In this article, we uncover 6 fantastic spots for SUP in New Jersey. Choose one of these locations for your next epic outing on the water!
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New Jersey is a state that not many people mention when it comes to beauty, outdoor excursions, or even the beach. That is unless people are talking about the Jersey Shore. Yes, that Jersey Shore. This is a shame because the state is full of great places to get on the water for either a fun weekend getaway or an extended stay.
If you find yourself in New Jersey and looking to have a great time on and off the water, be sure to visit one of these 6 locations when you’re there!
Island Beach State Park
Located on the southern tip of the Barnegat Peninsula, Island Beach State Park offers miles of unspoiled beaches and a diverse array of habitats for paddleboarders to explore. Think of wide-open spaces and immersion in nature. The park features a variety of launch locations, including a designated paddle launch at the park’s southern end.
But what makes this location great is the pure white sand beaches it boasts. That’s right! White sand beaches in New Jersey. Who would have thought?
In addition, there are a total of 8 trails, each under one mile to explore. The trails lead to different parts of the island’s beach or bay so it’s easy navigating to your preferred launch location.
Plus, with a beautiful drive out to the beach off the mainland of Jersey, you’re in for a treat. To read more about the park, we suggest taking a look at their website here.
Liberty State Park
Experience New York, New York but in Jersey at this launch spot. Located in Jersey City, Liberty State Park offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. That means you can take in the views of the majestic (and famous) skyline while on your SUP in New Jersey! Plus, the park features a large, protected harbor that is perfect for paddle boarding. And with a public launch at Liberty Landing Marina, you’ve found a great spot to start your paddleboarding journey.
One word of caution though. The current here can be tricky. Plus, with heavy boat traffic, it can be dangerous. Only attempt to paddle at this location if you are an experienced paddler. And always check with a local paddling pro or outfitter in the area about the best places to launch and the best times to go before you head out. In places like this, nothing beats local info!
To read more about the park, be sure to visit their website here.
Belmar Marina
Located in Belmar, this easy-to-find marina offers paddle boarders a chance to explore the Shark River and the Atlantic Ocean when it comes to SUP in New Jersey. So, whether you want to test yourself in an ocean current, or navigate a river, the choice is yours! The marina has a designated launch area for paddle boarders, as well as a variety of amenities such as restrooms, showers, and parking. Just be sure to keep an eye out for boat traffic and know the “rules of the road” before you launch your Stand Up Paddle Board here.
If you’re an experienced marina paddler, then you’ll have no issues. Once off the water, Belmar is an exciting beach town with plenty of flavors to keep your sites (and your stomach) satisfied.
To learn more about Belmar, the Marina, and the surrounding area check out this website here.
Greenwood Lake
Are you more of a mountain person than a beach person? It’s okay if you are, not everyone is cut out for the beach life. If you are, then a trip up to Greenwood Lake is a must if you want to SUP in New Jersey! Nestled high in the mountains of northwest New Jersey sits a beautiful lake surrounded by lush forests, rolling mountainous hills, and a calm body of water perfect for a quiet weekend on the water. Plus, the surrounding area is quiet, the towns nearby are quaint, and the atmosphere here is relaxed. If you want to avoid the crowds, find your own peaceful getaway, and just relax, Greenwood Lake is your place to go.
If you go there without an Atoll iSUP, stop on over to Flatwater Paddle Company for all of your SUP needs.
Ocean City
Not to be confused with the other Ocean City to the south in Maryland, Ocean City, New Jersey, is a lively beach town full of fun activities, world-class restaurants, and that laid-back vibe that seems to permeate every beach town around the world (must be something in the air).
Dubbed “America’s Greatest Family Vacation Town,” it offers something for everyone. The best launch location for your board here is right on the beach. Though you should choose a day with smaller waves if possible. Why there? Because once you’re done paddling you can head over to the large boardwalk full of fun activities, amusement rides, and great restaurants right next to the water. Our suggestion? Grab a slice of pizza and sit on a bench as you watch the waves roll in.
For those paddlers with families in tow, Ocean City, NJ should be your first choice of visitation. For more information about Ocean City, where to stay, what to do, and the best places to eat, read through their website here.
Long Beach Island
Long Beach Island, or LBI as it’s affectionately known to the locals, is your prototypical beach town full of fun launch locations either in the ocean or on the bay, world-class Jersey diners, and fun, lively nightlife if you’re still into that sort of thing.
This stretch of island is worth exploring for at least a weekend. The diversity of towns, fun things to do, and interesting locations make it an exciting location for any SUP enthusiast or traveler. The best place to launch your SUP happens to the bay areas away from the ocean. While the ocean is an option as it always is, the waves here can be pretty gnarly. On the bay, you’ll have a more relaxed time under the sun.
The island itself is broken into different sections that include, Barnegat Light, Beach Haven, Harvey Cedars, Ship Bottom, and Surf City. Each section has something for everyone. But instead of going through all of them here, we think it’s best you checked out LBI’s website here for more information.
Conclusion
Ready to start planning your own Jersey Shore adventure (minus the hair gel)? Then be sure to check out one of the six places above for some of the best locations to SUP in New Jersey! And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or just want to say hi, our inbox is always open. In the meantime, be sure to adventure on!
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