Best Paddleboarding Beaches in New Jersey 2026
Discover the calmest waters and best launch spots for stand-up paddleboarding at the Jersey Shore. From protected bays to oceanfront flatwater days.
16
SUP Spots
4
Regions
13
Free Access
Why Paddleboard at the Jersey Shore?
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has exploded in popularity at the Jersey Shore. The calm bay waters behind the barrier islands offer perfect conditions for paddling, while more experienced riders can take on ocean swells on calm days.
Bay paddling is best for beginners. Barnegat Bay, Great Bay, and the back bays of Cape May County provide flat water, minimal current, and beautiful scenery. You can paddle for miles exploring marshes, spotting wildlife, and watching spectacular sunsets.
Early morning offers the calmest conditions before winds pick up. Summer and fall provide warm water temperatures, though fall often has the flattest conditions overall. Many shore towns have rental shops if you dont have your own board.
Monmouth County
Rivers, bays, and protected beaches
Sandy Hook Bay
Free AccessTop SUP SpotProtected bay waters with stunning NYC skyline views. Multiple launch points and calm morning conditions.
Navesink River
Free AccessSheltered river paddling with access to scenic coves and historic sites. Great for longer paddles.
Belmar Marina
Free AccessProtected inlet waters perfect for beginners. Easy marina launch with calm conditions most mornings.
Spring Lake
$10/dayWide, uncrowded beach with calm summer days. Early morning paddle before beach crowds arrive.
Ocean County
Bay waters and barrier island paddling
Barnegat Bay - Beach Haven
Free AccessTop SUP SpotProtected bay waters with sunset paddles and wildlife. The premier SUP destination on LBI.
Island Beach State Park - Bay Side
$10/vehicleTop SUP SpotPristine state park with calm bay access. Paddle among osprey nests and natural shoreline.
Tices Shoal
Free AccessShallow bay area perfect for beginners with warm water and easy conditions.
Manahawkin Bay
Free AccessLess crowded bay access point with easy parking and calm paddling conditions.
Surf City Bay
Free AccessPopular bay beach with calm waters and convenient access. Great for families with kids.
Atlantic County
Back bays and protected waters
Brigantine Bay
Free AccessTop SUP SpotProtected bay waters with excellent birding and calm conditions. Less crowded than ocean beaches.
Great Egg Harbor Bay
Free AccessSheltered bay paddling with access from multiple Ocean City locations. Calm mornings ideal.
Ventnor Fishing Pier Area
$10/dayWide beach with designated water sports area. Good for ocean SUP on calm days.
Cape May County
Calm bays and scenic waterways
Cape May Harbor
Free AccessTop SUP SpotProtected harbor paddling with lighthouse views and dolphin sightings possible.
Wildwood Back Bays
Free AccessCalm bay waters behind the Wildwoods. Great sunset paddles and bird watching.
Stone Harbor Wetlands
Free AccessTop SUP SpotPaddle through protected wetlands with incredible bird life. Eco-tours available.
Avalon Bay
Free AccessUpscale beach town with calm bay access and quality rental shops.
Paddleboarding Tips
🏄♂️Start on Calm Water
Begin on bays, rivers, or protected inlets before attempting ocean paddling. Learn to balance and paddle efficiently first.
🏄♂️Check Wind Conditions
Offshore winds can push you out to sea. Check forecasts and paddle early morning when winds are typically calmest.
🏄♂️Wear a Leash
Always use a coiled ankle or calf leash. It keeps you connected to your board if you fall, which is your flotation device.
🏄♂️Know Your Limits
If conditions look rough, choose a bay instead of the ocean. Even experienced paddlers respect changing conditions.
Essential SUP Gear
The right gear makes paddleboarding safer and more enjoyable. Here are our picks for the Jersey Shore.
Inflatable SUP Board
All-around inflatable. Portable, durable, easy to store.
Adjustable SUP Paddle
Fiberglass or carbon fiber. Aluminum is heavy and fatiguing.
PFD / Life Jacket
Required by Coast Guard beyond bathing areas.
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FAQ
Where are the calmest waters for paddleboarding in NJ?
The bay sides of barrier islands (LBI, Island Beach State Park, Brigantine) offer the calmest waters. Barnegat Bay and Great Bay are excellent for beginners with minimal waves and wind protection.
When is the best time to paddleboard at the Jersey Shore?
Early morning (6-9am) offers the calmest conditions before winds pick up. Summer months (June-September) have the warmest water, but fall often has the flattest conditions with fewer crowds.
Do I need a permit to paddleboard at NJ beaches?
Most ocean beaches require a beach badge during summer. Bay launches are often free. Some state parks charge parking fees. Check specific town regulations as rules vary.
Can beginners paddleboard in the ocean?
Start on bay or calm inlet waters first. Ocean paddling requires experience with waves, currents, and conditions. Take a lesson before attempting ocean paddling.
Where can I rent paddleboards at the Jersey Shore?
Rental shops are available in most shore towns including LBI, Ocean City, and Cape May. Many offer hourly and daily rentals with delivery to local beaches.
What safety gear do I need for paddleboarding?
A Coast Guard-approved PFD (life jacket) is required in NJ. A leash is essential to stay connected to your board. Consider a whistle and sun protection.
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Plan Your Paddle Trip
Find rentals and accommodations near the best SUP spots