6 Best Spots for Paddle Boarding NJ Adventures
Source: King of Hearts
Exploring paddle boarding NJ, known as the ultimate playground for watersports lovers. With a stunning Atlantic coastline, vibrant beach towns, and diverse waters around the area, it is perfect for paddle board and kayak activities.
DISCLAIMER: Before traveling to a paddle location, ensure that the location still allows for paddle boarding and make yourself aware of any rules and regulations in place.
6 Best Locations for New Jersey Paddle Boarding
The best timeframe for New Jersey paddle boarding is between late spring and early fall, when the warm weather and best conditions for aquatic adventures are available.
1. Island Beach State Park
Island Beach State Park is situated at the southern tip of the Barnegat Peninsula, a 10-mile stretch of untouched beaches and diverse natural habitats, heaven for paddle board NJ enthusiasts.
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- Water type: Calm waters
- Skill levels: All levels
- Launching points: Areas 15 & 21, and NJ paddle board launch spots at the southern end
- Amenities: Accommodations, picnic spots, parking and public restrooms
- Unique features: New Jersey’s largest osprey colony, maritime forests, diverse wildlife, and scenic hiking trails
2. Belmar Marina
Digging deeper into the heart of Belmar, Belmar Marina offers paddle boarding NJ adventurers a gateway to explore the Atlantic Ocean and the Shark River.
Source: Constantino14 - Commons Wikimedia
- Water type: Tranquil waters with ocean currents
- Skill levels: intermediate and advanced levels, but beginners can try safety precautions.
- Launching points: Designated NJ paddle boarding launch area at the marina
- Amenities: Near-by dining options, parking, public restrooms and showers
- Unique features: Belmar’s waterways, whale-watching tours, bustling downtown attractions
3. Egg Harbor Township Nature Reserve Loop
Right in the heart of Egg Harbor Township’s residential area, the Nature Reserve offers a serene 2.6-km loop trail. This sanctuary is home to diverse ecosystems, from wooden forests to wetlands to lakes, a perfect backdrop for paddle boarding NJ and nature exploration.
Source: Mr. Matté - Commons Wikimedia
- Water type: Calm with varying depths (up to 20 feet)
- Skill levels: All levels
- Launching points: Along the lake
- Amenities: Environmental Learning Center, birdhouses, picnic areas, and parking
- Unique features: Scenic island views, bass fishing spots, oak-pine forests rich in wildlife with opportunities for sightings of bald eagles, ospreys, and falcons
4. Ocean City
Ocean City, NJ paddle boarding offers an ideal mix of tranquil bay waters and coastal charm along the Jersey Shore, with a family-friendly atmosphere.
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- Water type: Smooth waters with light currents
- Skill levels: paddle boarding Ocean City NJ is suitable for all levels
- Launching points: Corson’s Inlet State Park, 9th Street Bridge area
- Amenities: Picnic spots, board rentals, parking, and public restrooms
- Unique features: Close to Ocean City’s famous boardwalk and attractions, serene bay views, a thriving ecosystem with wildlife, and birdwatching opportunities
5. Cape May
At the southern tip of New Jersey, Cape May Harbor offers a serene and adventurous stand up paddle board NJ paradise.
Source: Giorgio Galeotti - Commons Wikimedia
- Water type: Calm and gentle currents
- Skill levels: paddle boarding in Cape May, NJ is suitable for all levels
- Launching points: Delaware Avenue (public) and boat ramp at the Coast Guard base (military ID required)
- Amenities: Accommodations, restaurants, and local shops
- Unique features: Creeks teeming with birdlife on your paddling route, wildlife observation opportunities
6. Long Beach Island
Long Beach Island (usually called "LBI" by locals) is another top paddle-boarding NJ destination. Nestled along New Jersey's coast, it has pristine beaches and scenic bayfronts.
Source: Fletcher - Commons Wikimedia
- Water type: Calm bay waters, more challenging further into the ocean
- Skill levels: All levels around the island, advanced levels recommended for the ocean
- Launching points: Beach Haven and Bayview Park
- Amenities: Restaurants, cafes, rental shops, picnic spots with parking and restrooms
- Unique features: Tranquil water combined with scenic views, and a natural sanctuary with wildlife for natural enthusiasts
New Jersey Paddle Boarding Rentals
Are you traveling for a promising paddle boarding New Jersey experience? If so, there are some rental options you can think of when you reach New Jersey.
1. Paddle Out
Location: 537 E Main St. Manasquan, NJ 08736 - right on the intercoastal waterway,
Pricing (paddles & lifejackets included):
| Duration | Paddle Board/Single Kayak | Tandem Kayak |
|---|---|---|
| 1 hour | $25 | $35 |
| 2.5 hours | $50 | $70 |
| 4 hours | $65 | $90 |
| 8 hours | $90 | $125 |
| 2 days | $150 | $200 |
| 5 days | $250 | $300 |
Other activities: Beginner lessons and group/private guided tours are available
2. Flatwater Paddle Co.
Location:
- 1081 Greenwood Lake Turnpike Ringwood, NJ 07456
- HQ/Mail: 831 Burnt Meadow Rd Hewitt, NJ 07421 Unit 1-i
Pricing (paddles & lifejackets included):
| Duration | SUP/Single Kayak | Tandem Kayak | Dragon Board |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Hour | $25 | $40 | $60 |
| 2 Hours | $40 | $55 | $100 |
| 4 Hours | $55 | $70 | $140 |
Other activities: Public and private lessons are available
3. Miss Chris Kayaks
Location: Miss Chris Marina, 1212 Wilson Drive, Cape May, NJ 08204
Pricing (paddle, lifejackets, map, and instructions included):
| Rental Type | 1st Hour | Additional Hour(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Single Kayak | $28 | $5 |
| Double Kayak | $40 | $10 |
| Paddle board | $28 | $10 |
Other activities: Kayak tour and Pontoon boat rental
4. Ocean City Paddle Company
Location: 10th Street Wharf on the Bay, Ocean City, NJ
| Rental Type | Included Items | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-Site Rentals | Paddleboard/Kayak, Paddle, Life Vest | 1 or 2 hours | Starting at $40 |
| Takeaway Rentals | Paddleboard, Pump, Paddle, Life Vest | Daily or Weekly | Starting at $90 |
Other activities: Paddle Pass and group/private lessons and tours are available
Although renting paddle boards on the spot is convenient for travelers, you might be stuck with whatever the store has left for you. Get yourself a SUP board that fits you well. It can become a great paddle-boarding NJ buddy that you can trust. You can also get a kayak conversion kit if you want to have both kayaking and paddle-boarding adventures with the same equipment.
Things to Do After Paddle Boarding New Jersey
After an exciting day with paddle boarding in NJ, there are still plenty of activities in this vibrant culture to keep your adventure going.
- Exploring Liberty Science Center: Engaged with interactive exhibits and awe-inspiring planetarium shows
- Walk through Adventure Aquarium: Discover mesmerizing marine life
- Adorse Paterson Great Falls: Amazed by the beauty of this historic natural landmark
- Enjoy the Food Trucks Festival: Treat yourself to the diverse cuisines and delicious treats and make some new friends
Gear up and Enjoy Your NJ Paddle Board Adventure
Get ready for a memorable paddle-boarding NJ experience with stunning scenes and vibrant activities. With its lightweight and convenient features, an inflatable paddle board is the perfect travel buddy for your upcoming trip. Gear up, and let’s go!
