Barnegat, New Jersey: 10,000 Surprising Facts

Barnegat, New Jersey is a township in Ocean County with a population of 20,534 as of the 2020 census. The township is named after Barnegat Bay, which forms its eastern border. Barnegat is home to several beaches, including Island Beach State Park, which is one of the most popular beaches in New Jersey.

History

The Lenape Native Americans were the first inhabitants of the Barnegat area. They called the area "Paupack," which means "where the waters meet." In the 17th century, Dutch and English settlers arrived in the area. The township was officially incorporated in 1873.

Geography

Barnegat is located in the southern part of Ocean County, on the Atlantic coast. The township is bordered by Barnegat Bay to the east, Toms River to the south, Lacey Township to the west, and Berkeley Township to the north. Barnegat has a total area of 32.4 square miles, of which 21.7 square miles is land and 10.7 square miles is water.

Climate

Barnegat has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The average temperature in July is 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average temperature in January is 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The township receives an average of 46 inches of precipitation per year.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, the population of Barnegat was 20,534. The township is home to a diverse population, with 83.2% of residents identifying as White, 6.2% as Black or African American, 5.2% as Asian, 0.3% as Native American, and 0.1% as Pacific Islander. 2.4% of residents identify as two or more races, and 22.4% of residents identify as Hispanic or Latino.

Government

Barnegat is governed by a mayor and five council members. The mayor and council members are elected to four-year terms. The township is also home to a number of other elected officials, including the township clerk, the township treasurer, and the township attorney.

Economy

The economy of Barnegat is primarily based on tourism and retail. The township is home to several beaches, including Island Beach State Park, which is one of the most popular beaches in New Jersey. Barnegat is also home to a number of shopping centers and restaurants.

Education

Barnegat is served by the Barnegat Township School District. The school district operates six elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. The high school, Barnegat High School, has an enrollment of over 1,500 students.

Culture

Barnegat is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Barnegat Historical Society and Museum, the Barnegat Lighthouse, and the Barnegat Branch of the Ocean County Library. The township also hosts a number of annual events, including the Barnegat Seafood Festival and the Barnegat Bay Festival of Lights.

Transportation

Barnegat is accessible by road, rail, and air. The township is located on the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike. Barnegat is also served by the NJ Transit Southern Railroad, which provides service to New York City and Philadelphia. The township is also home to the Barnegat Airport, which is a general aviation airport.

Tourism

Barnegat is a popular tourist destination, with over 1 million visitors each year. The township is home to several beaches, including Island Beach State Park, which is one of the most popular beaches in New Jersey. Barnegat is also home to a number of shopping centers and restaurants.

Things to do in Barnegat

There are many things to do in Barnegat, including:

• Visit Island Beach State Park
• Go for a swim in the ocean
• Sunbathe on the beach
• Build a sandcastle
• Surf
• Go fishing
• Boating
• Kayaking
• Paddleboarding
• Jet skiing
• Parasailing
• Take a walk or bike ride along the beach
• Visit the Barnegat Historical Society and Museum
• Visit the Barnegat Lighthouse
• Visit the Barnegat Branch of the Ocean County Library
• Attend the Barnegat Seafood Festival
• Attend the Barnegat Bay Festival of Lights

Where to eat in Barnegat

There are many great places to eat in Barnegat, including:

• The Black Whale Bar & Grill
• The Lobster Shanty
• The Clam Shack
• The Sea Horse Restaurant
• The Driftwood Cafe
• The Sand Bar
• The Sunset Grill
• The Blue Claw Seafood Restaurant
• The Ocean View Restaurant
• The Viking Restaurant
• The Windward Tavern

Where to stay in Barnegat

There are many great places to stay in Barnegat, including:

• The Sea Horse Motel
• The Driftwood Motel
• The Sand Bar Motel
• The Sunset Motel
• The Blue Claw Motel
• The Ocean View Motel
• The Viking Motel
• The Windward Motel
• The Barnegat Inn
• The Lighthouse Inn
• The Bayview Hotel

Conclusion

Barnegat, New Jersey is a great place to live, work, and play. The township offers a wide variety of attractions, including beaches, parks, shopping centers, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Barnegat is also a great place to raise a family, with excellent schools and a low crime rate.