Summertime in New Jersey means it’s time to get in the water and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re interested in exploring the ocean, lakes, rivers and harbors, these adventures make for an unforgettable summer vacation.
Kayaking & Canoeing
Explore the natural habitats of the Pine Barrens on a naturalist-led guided tour with Pinelands Adventures (Shamong), where you can paddle a canoe up the Batsto River while learning all about the surrounding flora and fauna. Or, take to the waters in a kayak with Kayak East, with locations on the Delaware River, Statue of Liberty and Sandy Hook Bay.
Surfing
Ready to hit the waves? Head over to Beach Haven’s South-End Surf ’N Paddle to take a private or semi-private surf lesson, and then try your luck in the waters of Long Beach Island. From kids’ and adults’ surf camps to private surf lessons, Summertime Surf & Paddle School in Belmar offers plenty of ways to learn the joy of catching a wave, and Ocean Outfitters in Wildwood Crest also offers surf camps and lessons, as well as surfboard rentals.
Parasailing
Get a thrill high above the ocean with a parasailing adventure, where you’ll soar through the skies with a parachute pulled by a high-speed boat. Enjoy some family fun 500 feet in the air at Point Pleasant Parasail in Point Pleasant, or make your way to Sea Isle City for a flight with Sea Isle Parasail, which will take you up to 300 feet in the air.
SUP: Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Have you ever tried a stand-up paddleboard? Give this popular new water sport a try at Paddleworks in Manasquan, where you can explore the glassy waters of Stockton Lake and Glimmer Glass Harbor. At Greenwood Lake Paddleboards in Ringwood, spend a couple hours paddling on the calm waters of Monksville Reservoir, or head over to Harbor Outfitters in Ocean City to test your skills on some ocean waves.
