Best Snorkeling Beaches in New Jersey 2026
Discover where to snorkel at the Jersey Shore. Jetties, reefs, and clear water spots for exploring underwater life.
12
Snorkel Spots
4
Regions
10
Free Access
Snorkeling at the Jersey Shore
While New Jersey isnt known as a tropical snorkeling destination, the Jersey Shore offers surprisingly good underwater exploration around jetties, inlets, and rock structures. The key is knowing where to go and when conditions are right.
Late summer is prime time. August and September offer the warmest water (70-75°F) and best visibility. Early morning before winds build provides the clearest conditions. Focus on jetties and inlets where marine life congregates around the rocks.
Expect to see tautog, sea bass, crabs, hermit crabs, sea stars, and various shellfish. Cape May County has the best overall visibility, while Barnegat Inlet offers excellent fish diversity. Always check conditions before entering and never snorkel alone.
Monmouth County
Northern jetties and inlets
Shark River Inlet
Free AccessRocky jetties attract fish and crabs. Best on calm days with incoming tide for clearer water.
Sandy Hook
Free AccessProtected cove with calm waters and rocky areas. Good visibility and diverse marine life.
Manasquan Inlet
Free AccessPopular fishing jetty also offers snorkeling opportunities along the rocks on calm days.
Ocean County
LBI jetties and clear bay waters
Barnegat Inlet
Free AccessBest VisibilityPremier snorkeling spot with clear waters, diverse fish, and the iconic lighthouse backdrop.
Beach Haven Inlet
Free AccessSouthern LBI inlet with rock structures and good fish populations. Check current conditions.
Island Beach State Park
$10/vehicleBest VisibilityPristine bay waters with eelgrass beds home to seahorses, pipefish, and blue crabs.
Atlantic County
Southern Atlantic jetties
Absecon Inlet
Free AccessLarge inlet with jetty access. Best on calm, clear days when visibility improves.
Great Egg Harbor Inlet
Free AccessJetty structure at Ocean City inlet attracts marine life. Family-friendly location.
Cape May County
Southern tip with best visibility
Cape May Point Jetties
Free AccessBest VisibilityRocky jetties at the southern tip of NJ with excellent marine life diversity and often clearer water.
Sunset Beach
Free AccessUnique location where Delaware Bay meets the ocean. Famous for Cape May diamonds and marine life.
Wildwood Crest Jetties
Free AccessRock structures attract fish and crabs. Calm conditions typical on southern Wildwood beaches.
Stone Harbor Jetty
$10/dayJetty near the inlet with good fish populations and clear water on calm days.
Snorkeling Tips
🤿Time it Right
Snorkel on incoming tide when water is clearest. Early morning before winds build offers best visibility.
🤿Check Conditions
Wait for calm days with minimal wave action. After storms, water may be murky for several days.
🤿Respect the Jetties
Be cautious around rock structures—currents can be strong near inlets. Never snorkel alone.
🤿Bring the Right Gear
A mask with a good seal, snorkel with splash guard, and fins make a huge difference in your experience.
Essential Snorkel Gear
Quality snorkeling gear makes all the difference. Here are our picks for exploring NJ waters.
Snorkel Mask Set
Mask, snorkel, and fins combo. Look for tempered glass mask.
Snorkel Mask
Tempered glass, silicone skirt. Proper fit prevents leaks.
Snorkel Fins
Short fins for snorkeling. Open heel with adjustable straps.
Rash Vest / Swim Shirt
UPF 50+ protection and prevents jellyfish stings.
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FAQ
Is snorkeling good in New Jersey?
NJ snorkeling is best around jetties, inlets, and rock structures where marine life congregates. Visibility is best in late summer (August-September) when water is warmest and clearest.
When is the best time to snorkel at the Jersey Shore?
Late August through early September offers the best conditions—warm water (70-75°F), best visibility, and calm weather. Early morning before waves build provides the clearest conditions.
What marine life can I see snorkeling in NJ?
Expect to see various fish species (tautog, sea bass, bluefish), crabs, hermit crabs, sea stars, and shellfish around jetties. Occasionally dolphins and seals are spotted.
Do I need a wetsuit for snorkeling in NJ?
In peak summer (July-August), you can snorkel without a wetsuit, but water can still be cool. A shorty wetsuit or rash guard adds comfort and sun protection.
Are there guided snorkeling tours in NJ?
Some dive shops offer guided snorkel trips, particularly near Cape May and Atlantic City. Check local dive shops for scheduled excursions and equipment rentals.
Is it safe to snorkel near jetties?
Be cautious of currents near jetties and inlets. Never snorkel alone, avoid rough conditions, and stay away from fishing lines. Check tides before entering.
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