Sun, Sand, and Songs: Beach Concerts in LBI

          Located in New Jersey, Long Beach Island, or LBI, is an 18-milelong island filled with different townships. Known as the perfect beach getaway, over 100,000 people visit LBI during the summer months. The island offers many activities to keep tourists and residents entertained.

          Each week, a variety of cover bands perform a concert on the beach, offering a wide range of music genres that cater to all tastes. Even if the band is playing music that doesn’t fit your taste, the atmosphere alone makes shows worth while. People drive in from all over the island, sail in and dock at the bay, or walk with chairs from their houses to come to enjoy the concerts. Occasionally, my family will sail in and enjoy the music from the water, surrounded by 50 other boats. Some people have meals while others meet up with friends. On other days, bringing chairs and setting up camp on the beaches under the starry skies makes it feel like you are in paradise.

          One particular Friday night was truly unforgettable. As the sun was setting and the ocean went dark under the stars, small bonfires cast a warm light in the dark night, providing warmth and the perfect place to make s’mores. Although I knew almost no one else on the beach, as soon as the music started to play, I felt so connected to everyone around me. Everyone left the beach with more friends and a better sense of community. Little did we know that they were sharing the island with none other than Taylor Swift, Lana Del Rey, and many more A-List celebrities, who were in LBI to attend a wedding! As the night went on, everyone was standing up in front of the stage, dancing, and singing along to well-known beats.

          The best part of these concerts is that they are free, providing a fantastic opportunity for locals and tourists alike to enjoy music without having to pay a hefty cost.

          If you find yourself on Long Beach Island during the summer months, don’t miss the chance to experience the island’s concerts. Whether you’re dancing by a bonfire, swaying on a boat, or relaxing in your beach chair in a park, the sounds of LBI will surely leave you with memories that last a lifetime. And who knows, you might even run into Taylor Swift along the way.