Barnegat Light is a charming coastal town located on Long Beach Island in Ocean County, New Jersey, United States. Located at the northern tip of Long Beach Island, Barnegat Light is surrounded by the Barnegat Bay to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, historic lighthouse, and maritime heritage, making it a popular destination for beachgoers, fishermen, and history enthusiasts alike.
Geography and Demographics
Barnegat Light occupies a narrow strip of land at the northern end of Long Beach Island, approximately 45 miles east of the New Jersey mainland. The town covers an area of about 1.2 square miles and has a population of around 600 residents, although this number swells considerably during the summer months due to an influx of tourists and seasonal residents. Barnegat Light is primarily a residential community, with a small commercial district catering to the needs of residents and visitors.
Major Landmarks
One of the most iconic landmarks in Barnegat Light is the Barnegat Lighthouse, also known as “Old Barney.” Built in 1859, the lighthouse stands at 172 feet tall and offers panoramic views of the surrounding coastline from its observation deck. The Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, which surrounds the lighthouse, provides opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Other notable landmarks in Barnegat Light include Viking Village, a historic fishing village that dates back to the 1920s, and the nearby Barnegat Inlet, a popular spot for fishing and boating.
Climate and Weather Overview
Average Climate Statistics
| Month | Average Temperature (F) | Average Precipitation (in) | Average Sunny Days |
| January | 36.0 | 3.56 | 14 |
| February | 38.1 | 3.07 | 15 |
| March | 44.8 | 3.78 | 17 |
| April | 53.8 | 3.21 | 19 |
| May | 63.2 | 3.14 | 20 |
| June | 72.4 | 3.43 | 22 |
| July | 78.5 | 3.80 | 24 |
| August | 77.6 | 4.11 | 24 |
| September | 71.7 | 3.42 | 22 |
| October | 60.8 | 3.27 | 20 |
| November | 51.5 | 3.24 | 17 |
| December | 41.5 | 3.54 | 14 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Barnegat Light is characterized by cold temperatures and occasional snowfall, with an average temperature of 36.0°F (2.2°C). Snow is relatively common during this month, with an average precipitation of 3.56 inches (90 mm). Despite the chilly weather, January offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as beachcombing, birdwatching, and winter fishing. Indoor options include visiting local museums, attending community events, and enjoying seafood dinners at waterfront restaurants.
February
February continues the cold weather pattern in Barnegat Light, with average temperatures rising slightly to 38.1°F (3.4°C). Snowfall remains possible, although it tends to be less frequent than in January. February is one of the wettest months of the year in Barnegat Light, with an average precipitation of 3.07 inches (78 mm). Outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and wildlife photography are still possible during this time, weather permitting. Indoor options include visiting art galleries, attending cultural events, and exploring local history museums.
March
March marks the transition to spring in Barnegat Light, with average temperatures warming up to 44.8°F (7.1°C). While snow is less common, rain showers become more frequent as the month progresses. March is a moderately wet month in Barnegat Light, with an average precipitation of 3.78 inches (96 mm). Outdoor enthusiasts may enjoy activities such as beach walks, kite flying, and early spring fishing, while indoor options include visiting botanical gardens, attending spring festivals, and exploring historic sites.
April
April brings milder temperatures and the first signs of spring to Barnegat Light, with average temperatures reaching 53.8°F (12.1°C). Spring is in full swing, and the landscape begins to come alive with blooming flowers and migrating birds. April is a moderately wet month in Barnegat Light, with an average precipitation of 3.21 inches (82 mm). Outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and birdwatching are popular choices for those looking to enjoy the beauty of the season, while indoor options include visiting art studios, attending outdoor concerts, and exploring local farmers’ markets.
May
May heralds the arrival of warmer temperatures and longer days in Barnegat Light, with average temperatures reaching 63.2°F (17.3°C). The landscape is alive with the sights and sounds of spring as flowers bloom, birds sing, and wildlife stirs. May is a moderately wet month in Barnegat Light, with an average precipitation of 3.14 inches (80 mm). Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as beach picnics, kayaking, and sailing at local marinas, while indoor options include visiting art galleries, attending live music performances, and dining al fresco at local restaurants.
June
June brings warm temperatures and sunny skies to Barnegat Light, with average temperatures reaching 72.4°F (22.4°C). The summer season is in full swing, and residents and visitors alike take advantage of the long days and pleasant weather. June is a moderately wet month in Barnegat Light, with an average precipitation of 3.43 inches (87 mm). Outdoor activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball are popular choices for those looking to beat the heat, while indoor options include visiting wineries, attending outdoor concerts, and exploring local art galleries.
July
July is typically the warmest month of the year in Barnegat Light, with average temperatures peaking at 78.5°F (25.8°C). The summer heat is tempered by refreshing ocean breezes, making it an ideal time to visit the beach. July is a moderately wet month in Barnegat Light, with an average precipitation of 3.80 inches (97 mm). Outdoor activities such as surfing, boogie boarding, and sandcastle building are popular choices for residents and visitors alike, while indoor options include visiting museums, attending summer festivals, and exploring local craft breweries.
August
August brings continued warmth and occasional rain showers to Barnegat Light, with average temperatures remaining in the mid-70s°F (23-24°C). The countryside is alive with activity as residents and visitors take advantage of the long summer days. August is a moderately wet month in Barnegat Light, with an average precipitation of 4.11 inches (104 mm). Outdoor activities such as fishing charters, whale watching tours, and sunset cruises are popular choices for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the coastline, while indoor options include visiting art galleries, attending outdoor concerts, and exploring local farmers’ markets.
September
September marks the transition to fall in Barnegat Light, with slightly cooler temperatures and decreasing daylight hours. The average temperature drops to 71.7°F (22.1°C), providing relief from the summer heat. While outdoor activities are still popular, visitors should be aware of the potential for cooler evenings and occasional rain showers. September is a moderately wet month in Barnegat Light, with an average precipitation of 3.42 inches (87 mm). Outdoor activities such as beachcombing, fishing, and birdwatching are still enjoyable, while indoor options include visiting art galleries, attending outdoor concerts, and exploring local shops and boutiques.
October
October brings cooler temperatures and clearer skies to Barnegat Light, with average temperatures dropping to 60.8°F (16.0°C). The landscape is ablaze with the colors of changing leaves, creating stunning vistas throughout the region. October is a moderately wet month in Barnegat Light, with an average precipitation of 3.27 inches (83 mm). Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as leaf-peeping, hiking, and biking amidst the autumnal splendor of the countryside, while indoor options include visiting pumpkin patches, attending fall festivals, and exploring local orchards.
November
November brings cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall to Barnegat Light, with average temperatures dropping to 51.5°F (10.8°C). The landscape is transformed once again as trees shed their leaves, and the countryside takes on a more subdued appearance. November is a moderately wet month in Barnegat Light, with an average precipitation of 3.24 inches (82 mm). Outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and photography are popular choices for those looking to enjoy the crisp autumn air, while indoor options include visiting art galleries, attending holiday markets, and cozying up by the fireplace with a good book.
December
December marks the beginning of winter in Barnegat Light, with average temperatures dropping to 41.5°F (5.3°C). While snowfall is relatively rare in this coastal town, residents and visitors can still enjoy the holiday season amidst the festive atmosphere of the community. December is a moderately wet month in Barnegat Light, with an average precipitation of 3.54 inches (90 mm). Outdoor activities such as holiday light displays, beach walks, and festive events are popular choices for families and visitors alike. Additionally, December is a great time to participate in community events and festivals celebrating the holiday season, including tree lighting ceremonies, parades, and visits with Santa Claus. Indoor activities such as holiday concerts, craft fairs, and baking classes provide additional entertainment options for visitors of all ages.