New Jersey, USA
Country/State Data
Regions
1
Breaks
44
Coastline
210 KM
Cost of living
Capital
Trenton
Current Time
Security
Health
Positives
- Good winter consistency
- Winter morning offshores
- Some powerful waves
- Proximity to NYC
Negatives
- Beachbreak only
- Rippy when big
- Beach tags in summer
- Pollution
Where to surf in New Jersey, USA
Pronounced “Joisey” by the locals, the state of New Jersey boasts the most powerful, challenging beachbreaks on the East Coast. Long, straight barrier islands, punctuated by frequent inlets or jetties, are home to one of the largest East Coast surfing populations.
Extending south from Sandy Hook, hundreds of jetties focus swells into classy waves for the hordes of beach culturists who live in this largely built-up area. The deep-water entrance to Manasquan Inlet, generally regarded as the most testing and tantalizing wave on the eastern seaboard, can focus and handle the biggest swells thrown at it. Seaside is a circus of humanity with excellent waves to boot, while Long Beach Island has a reputation for grinding barrels and protective locals. Atlantic City is where the casinos meet the coast and where you can also bet on finding some decent waves. The southern tip of Cape May provides shelter from the howling winds of the winter nor’easters and attracts a big contingent of Jersey surfers when conditions dictate.
Surf spots in New Jersey, USA
Research the 44 surf breaks in New Jersey, USA and discover what spots suit the current conditions.
Break lowdown
We’ve collated the wave data giving you a unique insight into the 44 breaks in New Jersey, USA.
When to go
Surf and weather statistics to help plan your surf trip to New Jersey, USA
- jan
- feb
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- apr
- may
- jun
- jul
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Library
Helpful surf travel videos and articles featuring New Jersey, USA.
Travel Information
General
- Current Time
- Tourists
- 101,000,000
- Population
- 8,882,000
- Tourist Info
- Tourist Info
Security
Health
Money
- Currency
- USD
Cost of living
Communication
- Language
- English
Electricity
- Plug Type
- ab
Visas
Due to Covid there are special restrictions so it is essential to check the latest news before booking any trip. Normally most Europeans, Aussies, Kiwis and Japanese are part of the Visa waiver program so do not need a visa to enter the USA for up to 90 days, but they do need to apply for ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) which costs US$14. Other nationalities need to check as the rules are constantly being adjusted.
Getting There
Atlantic City lies 1 hour from Philadelphia airport (PHL) and 2½ hours from Newark (EWR). NJ Transit trains connect EWR to the northern spots (Allenhurst, Manasquan...) and also PHL to Atlantic City. NJ Transit bus line #319 goes from NYC to the southern spots (Atlantic City to Cape May). Boards allowed but avoid peak hours.
Getting Around
Public transport is not an easy option for the surfer. Unless you know someone in the area, book a rental car/van (from $230/wk - over 21), but get ready for nightmarish parking in summer. Gas is still pretty cheap compared to the rest of the developed world. Access is easy unless private property faces the spot or beach tags season is on.
Accommodation
Large choice of accommodation (especially in Wildwood area), from basic motels ($50-80/dble) to luxury hotels. Prices usually double in summer. Huge portion, fast-food restaurants everywhere, but finding healthy food means searching and paying more.
Activities
Beach and gambling are the big attractions. Climb the 228-steps of Atlantic City’s historic Absecon Lighthouse to check the sandbanks. Roller coasters all over the place despite superstorm Sandy flipping many iconic rides into the sea. Whale watching from Cape May peninsula, also visit the Cape May Point State Park. NYC is close.
Hazards & hassles
The numerous jetties and piers are not kind to boards or bodies! Sharks are around, but attacks occur very rarely. NJ beaches are famous for biting greenhead flies. Jellyfish swarms occasionally blow in. Beach tags enforced by local councils (from $5/10/25 day/week/seasonal).
Handy Hints
The Jersey shore is loaded with about 60 good surf shops. The perfect Jersey quiver would include a longboard for the small, busy summer waves, an all-round shortboard, plus a longer thruster for high performance in large surf. Many surf schools including Hammer surf school who offers advanced coaching along with regular lessons. Between these 44 named spots are at least another 50 more.
Due to global pandemic, Visas, Getting There, Getting Around or Accommodation information and pricing may have changed. Always check Government Travel Advice before travelling.
Surf Culture
Cultural surf gallery for New Jersey, USA
History
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