Best Kayaking Beaches in New Jersey 2026
Discover the top kayaking spots at the Jersey Shore. Calm bays, scenic marshes, and coastal waterways perfect for paddlers of all skill levels.
15
Paddle Spots
4
Regions
12
Free Launch
Why Kayak at the Jersey Shore?
The Jersey Shore offers exceptional kayaking beyond its famous ocean beaches. Protected bays, tidal marshes, and scenic waterways provide calm paddling for all skill levels while offering close encounters with coastal wildlife.
Barnegat Bay and the back bays are the crown jewels of Jersey Shore kayaking. Shallow, protected waters make these areas perfect for beginners, while the extensive marsh systems offer endless exploration for experienced paddlers.
Wildlife is the main attraction. Paddle past osprey nests, glide by herons hunting in the shallows, and spot diamondback terrapins in the salt marshes. During spring and fall migrations, the Cape May area becomes a world-class birding destination best experienced from a kayak.
Ocean County - Barnegat Bay
Pristine bays, barrier islands, and the best wildlife viewing
Island Beach State Park
Entry: $10Top RatedPristine 10-mile barrier island with calm bay-side waters. Kayak through salt marshes to spot ospreys, herons, and horseshoe crabs. The most scenic paddling at the shore.
Barnegat Bay
FREETop RatedVast protected bay with calm waters ideal for all skill levels. Paddle to islands, explore marshes, and enjoy sunset views. Multiple launch points along LBI and the mainland.
Sedge Island
FREETop RatedPaddle to this wildlife refuge island in Barnegat Bay. Great destination for intermediate kayakers. Abundant birdlife and seals in winter.
Tuckerton Seaport
FREEHistoric seaport with kayak access to Tuckerton Creek and Little Egg Harbor. Scenic paddling through maritime heritage area with wildlife.
Atlantic County
Wildlife refuges and preserved wetlands
Great Bay Boulevard WMA
FREETop RatedSeven-mile road through pristine salt marshes with multiple kayak launch points. Excellent wildlife including diamondback terrapins and wading birds.
Edwin B. Forsythe NWR
FREETop RatedNational wildlife refuge with kayak-accessible waterways. World-class birding in preserved coastal wetlands. Best during spring and fall migrations.
Brigantine Bay
FREECalm bay waters behind Brigantine Island. Easy paddling with views of Atlantic City skyline and abundant marine life.
Cape May County
World-class birding and scenic inlets
Cape May Wetlands
FREETop RatedPaddle through preserved wetlands with exceptional birding. Cape May is a global birding hotspot, and the water views are even better from a kayak.
Cape May Canal
FREEUnique paddle through the canal connecting Delaware Bay to the Atlantic. Watch for dolphins, boats, and fishing activity.
Corson Inlet State Park
FREETop RatedProtected inlet between Ocean City and Strathmere. Calm waters with excellent shorebird habitat. One of the few undeveloped inlets in NJ.
The Wetlands Institute
Entry: $12Top RatedEducational wetlands center with kayak programs and guided paddles. Learn about salt marsh ecology while exploring the back bays.
Monmouth County
Tidal rivers and protected bays
Shark River
FREEScenic tidal river connecting to Shark River Inlet. Popular fishing spot also great for kayaking. Watch for osprey nests along the shore.
Navesink River
FREEWide tidal river with scenic views and historic sites. Multiple launch points from Red Bank to Atlantic Highlands.
Manasquan Reservoir
Entry: $5Top RatedFreshwater reservoir with no motorboats allowed. Peaceful paddling with fishing opportunities. Great for beginners and families.
Sandy Hook Bay
FREETop RatedProtected bay waters inside Sandy Hook with NYC skyline views. Part of Gateway National Recreation Area. Watch for seals in winter.
Kayaking Tips
🛶Check the Tides
Many shore waterways are tidal. Paddling with the tide is easier. Check tide charts and plan to launch with incoming or slack tide for easiest paddling.
🛶Wind Matters
Afternoon winds can make paddling difficult. Start early in the morning when waters are typically calmer. Watch weather forecasts for wind speed and direction.
🛶Wear a PFD
Life jackets are required in NJ for kayakers. Wear it, not just have it on board. Choose a kayaking-specific PFD for comfort and mobility.
🛶Protect from Sun
Water reflects UV rays, doubling your sun exposure. Wear sunscreen (water-resistant), a hat, and sunglasses. Long sleeves with UPF rating are smart.
🛶Bring Water
Paddling is exercise. Bring more water than you think you need. Dehydration sneaks up on you when surrounded by water you can not drink.
🛶Tell Someone Your Plan
Always tell someone where you are paddling and when you expect to return. Carry a phone in a waterproof case and know how to call for help.
Essential Kayaking Gear
Quality gear makes paddling safer and more enjoyable. Here are our picks for kayaking at the Jersey Shore.
Sit-on-Top Kayak
Stable, self-draining, easy to get back on if you flip.
Kayak Paddle (230-240cm)
Fiberglass blade with aluminum shaft is a good starter combo.
Dry Bag
Keep phone and keys dry. Essential for any paddle.
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FAQ
What is the best place to kayak at the Jersey Shore?
Island Beach State Park offers the best overall kayaking experience with calm bay waters, excellent wildlife, and pristine scenery. Barnegat Bay is ideal for beginners with protected waters and multiple launch points. Cape May wetlands offer exceptional birding while paddling.
When is the best time to kayak in New Jersey?
The kayaking season runs from late April through October. Summer (June-August) offers the warmest water and longest days. Early morning paddles avoid afternoon winds. Fall provides excellent weather with fewer crowds and migrating birds.
Do I need a permit to kayak at the Jersey Shore?
Most locations do not require permits for kayaking. State parks charge entrance fees ($5-10 per vehicle for NJ residents, $10-20 for non-residents). Some wildlife management areas require free registration. Private launches may charge a fee.
Where can I rent kayaks at the Jersey Shore?
Kayak rentals are available in most shore towns. Popular rental spots include Island Beach State Park, Barnegat Bay, Cape May, and Long Beach Island. Expect to pay $25-50 per hour for single kayaks, $40-75 for tandems. Many shops offer half-day and full-day rates.
Is kayaking safe in the ocean at the Jersey Shore?
Ocean kayaking requires experience due to waves, currents, and weather changes. Beginners should stick to calm bays and protected waters. Bay-side paddling is much safer and still offers great scenery. Always wear a PFD and check weather before launching.
What wildlife can I see while kayaking in New Jersey?
Jersey Shore waterways are rich with wildlife. Common sightings include ospreys, great blue herons, egrets, dolphins (in bays), horseshoe crabs (May-June), diamondback terrapins, and various fish. Bird migrations in spring and fall are spectacular.
Can beginners kayak at the Jersey Shore?
Absolutely. Protected bays like Barnegat Bay, Great Bay, and Corson Inlet offer calm, shallow waters perfect for beginners. Guided tours are available for those who want instruction. Start with morning paddles when winds are typically calmer.
What should I bring kayaking at the Jersey Shore?
Essential items include a PFD (life jacket), sunscreen, water, snacks, a dry bag for valuables, hat and sunglasses, and water shoes. A paddle leash prevents losing your paddle. Bring a phone in a waterproof case for emergencies.
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