Long Beach Island in January isn't exactly the sun-drenched paradise of July, but honestly, there’s a specific kind of magic to the "off-season" that locals live for. You've got the beaches to yourself, the air is crisp enough to wake up your soul, and the silence is—well, it's pretty much absolute.
If you're planning to head over the bridge for LBI weather this weekend, you’re looking at a classic mid-winter mix that's going to require a lot more than just a light hoodie.
Kinda cold. Kinda damp. Definitely worth it if you know what to expect.
Saturday’s Coastal Dampness
Tomorrow, Saturday, January 17, is looking like the "wet" day of the pair. We’re talking about a high of 41°F and a low that doesn’t drop much further than 37°F.
Wait, that sounds mild, right?
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Don't let the numbers fool you. With humidity sitting around 68% and a 45% chance of light rain during the day, it’s going to feel like that heavy, bone-chilling dampness that only the Jersey Shore can produce. The wind will be coming out of the southwest at about 14 mph. It’s not a gale, but it’s enough to make you regret forgetting your scarf.
Basically, if you’re walking the dog in Holgate or checking the surf in Ship Bottom, expect gray skies and a bit of a drizzle. The night stays cloudy, with the rain chance dropping to about 10%.
Sunday: The Switch to Snow
Sunday, January 18, is when things get a bit more interesting for those of us who like a little drama with our coastal views.
The temperature actually drops slightly to a high of 40°F, but the real story is the 35% chance of light snow during the day. Sunday morning could look pretty surreal with flakes falling over the Atlantic.
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Humidity jumps up to a whopping 84%, and the wind shifts to the northwest at 14 mph.
By Sunday night, the sky clears out completely, but the temperature is going to plummet to 24°F. That's the real winter bite. If you're staying overnight, make sure the heat is cranked because that drop-off is going to be sharp once the sun goes down around 5:00 PM.
Tips for the LBI Winter Warrior
Look, nobody comes to the island in January for a tan. You come for the solitude.
If you’re heading out, here is how to actually enjoy LBI weather this weekend:
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- Layers are non-negotiable: Saturday is damp rain; Sunday is light snow. A waterproof shell over a heavy wool sweater is the local uniform for a reason.
- Watch the tides: If you're walking the beach on Sunday morning, the combination of light snow and high humidity can make the sand surprisingly firm and cold.
- Check the Causeway: While we aren't expecting a blizzard, that Sunday night freeze could make for some slick spots on the bridge if any of the daytime moisture lingers.
The current conditions as of Friday afternoon are sunny with a temperature of 33°F, though it feels more like 23°F thanks to a 16 mph west wind. It’s a beautiful, bright start to the weekend, but that clouds over tonight as we head into the rain-to-snow transition.
Honestly, there’s nothing quite like a quiet weekend on the island to reset your brain, even if you have to do it through three layers of Gore-Tex.
Pack a thermos of coffee, grab a good book for those Saturday afternoon sprinkles, and enjoy the peace while it lasts. The crowds will be back before you know it.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Prepare for a transition from light rain on Saturday to light snow on Sunday morning.
- Ensure outdoor pipes are protected before Sunday night’s drop to 24°F.
- Plan indoor activities for Saturday afternoon when precipitation chances are highest at 45%.