Long Beach Island Named One Of Top Ten Family Beaches in U.S.A.

Long Beach Island has been named one of the best places in the United States to go to for a classic family beach vacation, according to an area travel publication.

The island was one of 10 beaches selected in no particular order to go to for your summer vacation, according to a story in Family Vacation Critic, from the Ewing-based TripAdvisory subsidiary The Independent Traveler.

"These beaches, listed in no particular order, deliver just that: a chance for everyone to relax, with the convenience of calm, lifeguard-protected waters; restrooms/showers; and nearby attractions," the article states. "Our favorite beaches for kids are also within close proximity of accommodations -- from motels to vacation rentals -- and great restaurants."

The article noted the island's 18 miles of shoreline for sandcastle building and boogie boarding, with lifeguards patrolling many areas. The main highlight for children is Fantasy Island Amusement Park in Beach Haven, which has a Ferris wheel, funnel cakes, free concerts and magic shows.

The iconic Surflight Theatre and the ShowPlace Ice Cream Parlour are slated to reopen this season, after a two-year absence.

Here are the other beaches on the list:

• Jones Beach State Park, Wantagh, N.Y.

• Ponce Inlet, Ponce Inlet, Fla.

• Rehoboth Beach, Rehoboth Beach, Del.

• Coronado Beach, Coronado, Calif.

• Balboa Beach, Newport Beach, Calif.

• North Beach Park, Racine, Wis. (Lake Michigan)

• Coast Guard Beach, Eastham, Mass.

• Weirs Beach, Weirs Beach, N.H. (Lake Winnipesaukee)

• Seaside Beach, Seaside, Ore.

Image: Patricia A. Miller