Tis the Season to Shop Small on Long Beach Island The holiday season on Long Beach Island (LBI) becomes extra magical when you trade big-box stores for the charm of locally owned boutiques. As the salty breeze gives way to cozy winter evenings, LBI’s small businesses light up with thoughtfully curated gifts, coastal-inspired décor, and island warmth. Whether you’re shopping for loved ones or treating yourself, here are some must-visit local spots for a holiday shopping spree — and why they’re worth supporting. Why Shop Small on LBI • Character & Community Long Beach Island while known for its gorgeous clean beaches, the 18 mile island is made up of a close knit community comprised of unique small businesses. • Unique, Thoughtful Gifts Local boutiques lean into coastal living and artisanal craftsmanship, offering everything from ethically sourced home goods to fashion that embodies the shoreline lifestyle. • Impact Beyond the Transaction Shopping small means supporting local families, island creatives, and businesses that reinvest in the community. ⸻ Holiday Shopping Stops: LBI Boutiques You’ll Love Here are some standout small businesses to make part of your LBI holiday itinerary: 1. 506 Surf Boutique (Five 0 Six) • Also known as Five 0 Six, this boutique is located at 506 Long Beach Blvd in Surf City. • known for its elevated beachy attire this boutique offers everything from date night dresses to staple accessories and everyday looks. • Holiday Gift Tip: This spot is ideal for stylish, seaside-inspired gifts — coverups, jewelry, or even a surf-themed stocking stuffer. 2. Salt Cottage Collective • Located in Surf City, Salt Cottage Collective is a boutique that blends coastal charm with modern trends. • In this adorable shop you can find unique women’s apparel, home decor, linens, art and more. With many of their pieces being sourced from local makers it’s the perfect place to support multiple small businesses under one roof. • Holiday Gift Tip: Perfect for picking up elegant, locally made home goods — think table linens, accent pieces, or framed coastal art that brings LBI spirit home. 3. Allie May Boutique • Located in the heart of Beach Haven, Allie May Boutique brings on trend styles to this cute beach town. • The boutique features flirty dresses, matching sets, swimwear, sweaters — pieces that feel young, breezy, and modern. • Holiday Gift Tip: A great place to find a thoughtful and wearable gift — a cozy sweater, a pretty dress for holiday gatherings, or a chic matching set for getaway weekends. 4. How To Live • With a long-standing presence on LBI, How To Live is located at 7 S Bay Avenue and also at 100 N Bay Avenue in Beach Haven. • The store is full of beachy, soulful finds — home décor, whimsical cards, original artwork by founder Sandy Gingras, non-toxic bath items, and more. • Holiday Gift Tip: Their books, cards, and decorative pieces are perfect for heartfelt, meaningful gifts — especially for someone who cherishes simplicity, gratitude, and the coastal lifestyle. 5. The Dune Market • Located in Beach Haven, at 414 N. Bay Avenue (Suite D). • Curated by island locals, The Dune Market is a treasure trove of ethically sourced goods: coastal décor, self-care, books, and home accessories. • The shop features three distinct “rooms” — The Cottage (home décor), The Apothecary (wellness), and The Bookshop. • Holiday Gift Tip: This is one of your best stops for thoughtful, well-made gifts: wellness items, beach reads, or beautifully crafted décor that feels like it was made just for LBI. ⸻ Putting It All Together: A Holiday Shopping Itinerary Here’s a sample plan for a day of holiday shopping on LBI: 1. Morning in Surf City • Begin at How You Brewin or the Local for a bite to eat and a coffee then head to 506 Surf Boutique to soak up the coastal fashion vibe • Head over to Salt Cottage Collective for home décor and artisan pieces 2. Midday Move to Beach Haven • Grab a drink or lunch in town at Buckalews or the Black Whale • Pop into Allie May Boutique for fashion finds • Walk to How To Live to explore its uplifting and beautifully designed gifts 3. Afternoon at The Dune Market • Wind down your day here, browsing the apothecary, bookshop, and home section • Pick up a few special items and wrap them in the shop’s thoughtful presentation 4. Evening Wrap-Up • Consider supporting other nearby local shops (LBI has a great directory of boutiques) • Reflect on the morning’s finds — or extend your trip to include a cozy dinner or waterfront walk ⸻ Why Shopping Small on LBI Feels Different (In a Good Way) • Personal Touch: Sales associates in local shops often live on or deeply love the island — they’re passionate about sharing the stories behind items. • Sustainability: Many of these boutiques emphasize ethical sourcing, timeless design, and local makers. • Supporting LBI’s Economy: Holiday shopping at these businesses helps fuel the island’s year-round vibrancy — not just in peak summer. ⸻ Final Thought This holiday season, give your gift-giving a soul. Beyond the usual run to big retail, shopping on Long Beach Island means finding one-of-a-kind treasures, celebrating coastal living, and supporting the heart of the island’s community. From surfwear to self-care, each of these local boutiques brings a piece of LBI’s charm into your home (or someone else’s).
