Unique Finds to Include in Your LBI Shopping Cart
Long Beach Island’s small-town charm spills over into its unique stores, allowing you to bring a piece of your vacation back home. Whether you’re looking for a keepsake to remember your time here or something special for a loved one, the local shops offer plenty of options that reflect the coastal spirit and community vibe. This guide will explore some of the best items to include in your LBI shopping cart. These are not your standard touristy knickknacks—each item is a slice of local flavor, handmade or sourced with care.
Beach-Inspired Items
The Beach Haven area should be your first stop for a memorable LBI shopping experience. There are boutiques in this part of town specializing in every type of art, décor, or anything coastal. This place has shops that will fill your bags with pretty amazing finds for anyone with an eye for art or a desire for all things beach-related.
It features artwork by local artists, so you can take an original piece representing LBI. The collection ranges from paintings to photography, and if you like ocean views or sunset scenes, the sheer number of pieces featuring the natural beauty of LBI will fill your home.
If coastal décor is more your style, you’ll love boutiques brimming with beach-themed home accessories. They offer everything from driftwood sculptures to shell-inspired lighting fixtures. Every item here evokes the island’s tranquil, beachy vibe, perfect for adding a touch of the shore to your home or as a gift for someone else.
Local Artisan Goods
The historic Viking Village has become a haven for local artisans and craftspeople. This is the ultimate LBI shopping destination if you’re searching for something truly handmade. The small shops are stocked with handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and other unique items that reflect the island’s artistic spirit.
Handmade jewelry and coastal-inspired accessories are some of the top finds here. The shells, pearls, and sea glass in them bring lovely memories of your time on the island. There is also a range of clothing, like breezy summer dresses and handmade sandals, a great addition to beachgoers looking to wear a little bit of LBI.
Chic Clothing and Accessories
Sur La Plage is a standout of all the fashion shops in Long Beach Island. This chic boutique has stylish beachwear, jewelry, and accessories. It has an impressive range of items, from trendy and tasteful cover-ups for a day on the beach to statement necklaces for a night out or a day on the beach.
The best part? It centers on local designers. The store’s many items are made by small businesses and artisans, adding to their exclusivity and charm. Picking up a few fashion-forward pieces from here ensures that you’ll have something special that reflects the style and spirit of LBI.
Books and More
The island’s central literary hub is LBI Bookstore, which offers a great collection of novels, children’s books, and nonfiction. It usually features the New York Times Best Sellers and new releases, making it a great place to pick up a book regardless of your interest.
Bring a book to trade in (just make sure it’s in good shape), and you’ll get an extra 25% off the yellow sticker price of a used book or 10% off any new book. Easy peasy!
Handmade Candles and Soaps
LBI shops also sell hand-crafted candles and soaps. These products, which usually contain sea salt, coconut, and lavender, have fresh, natural scents, perfect for bringing the beachy smell home.
Lavinia’s Haven in North Beach Haven sells soy wax candles in glass vessels, amber jars, and tin cans. The wax melts are excellent party favors, gift ideas, or home accents.
Locally Made Treats
Charming candy stores in LBI specialize in handmade sweets. Homemade goodies are a great way to remember your trip and are simply delicious. Stutz Candy Company and Sugar Kingdom are some candy wonderlands offering all your childhood (and latest) favorites.
Saltwater taffy and creamy fudge are always good ideas for bringing home a taste of the island. Gift boxes are available, so sharing the sweet flavors of the island with friends and family is easier than ever. Artisanal chocolates are another unique find. Many are made in small batches using local ingredients.
Unique Souvenirs
Another must-visit boutique in LBI is Things A Drift. This quirky shop offers a wide variety of beach-themed souvenirs and coastal treasures. Whether you’re looking for decorative seashells, beach glass, or driftwood, you’ll find plenty of coastal décor to choose from here.
Their collection of handmade items, including wind chimes and custom signs, reflects the island’s coastal beauty. You can also pick up nautical-themed gifts, perfect for anyone who loves the sea. From seashell picture frames to ocean-inspired artwork, Things A Drift is the go-to spot for beach lovers.
LBI Branded Apparel
If you want to show off your LBI pride, Sink ‘R Swim has you covered. This shop offers LBI-branded apparel that’s perfect for a souvenir or gift. Plenty of items, from hoodies and t-shirts to caps and tote bags, display the island’s name in style.
The quality of their clothing makes Sink ‘R Swim stand out from the typical tourist shops. Their apparel is made from soft, comfortable fabrics perfect for lounging at the beach or wearing as a casual reminder of your LBI adventure.
Final Thoughts
Long Beach Island is filled with local treasures waiting to be discovered. LBI’s shopping scene reflects the island’s creative spirit and laid-back vibe, from handmade jewelry and coastal décor to artisan foods and chic clothing. Whether you are searching for a unique souvenir or the perfect gift, we hope this guide will help you find something special to bring home from your time on the island.
Explore our favorite LBI shopping spots at https://lbilocals.com/long-beach-island-shopping-guide/ and bring home a piece of the island today!