Water Sports at the Jersey Shore
From surfing to kayaking to jet skiing, get out on the water and make the most of the shore.
Choose Your Adventure
Surfing
Learn to surf or find the best breaks. Lessons, rentals, and surf schools along the coast.
Best for: All skill levels - lessons for beginners, world-class breaks for pros
Explore SurfingPaddleboarding (SUP)
Stand up paddleboarding on calm back bays. SUP yoga, touring, and rentals.
Best for: Beginners, yoga enthusiasts, nature lovers
Explore Paddleboarding (SUP)Kayaking
Explore bays, marshes, and calm waters. Guided tours, eco-adventures, and wildlife spotting.
Best for: Families, nature lovers, photographers
Explore KayakingJet Skiing
High-speed thrills on the water. Rentals available at multiple shore locations.
Best for: Thrill seekers, couples, groups
Explore Jet SkiingParasailing
Soar above the ocean for incredible views. Available at Wildwood and other resort towns.
Best for: Adventure seekers, special occasions
Explore ParasailingFeatured Shops & Outfitters
Island Surf & Sail
Beach Haven
Island Surf & Sail is the go-to destination for water sports on Long Beach Island. Offering kayak and SUP rentals on the calm bay side, plus surfing lessons on the ocean. Their guided eco-tours are excellent for wildlife spotting.
- ✓Calm bay waters perfect for beginners
- ✓Sunset paddle tours available
- ✓All equipment and instruction included
- ✓Family-friendly atmosphere
Best For
Tip: Book the sunset kayak tour—the views of the bay are spectacular. Arrive 15 minutes early for orientation.
7th Street Surf Shop
Ocean City
A landmark surf shop that's been outfitting surfers for nearly 50 years. They offer board rentals, lessons, and everything you need to hit the waves. The staff knows the local breaks inside and out.
- ✓Legendary surf shop since 1975
- ✓Knowledgeable local staff
- ✓Prime boardwalk location
- ✓Lessons for all skill levels
Best For
Tip: Ask about the best spots for your skill level—the staff knows which breaks work on any given day.
Morey's Watersports
Wildwood
Part of the famous Morey's Piers family, this is Wildwood's largest water sports operation. Jet ski rentals, parasailing flights, banana boats, and more. Located on the bay side for protected waters.
- ✓Multiple water sports in one location
- ✓Protected bay waters
- ✓Part of Morey's Piers operation
- ✓Parasailing with stunning views
Best For
Tip: Book parasailing for early morning when winds are calmest. Combo packages offer better value.
Inkwell Surf Shop
Asbury Park
Located right on the Asbury Park boardwalk, Inkwell embodies the town's creative surf culture. Great beginner lessons, board and wetsuit rentals, and a curated selection of surf gear.
- ✓Steps from the beach
- ✓Patient instructors for beginners
- ✓Cool Asbury Park vibe
- ✓Year-round operation
Best For
Tip: Book a lesson first thing in the morning when the ocean is typically calmest for beginners.
Shop Directory
Adventure Sports
Belmar
Full-service water sports shop on the Shark River with calm water access.
Hours: Daily 9am-6pm
Cape May Kayak
Cape May
Eco-tours through Cape May marshes with wildlife spotting.
Silver Bullet Tours
Wildwood Crest
Dolphin watching and speed boat tours in Wildwood.
Sandy Hook Kayak
Highlands
Gateway to Sandy Hook Bay with stunning NYC skyline views.
Surf Buggy
Point Pleasant Beach
Classic surf shop with rentals and lessons near Jenkinson's.
Stone Harbor Watersports
Stone Harbor
Upscale watersports rentals on Seven Mile Island.
Avalon Watersports
Avalon
Bay-side paddling and eco-tours in Avalon.
Belmar Pro Surf Shop
Belmar
Surf shop serving Belmar's famous breaks.
Popular Locations
Long Beach Island
Calm bay side perfect for paddling. Multiple outfitters available.
Wildwood
Resort-style water sports with jet skis, parasailing, and tubing.
Which Water Sport Is Right for You?
Not sure where to start? Answer these questions to find your perfect water sport.
The Thrill Seeker
We recommend: Surfing
Surfing delivers the biggest rush—catching your first wave feels like flying. The learning curve is steep, but the payoff is unmatched. You'll wipe out constantly at first, but that's part of the fun.
Also consider:
Jet skiing for instant thrills • Parasailing for one-time rush
Skip these:
SUP yoga (too slow) • Eco kayaking (too chill)
The Nature Lover
We recommend: Kayaking
Kayaking through back bays and marshes puts you in the middle of nature without the noise. You'll see herons, osprey, crabs, and sometimes dolphins. Sunrise and sunset paddles are especially magical.
Also consider:
SUP for similar calm-water experience • Eco-tours for guided nature
Skip these:
Jet skiing (too loud) • Surfing in crowds (too chaotic)
The Fitness Enthusiast
We recommend: Stand-Up Paddleboarding
SUP is a full-body workout disguised as fun. Your core, legs, and arms all engage to maintain balance. An hour of paddling burns 300-400 calories. Add SUP yoga for an extra challenge.
Also consider:
Kayaking for upper body focus • Surfing for explosive cardio
Skip these:
Parasailing (passive experience) • Jet skiing (engine does the work)
The Family Planner
We recommend: Tandem Kayaking
Two-person kayaks let parents paddle while kids enjoy the ride. Back bay waters are calm and shallow. Most outfitters have kayaks stable enough that tipping is nearly impossible.
Also consider:
SUP with smaller kids on board • Jet ski with teens (15+)
Skip these:
Surfing with young kids (dangerous) • Solo activities (hard to watch kids)
The First-Timer
We recommend: Guided SUP Lesson
Paddleboarding has the gentlest learning curve. Calm bay water, wide stable boards, and a low center of gravity mean most people stand up on their first try. Guides stay close and coach you through it.
Also consider:
Kayaking is even easier (you're sitting) • Beginner surf lesson in tiny waves
Skip these:
Ocean surfing without lessons • Jet skiing without experience
Honest Skill Level Breakdown
Before you commit, know what you're getting into. No sugarcoating.
Surfing
Physical Demands
Requires paddling strength, cardiovascular endurance, and explosive power to pop up. Swimming ability is essential—you need to be comfortable in surf zone.
Mental Demands
Reading waves takes years to master. Timing, positioning, and ocean awareness develop slowly. Frustration tolerance is key.
First Session
Most beginners stand up briefly by end of first lesson, but expect to fall 50+ times. Soreness in arms, shoulders, and core is normal for days after.
Time to Competence
6-12 months of regular practice to consistently catch and ride waves.
Time to Mastery
5+ years to surf varying conditions confidently.
The honest truth: Surfing is harder than it looks. The Instagram clips are the 1% of the session—the other 99% is paddling, waiting, and wiping out. Worth it, but set expectations low.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Physical Demands
Core stability matters more than strength. If you can balance on one foot, you can SUP. Paddling technique improves endurance.
Mental Demands
Low stress activity. Falling in is refreshing, not scary. The bay water is usually waist-deep.
First Session
80% of beginners stand up and paddle successfully within 15 minutes. Start on your knees if nervous.
Time to Competence
1-2 sessions to feel confident. A few weeks to paddle efficiently.
Time to Mastery
N/A for recreational paddling. SUP racing or surfing is another level.
The honest truth: This is the most beginner-friendly water sport. If you're nervous about water sports, start here. The confidence boost transfers to harder activities.
Kayaking
Physical Demands
Upper body gets a workout but technique matters more than strength. Sit-on-top kayaks are stable—tipping is rare in calm water.
Mental Demands
Relaxing once you get the paddle stroke down. Navigation is intuitive. Stay near shore at first.
First Session
Most people paddle confidently within 10 minutes. The hardest part is getting in and out.
Time to Competence
One session for basic paddling. A few trips to navigate efficiently.
Time to Mastery
Ocean kayaking and rough water require 1-2 years of practice.
The honest truth: If you can sit in a chair and move your arms, you can kayak. It's the most accessible water sport for all ages and abilities.
Jet Skiing
Physical Demands
Grip strength and core stability help at high speeds. The machine does the work—you steer.
Mental Demands
Requires spatial awareness. Other boats, swimmers, and obstacles need constant attention. Speed creates risk.
First Session
Most people are riding comfortably within 5 minutes. Controlling speed and turns takes longer.
Time to Competence
One session for basic operation. A few rides to feel confident in traffic.
Time to Mastery
Freestyle tricks take years. Recreational riding is quick to learn.
The honest truth: It's fun immediately but has the highest injury risk of shore water sports. Respect the power and follow safety rules.
Parasailing
Physical Demands
Operators handle everything. You sit in a harness and enjoy the view. No swimming required.
Mental Demands
Heights can be scary, but the experience is gentle. Takeoffs and landings are smooth.
First Session
Zero skill required. You're a passenger, not a participant.
Time to Competence
N/A - each flight is self-contained.
Time to Mastery
N/A - there's nothing to master.
The honest truth: This is an experience, not a sport. Perfect for bucket-list checkoffs and non-athletic family members. The views are incredible.
Gear Buying Guide
Renting is always the right call for beginners. But once you're hooked, here's what to know about buying.
Surfing
Rent first: Always. Try at least 10+ sessions before buying anything.
Forgiving, stable, catches small waves. You'll use it for 1-2 years minimum.
Summer suit for June-September. Add a 4/3mm for fall and 5/4mm for winter.
Matches your board length. Don't cheap out—a broken leash is dangerous.
Avoid: Don't buy a short performance board. You're not ready. Seriously.
Local shops: Eastern Lines (Belmar), 7th Street Surf (Asbury), Heritage (Long Beach Island)
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Rent first: 3-5 sessions to confirm you enjoy it.
Inflatable boards are durable, portable, and store easily. 10-11ft length is versatile.
Fiberglass or carbon fiber. Aluminum is heavy and fatiguing.
Required by Coast Guard when paddling beyond bathing areas.
Avoid: Cheap Amazon boards with 1-year warranties. They delaminate and leak.
Local shops: Kayak Connection (Wildwood), Shore Paddle (Somers Point), Backwater Paddle (Cape May)
Kayaking
Rent first: 2-3 sessions to determine sit-on-top vs sit-inside preference.
Stable, self-draining, easy to get back on if you flip. 10-12ft is versatile.
Fiberglass blade with aluminum shaft is a good starter combo.
Keep phone and keys dry. Essential for any paddle.
Avoid: Racing/touring kayaks designed for speed. They're tippy for beginners.
Local shops: Same as SUP shops—most carry both.
General Tips
Buy end-of-season
September sales at surf shops can hit 30-50% off. Boards don't expire.
Used gear is fine
Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist have deals. Check for dings and cracks.
Storage matters
UV degrades boards. Store indoors or use board bags for outdoor storage.
Shop Surfing Gear on Amazon
Ready to buy your own gear? Here are our top picks for beginners.
Soft-Top Longboard (8-9ft)
Forgiving, stable, catches small waves. Perfect for beginners.
Wetsuit (3/2mm)
Summer suit for June-September. 3mm body, 2mm arms.
Wetsuit (4/3mm)
Fall suit for October-November and late spring. 4mm body, 3mm arms.
Wetsuit (5/4mm)
Winter suit for December-March. 5mm body, 4mm arms for cold NJ water.
Surf Booties
Keep feet warm in cold water. 5mm-7mm for winter surfing.
Surf Gloves
Essential for winter surfing. 3mm-5mm keeps hands functional.
Surf Hood
Keep your head warm in winter. Works with non-hooded wetsuits.
Surf Leash
Matches your board length. Don't cheap out - safety first.
Rash Guard
Sun protection and prevents board rash.
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Shop Paddleboarding Gear on Amazon
All-around SUP boards and essential accessories.
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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Shop Kayaking Gear on Amazon
Recreational kayaks and paddling essentials.
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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Shop Snorkeling Gear on Amazon
Masks, fins, and rash guards for exploring underwater.
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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Getting Started
Book Lessons
First time? Start with a lesson. All surf and paddle schools welcome beginners and provide equipment.
Check Conditions
Surfing depends on wave conditions. Paddling needs calm winds. Check forecasts before booking.
Rent First
Try before you buy. Most shops rent boards by the hour or day. See what you like before investing.
Sun Protection
You'll be on the water for hours. Rash guards, reef-safe sunscreen, and hats are essential.
Book Water Sports Online
Reserve your activities in advance and skip the lines.
Wildwood Jet Ski Adventure
Wildwood
Ride the waves on a jet ski in Wildwood bay. No experience needed - safety instruction provided.
From $89
per person
via Viator
Ocean City Parasailing Flight
Ocean City
Soar 400+ feet above the ocean for stunning coastal views. Single, tandem, and triple flights.
From $85
per person
via Viator
LBI Guided Kayak Eco-Tour
Beach Haven
Explore Barnegat Bay by kayak with an expert guide. Wildlife spotting and beautiful scenery.
From $65
per person
via GetYourGuide
Asbury Park Surf Lesson
Asbury Park
Learn to surf with patient instructors on the iconic Asbury Park beach. All levels welcome.
From $75
per person
via Viator
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Best Times for Water Sports
Surfing
Best: Fall (Sep-Nov) for hurricane swells. Summer is flattest but warmest. Winter has great waves but cold water (5mm wetsuit needed).
Kayaking & SUP
Best: Late spring through early fall. Calm mornings are ideal. Avoid windy days. Sunset paddles are magical.
Jet Skiing
Best: Summer (Memorial Day - Labor Day) when rental shops are fully open. Calm days are safest for beginners.
Parasailing
Best: Summer only. Requires calm winds (under 15 mph). Morning flights tend to have better conditions.
Safety Essentials
Know Your Limits
Water sports can be dangerous. Start with lessons, respect conditions, and don't go out alone.
Wear a PFD
Life jackets are required for kayaking and often for jet skiing. Non-swimmers should wear them always.
Onyx Adult Life Jacket($50-70)Check the Weather
Conditions change fast. Check forecasts, watch for storms, and know when to come in.
Respect the Ocean
Rip currents are real. Learn to identify them and how to escape. Swim parallel to shore.
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