Rainy Day Guide to LBI
Rain on LBI may be inevitable, but that doesn’t have to ruin your trip. There’s plenty to see and do here to keep you (and the kids) busy during a passing storm. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite rainy day activities on LBI to keep the fun going! And remember, while the beach may be a wash, keep your eye out for a rainbow!
Arcades
While the rain is coming down outside it’s time to make it rain tickets! LBI is home to some great arcades up and down the island that are sure to be home to your favorite classic arcade games. Try out your luck at the Fantasy Island arcade and maybe even hop on some rides when the weather clears. If the crowds at Fantasy Island aren’t your thing you can try out Our Endless Summer or the arcade at Hartland Golf. Save up your tickets or tokens until the next rainy day or blow them all on the best prize for your buck- we know you’ve been eyeing those whoopie cushions.
Shopping
There’s plenty of amazing places to shop on the island, and definitely enough shops and boutiques to keep you busy for the day! For clothes, we recommend trying out Sink r’ Swim. Their men’s shop is loaded with tons of comfy and stylish beach clothes to keep any man looking LBI chic. Then, stop by next door to their newly opened women’s shop to be outfitted in head to toe beach garb and gear you won’t find anywhere else. For the kids, we recommend exploring Sugar Kingdom. There’s over 2,500 different candy varieties inside so it's guaranteed to keep the kids busy. After the candy store, take an umbrella and walk over to The Haymarket toy and hobby shop to grab a new game or puzzle to play!
Escape Room
Escape the rain at LBI’s escape room, Escape LBI. With three different rooms and levels, this is the perfect activity to wait out that summer shower. Try your luck in the “Raven Woods” room for a moderately difficult challenge and some creepy vibes. You’ll have just 60 minutes to figure out the riddles and escape! It’s fun for the whole family whether you make it out in time or not!
Breweries
The Ocean County area is home to some great local breweries both on and off LBI. While you might not find yourself at one of the amazing local breweries on a typical day, a rainy day calls for some exploring of these local spots. Right in Beach Haven you’ll find Ship Bottom Brewery. While on a sunny day they offer an outdoor beer garden, the rain may force you to take your tastings indoors. They have a wide variety of IPAs and some crazy flavors always on rotation. If you’re lucky you might even get a taste of their “Chegg” Ludacris Sauce Beer. Travel just off the island for a trip to Manafirkin Brewery. Their dog-friendly tap room is the perfect place to wait out a storm. We love grabbing La Jarochita or a pretzel platter from Philly Pretzel Factory next door to bring while we sip our stouts.
Bowling
Get out your bowling shoes and grab a six pack to hit up Thunderbird Lanes! Bowling is one of the best rainy day activities in our book; it’s low effort, you’re shielded from the elements, and BYOB is encouraged. Even if you’re not coming equipped with your own ball and shoes you’re guaranteed to have a great time. Kill a few hours here and then make your way over to one of Manahawkin’s restaurants for dinner while you’re off the island.
Antique Shopping
While it’s not something you would probably think to do otherwise, rainy days on LBI are perfect for antique shopping. Ship Bottom Antiques is the perfect place to pick up some original pieces you won’t find anywhere else including lots of LBI nostalgia pieces. There’s also plenty of beachy decor and collectables here. We could seriously spend all day just looking around. Another place we love checking out is Garden State Surf and Art. They specialize in reclaimed wood and wooden art. You’ll also find antiques, local artwork, and jewelry. Just driving by you’ll be drawn into the shop because you can just tell how many hidden treasures there are here.