Matchless Manasquan
Ask a surfer and they will tell you that Manasquan Inlet is one of the most epic surf spots on this list. Its exposed beach/jetty break setup delivers set-after-set of clean, surfable waves. You’ll want to paddle out mid-tide while it’s rising for the best ride. Gotta get gear? The area has your choice of highly rated surf shops – including DaveySKY Surfboards, Greenlight Surf Supply and Inlet Outlet Surf Shop.
Awesome Avon
Surfers in the know hit the waves at L Jetty every summer. This tide-reliant (low-to-mid-tide delivers the best waves) spot is good for surfers of all abilities. New to the sport? Local shop Surf N’ Spark sells new and used surfboards, surfing accessories and offers both group and private surf lessons.
Bodacious Belmar
16th Avenue Beach brings the fun factor to your day with the chance for experienced surfers to catch an ultra-hollow barrel. With a southeast swell, you can expect tons of room to spread out. Busted fins on your board? No worries! Eastern Lines has been outfitting surfers with all their needs since 1981.
Amped Asbury Park
If you want to hang ten without worrying about pesky swimmers, you’ll want to hit Surfing Beach between the jetties on Deal Lake Drive and Eighth Avenue in Asbury Park. With its standard beach break, this is one of the best beginner surf spots in the state. You can even sign up for private surf lessons with Summertime Surf.
Stoked Seaside Heights
While some thrill seekers chase an adrenaline rush on rides at Casino Pier, surfers find it in the waves around the pier. This stretch of water boasts some of the longest tube rides in New Jersey. On the south side, you just might catch a right bowl. Cowabunga!
All-In Atlantic City
In AC, visitors hit the jackpot with designated surfing beaches. The city’s unique eastern and southern swell exposure serves up conditions that are welcoming enough for beginners but challenging enough for more advanced surfers. No matter what your skill level, you can learn something new with instruction from AC Surf School. And, when the day is done, be sure to towel off and raise the stakes in one of the many casinos along the boardwalk and back bays!
Totally Tubular Tip: Don’t put your board in storage after Labor Day – you can surf year-round in Jersey! Some of the state’s best surfing conditions occur during the fall. While air temperatures are cooler than in summer, the water typically remains warm through October. Excellent surfing during these months is the result of the Atlantic Ocean's hurricane season, which increases swells. Or break out your wetsuit and beat the crowds throughout winter and spring. Before you head out (in any season!), be sure to go online for the latest surf forecasts.
Rather turn the tide and choose your own spot? Check out all of our surfing beaches. Got some paid time off saved up? Turn your surfing safari into a weeklong beach getaway! Our free travel guide and e-newsletter serve up all the vacation inspiration you could ask for.
