Rating LBI Bars
The controversial blogs keep coming as we get into an OFFICIAL rating of LBI bars Everything that I say and write is bible so if you have a problem with it or don’t agree… go scratch. Now, I haven’t been to every bar on LBI because getting an uber up and down the island in the late hours of the evening is nearly impossible.
Bird & Betty’s - 8.6/10
We have to start with what has become the most popular bar on the Island, Bird & Betty’s. Birds is everything you expect and more from a jersey shore bar, a sprawling deck with couches, fire pits, and a stunning view of the barnegat bay. If you haven’t been here at sunset, you most definitely live under a rock as it’s sure to make you feel some type of way. Once 12 AM hits you must head inside to the two floor dance floor/concert venue room that is electric. Birds always has a stellar band and a great energy in this room that’s guaranteed to deliver. My only problem with Birds is the line is always insurmountable. Especially on holiday weekends if you don’t arrive to this bar before 8 PM you have a better chance of summiting Mt. Everest. So, for that reason I need to take some points off once you’re in it’s the best bar on the island.
The Marlin - 6.8/10
When I was a younger adult The Marlin used to be my favorite bar on the Island. I fell in love in that bar pretty much every time I went. Regardless of my love life there’s really only one reason to go to and that’s if you’re a child. They bring a great crowd of 20-24 so if that’s your demo you’re going to have a great time.
The Shell - 7.4/10
Thunder Thursday is iconic but almost too iconic. $1 Green Tea Shots and $1 Coors Lights is a dangerous deal that needs to be talked about because there’s pros and cons that people need to be aware of. Pros: You can get extremely fucked up for $7 and that’s not something you see these days. In this economy??? Credit to The Shell for staying true to this deal and giving the people what they want. Cons: it’s almost impossible to get to the bar. There will almost always be a huddle three people deep around both the tiki bar and the beach bar and it’s just not an enjoyable experience. My favorite time to come here is around 3-5 PM and get a little buzzed before dinner. Great vibes.
Hudson House - 8.2/10
The quintessential dive bar: low lighting, pool table, darts, PUNCHING BAG GAME, and it’s cash only. This timeless classic is amongst the oldest buildings still standing on LBI and it most definitely isn’t going anywhere. In recent years, this quiet speakeasy has become very popular amongst vacationers which is disappointing as I know there are many regular local patrons that want to keep this unsuspecting bar on 18th street a hidden gem.
Joe Pops - 8.6/10
I might catch some flack for this rating being too low but trust me when I say this, I love Joe Pops. Going to this bar to see The Benjamins or The Nerds is a guaranteed good time with a large dance floor that has plenty of space for your hardcore dancers and the men who just stand there idle with no interest in moving their body whatsoever. I’ve always been able to get a drink no problem and the bathrooms are big enough to churn out inebriated individual after inebriated individual with ease. Impossible to get in here on holiday weekends.
The Porthole Cafe - 1.2/10
Carpet floors.
The Gateway - 5.1/10
If bedazzled jeans are your thing, this is the bar for you. Inside the Gateway is kinda sad. I feel like it’s a breeding ground for recently divorced men and women who smoke cigs and are currently unemployed. The bar itself is a huge space and there’s a liquor store inside which I have frequented many times, they have a ton of variety.
Surf City Hotel
I’ve never been but I’ve heard that it’s very fun. This would be a great option for people on the north end that can’t find an uber to ship bottom or beach haven but still want to have a fun night.
