the Long Beach
Barrier Island

A Welcoming Habitat for Nature Lovers and Those in Search of a ‘Blue Mind’

The Blue Mind

A ‘Blue Mind’ is the term that neuroscientists use to describe the mildly meditative state which people experience when they are in or near a body of water. It was coined by Dr. Wallace J. Nichols, a marine biologist and author in his 2014 book, Blue Mind.

A ‘blue mind’ is characterized by calm, peace, unity, and a sense of general happiness and satisfaction with life in the moment. It’s a relaxed and serene mindset that has a profoundly positive effect on our mood and measurable benefits for our mental and emotional wellbeing.

Scientific evidence suggests that being around water “sets our minds and bodies at ease, boosts innovative problem solving, enhances health, and increases longevity.”

The ‘blue mind’ theory helps explain why being at the water’s edge is where we humans best relax, replenish, and rejuvenate. It also illustrates how the power of nature can help to heal and make us happier.

For more information about the Blue Mind Movement, check out Dr. Wallace J. Nichols’ interview with Andrea Samadi on The Neuroscience Meets Social and Emotional Learning Podcast.

A blue marble serves as a powerful symbol of the Blue Mind Movement because it embodies the interconnectedness of all life on Earth and the importance of water for human well-being, both physically and mentally.

The Blue Mind Movement encourages the sharing of blue marbles to remind everyone of their responsibility to care for themselves and for Planet Earth.

free walking tours of long beach, nY

The Allegria Hotel in Long Beach, the barrier island’s premier resort, has proudly made arrangements for Joel to provide its hotel guests with a complimentary walking tour of Long Beach during the summer and fall seasons.

Participants should be physically fit for a two (2) hour walk on flat surfaces; should dress appropriately; and should protect themselves from the sun with a hat, sunscreen, and lots of water.

Joel’s walking tours are primarily educational in purpose and, as such, are suitable for families with school-age children.

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giving back to the beach community

Joel requests that tour participants consider making a cash donation at the end of his free tour which will be forwarded in equal amounts to two (2) local charities that support the under-privileged in our community—the Long Beach Soup Kitchen and the Kiwanis Club of Long Beach.

We encourage all visitors to the Long Beach Barrier Island to take advantage of these complimentary walking tours as a way to learn more about our barrier island’s vibrant ecosystem, its rich history, and the many things to see and do here while helping us to “pay it forward” by raising funds for those less fortunate.

Free Audiovisual Program of the Long Beach Barrier Island

Joel’s 60-minute audiovisual show consists of a memorable display of his photographs of the Long Beach Barrier Island, as well as informative video footage of the devastating impacts which 9-11 and Superstorm Sandy had on this small, close-knit beach community.

If your school, workplace, professional, or charitable organization is interested in arranging a private showing of Joel’s audiovisual presentation, please contact us at: longbeachbarrierislandny@gmail.com

Below is an example from Joel’s audiovisual presentation, highlighting the imagery and educational insights that participants will gain through the program.

“American Oystercatchers are stunningly beautiful shore birds with bright yellow eyes surrounded by a distinct, bold red eye ring, which stands out against their black head and long, bright orange bill. They are frequently seen on the Long Beach barrier island, where they migrate annually from the Galápagos Islands off of Peru.”

photos of the barrier island

See a gallery of Joel’s photographs of the various communities located on the Long Beach Barrier Island.

View All Photos

Local Events of Interest

To search for live music, local fundraisers, community events, and other happenings on our barrier island, please visit the Long Beach Social Scene on Facebook.

Long Beach Social Scene

Photo courtesy of Liz Degen Photography

about the host

Joel Greenberg

Joel has been a resident of the Long Beach barrier island for the past 16 years. During that time, he has explored “just about every inch” of the island–be it by foot, bicycle, or boat. While doing so, he has pursued his hobby and photographed captivating images that reflect both the natural beauty and vibrant wildlife found here as well as the magnificent homes and former hotels that were built at the turn of the 20th century, establishing the Long Beach barrier island as a world-class resort for the rich and famous in the early 1900’s.

book a walking tour

Registration is available through calling the front desk at the Allegria Hotel at 516-992-3711 to have your name added to the list.

Get Started

View the presentation

To arrange a private showing of Joel’s audiovisual presentation, contact him at: longbeachbarrierislandny@gmail.com