TranslateOverview
Longport is a small, residential borough at the southern tip of Absecon Island, in Atlantic County, New Jersey. Flanked by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and Great Egg Harbor Bay to the west, it shares the island with Margate City, Ventnor City, and Atlantic City, yet feels worlds apart from the casino district in tone and character.
With a permanent population numbering only in the hundreds, Longport swells modestly during summer as families return to seasonal homes and visitors seek out its notably uncrowded beaches. There are no boardwalk amusements or large-scale tourist attractions here — the appeal is precisely that restraint: clean sand, calm residential streets, and easy access to the bay.
The borough has long attracted a mix of longtime shore families and day-trippers looking to escape the crowds of neighboring beaches. Its compact size means most of what you need — beach access, a handful of restaurants, a small marina — is within easy walking or cycling distance.
Before You Go
Longport is a domestic US destination, so no visa or passport is required for US citizens. International visitors should check TravelerPulse's Visas section and consult the US Customs and Border Protection website for current entry requirements.
Seasonal considerations
- Summer (late June–Labor Day): Peak season. Beach badges are required for access to the ocean beach; verify current badge fees and purchase locations with the Borough of Longport directly or at the beach tag offices.
- Shoulder seasons (May–June, September–October): Mild weather, far fewer crowds, and many local restaurants still open — an excellent window for a relaxed visit.
- Off-season (November–April): Most seasonal businesses close. The borough is extremely quiet; verify which services remain open before traveling.
Longport has very limited lodging inventory. Booking accommodations well in advance — particularly for July and August weekends — is strongly advised. Many visitors rent a house or cottage for a week; check major vacation rental platforms for availability.
Getting There
By air
The closest major airport is Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), roughly 60–70 miles northwest of Longport. Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) in Egg Harbor Township is closer — approximately 15–20 miles — and serves a more limited range of carriers and routes. Verify current airline service to ACY before planning around it.
By car
Most visitors arrive by car. From Philadelphia, take the Atlantic City Expressway east and then follow local routes south through Atlantic City and Margate onto Longport. Travel times vary considerably with summer shore traffic, particularly on weekend afternoons; plan accordingly. Parking in Longport is predominantly residential-street parking; rules and any permit requirements should be verified with the borough.
By transit
NJ Transit operates rail service to Atlantic City from Philadelphia (the Atlantic City Line). From the Atlantic City rail terminal, Longport is not directly served by rail; onward travel would require a rideshare, taxi, or local bus. Verify current NJ Transit bus routes serving the Absecon Island communities at njtransit.com.
Getting Around
Longport is small enough that walking and cycling are the most practical ways to get around once you arrive. The flat terrain makes cycling genuinely easy, and a bike path connects portions of Absecon Island, allowing you to ride into Margate and beyond.
Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) operate in the area, though availability can be limited late at night or during high-traffic summer periods — plan for potential wait times. Taxis serving the Atlantic City area can also reach Longport.
If you plan to explore Atlantic City or Margate regularly, having a car is the most flexible option, though parking in Atlantic City itself warrants its own research.
Things to See & Do
Beaches
Longport's ocean beach is the primary draw. It is quieter and less commercialized than beaches further north on the island. Beach badges (seasonal access tags) are required during the summer season — verify current requirements and purchase locations with the borough before arrival.
Bay and water activities
The Great Egg Harbor Bay side of the borough offers calm water suitable for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. A small marina serves local boaters. Equipment rentals, if available, should be verified locally as offerings change season to season.
Cycling the island
A multi-use path runs along portions of Absecon Island, making it feasible to cycle from Longport through Margate and Ventnor. It is a pleasant way to explore the distinct character of each community.
Lucy the Elephant (nearby, Margate)
Just a short distance north in Margate, Lucy the Elephant is a National Historic Landmark — a six-story elephant-shaped building constructed in 1881. Well worth a visit; verify current hours and admission fees directly with the site.
Day trip to Atlantic City
The casinos, boardwalk, restaurants, and entertainment venues of Atlantic City are a short drive or ride north. Longport works well as a quieter base from which to make selective visits.
Food & Drink
Longport has a small but respectable dining scene concentrated along its main commercial stretch. Expect casual seafood, American bar-and-grill fare, and a handful of spots suited to families. The selection is intentionally limited for a borough of this size — visitors seeking a wide range of cuisine will find more options in Margate or Atlantic City.
Several restaurants are seasonal and may only operate from spring through early fall. It is worth checking current operating status before making a specific place central to your plans. Margate, immediately to the north, has a noticeably broader restaurant selection and is easily reached on foot or by bike.
Grocery options are limited within the borough itself. For a full shop, residents and visitors typically travel to stores in nearby communities — verify current options before a self-catering stay.
Practical Information
Emergency services
For any emergency in the United States, dial 911. The Longport Police Department serves the borough; non-emergency contact information can be found on the borough's official website.
Borough information
The Borough of Longport maintains an official website with information on beach badges, parking, and local ordinances. Verify the URL independently, as municipal web addresses change.
Connectivity
Cellular coverage from major US carriers is generally reliable. Most accommodations offer Wi-Fi; verify with your specific rental or lodging.
Medical
There are no hospitals within Longport itself. AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center in Atlantic City is the nearest major hospital. Verify the current address and services before travel.
Sun and weather
The Jersey Shore sun can be intense in summer. Sunscreen, hats, and hydration are practical necessities. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible from June through August; check forecasts daily during your stay.
Safety
Longport is generally regarded as a low-crime, quiet residential community. Standard common-sense precautions apply: do not leave valuables visible in parked cars, secure your accommodation, and be aware of your surroundings.
Ocean swimming carries inherent risks. Observe posted flags indicating water conditions, swim near lifeguarded areas when possible, and be mindful of rip currents — a hazard on any Jersey Shore beach. Lifeguard schedules are seasonal and cover limited hours; verify locally.
Boating and water activity participants should wear appropriate personal flotation devices and check weather and bay conditions before heading out.
