New Jersey is a popular surfing destination and has been since 1912. The 130 miles of shoreline at The Shore attracts many surfers, from beginners to professionals. If you’re looking to get out and catch some waves, here’s your ultimate Jersey Shore Surfing Guide, including when to surf, where to surf, the regulations, the shops, and the schools.
1. When To Surf At The Shore
Fall is prime surfing time in New Jersey due to smaller crowds, warm water, and big swells. In the warmer months, the weather makes for good waves and great surf days, but there are limited surfing areas due to the bigger crowds.
Luckily, before 9 a.m. And after 5 p.m., it dies down, and there’s much more space for you to catch a wave. Early mornings and evenings are the best times to head out for a surf—there's nothing quite like a sunrise while out on the water in New Jersey. In the colder months, the crowds disappear, but the great surfing conditions remain. If you can brave the cold with warm wetsuits, hoods, gloves, and booties, you’re all set.
Recommended gear for the time of year:
- Summer: Most riders can get away with boardies and a light top.
- Fall: We’d recommend wearing a 3/2 wetsuit with booties as the water starts to get colder
- Winter: This is when you’ll want to grab your 5 mm wetsuit, gloves, hoodie, and booties because it’s pretty chilly.
2. Where To Surf At The Shore
Most towns along the shoreline are great for surfing; casual surfers can easily find an area to hang ten. If you’re looking for a dedicated surfing beach, then head to 70th Street on Long Beach Island; it ensures there won’t be any swimmers or beach dwellers. Jenkinson’s in Point Pleasant Beach boasts awesome surfing conditions all year long.
For those more experienced surfers, head on over to Manasquan Inlet Beach to take part in their contests. If you’re searching out low tide breaks, J Street in Seaside Park is the place for you.
3. Parking Regulations
Most towns on the Jersey Shore have parking regulations. If you’re planning on going surfing early in the morning, ensure you’re back in time to move your car when your time limit is up. Fines are steep, and towing is a big possibility.
In the summer months, it’s necessary to purchase a beach tag that should be worn from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Each town or beach has its own tag, so if you’re hitting up a few different spots, you’re going to need a few different tags.
4. The Surf Shops to Get Your Gear
Get everything you need at the popular surf shops in the area.
Ron Jon Surf Shop originally opened in Long Beach Island in 1961. Now their logo is recognized all over the world, and the LBI store is a four-level emporium with an incredible selection of goods for any level of surf enthusiast.
The popular Beach Haven South End Surf ‘N Paddle is convenient if you’re interested in buying or renting, and their friendly and knowledgeable staff can fill you in on everything and anything surf-related.
5. Surf Schools You Can Learn At
If you or your loved ones are beginners or just want to brush up on your skills, there are some impressive surf schools at the shore. Ocean City Surf School offers lessons year-round and camps in the summer months for surfers of all ages.
The Summertime Surf and Paddle School in Point Pleasant has private surfing lessons and stand-up paddleboarding yoga for those looking to do more out on the water. LBI Surfing has certified instructors with over a decade of experience; they know where to find the best waves on the island.
