 12K
The St. Francis Community Center is hosting a run/walk with scenic coastal views and a well-supported race course for a great cause!
The tourists may be heading home, but for those who know and love LBI, the best season is just beginning. Welcome to Local’s Summer!
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