Best Birding Spots in New Jersey 2026
Discover top birding locations at the Jersey Shore. From shorebird migrations at Cape May to osprey nesting sites, find world-class bird watching.
Why Bird at the Jersey Shore?
New Jersey sits on the Atlantic Flyway, making it one of the best birding destinations on the East Coast. Cape May is considered one of the top birding spots in North America.
- 400+ species — More species than most states
- Migration hotspot — Spring and fall bring massive migrations
- Diverse habitats — Beaches, marshes, forests, and wetlands
- Free access — Many top spots are free to visit
- Expert programs — Cape May Bird Observatory offers world-class programs
Cape May
The birding capital of North America with world-famous fall hawk migration and shorebird spectacles.
World-renowned birding destination with fall hawk migration and educational programs.
- Fall hawk watch
- Expert-led walks
- Nature store
- Birding programs
State park with hawk watch platform, lighthouse, and diverse habitats.
- Hawk watch platform
- Bunker pond
- Beach access
- Lighthouse views
Coastal wetlands and fields with excellent shorebird and waterfowl viewing.
- Shorebirds
- Waterfowl
- Easy walking
- Year-round access
Higbee Beach WMA
Famous for fall songbird migration with diverse habitats and beach access.
- Fall warblers
- Morning flights
- Beach access
- Diverse habitats
Atlantic County
Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge and diverse wetland habitats near Atlantic City.
National wildlife refuge with 8-mile wildlife drive and exceptional wetlands.
- 8-mile wildlife drive
- Observation towers
- Shorebirds & waders
- Visitor center
Tuckahoe WMA
Tuckahoe
Large wildlife area with pine forests, wetlands, and diverse bird species.
- Pine barrens species
- Wetland birds
- Quiet trails
- Large preserve
Ocean County
Island Beach State Park, Barnegat Lighthouse, and pristine barrier island habitats.
Pristine barrier island with osprey nesting, piping plovers, and diverse shorebirds.
- Osprey platforms
- Piping plovers
- Beach habitats
- Maritime forest
State park with jetty birding, sea ducks, and wintering harlequin ducks.
- Jetty birding
- Harlequin ducks
- Sea ducks
- Lighthouse views
Great Bay Boulevard WMA
Tuckerton
Road through salt marsh with excellent shorebirds and wading birds.
- Drive-through marsh
- Wading birds
- Shorebirds
- Scenic drive
Monmouth County
Sandy Hook and riverside habitats in the northern shore region.
Sandy Hook
Highlands
Barrier beach with diverse habitats, hawk migration, and rare sightings.
- Diverse habitats
- Fall migration
- Rare sightings
- Beach access
Shark River Park
Neptune
Riverside park with woodland and wetland birds along the Shark River.
- River habitat
- Woodland birds
- Easy trails
- Year-round access
Birding Tips
Go Early
Birds are most active at dawn. Early morning offers the best sightings and photography light.
Bring Binoculars
8x42 binoculars are ideal. Compact models work for casual birding; larger ones for serious watchers.
Download Merlin
The free Merlin Bird ID app helps identify birds by sight and sound. Works offline.
Stay Still
Birds are wary of movement. Find a spot and stay quiet. They will often come closer.
Check eBird
eBird.org shows recent sightings. See what birds are being spotted at your destination.
Dress Neutrally
Avoid bright colors. Earth tones help you blend in and get closer to birds.
Essential Birding Gear
Quality optics make all the difference. These binoculars and accessories will enhance your birding experience.
Binoculars (8x42)
8x42 is the sweet spot for birding. Waterproof essential for shore.
Spotting Scope
For distant shorebirds and waterfowl. 20-60x zoom.
Field Guide
Sibley or Peterson guides are gold standards.
Photography/Birding Vest
Pockets for field guide, snacks, and accessories.
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FAQ
When is the best time for bird watching in New Jersey?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-November) migrations bring the most species. Cape May's fall hawk watch peaks in September-October. Shorebirds peak in May during horseshoe crab spawning.
What birds can I see at the Jersey Shore?
Over 400 species have been recorded. Common sightings include ospreys, herons, egrets, sandpipers, plovers, hawks, and warblers. Rarities like peregrine falcons and bald eagles are regularly spotted.
Where is the best birding at Cape May?
Cape May Point State Park has the hawk watch platform and lighthouse. The Meadows offer shorebirds. Higbee Beach is famous for fall songbird migrations. The Nature Center has trails and programs.
Do I need binoculars for bird watching?
Yes, 8x42 or 10x42 binoculars are essential. A spotting scope helps for distant shorebirds. Many birders also carry field guides and use birding apps like Merlin.
Are there guided birding tours in New Jersey?
Yes, Cape May Bird Observatory and NJ Audubon offer guided walks and programs. Many locations have self-guided trails with interpretive signs. Local bird clubs host regular field trips.
What is the horseshoe crab migration?
Every May, horseshoe crabs spawn on Delaware Bay beaches. Shorebirds like red knots migrate from South America to feast on the eggs. It is one of nature's great spectacles.
Can I bird watch year-round at the Jersey Shore?
Yes, different seasons bring different species. Winter brings waterfowl and northern visitors. Spring and fall have migrations. Summer features nesting birds like ospreys and terns.
What should I wear for bird watching?
Wear neutral colors (no bright colors that scare birds), comfortable walking shoes, and layers. Sun protection and insect repellent are essential in summer. Bring rain gear in spring/fall.