Whether you prefer the rippling waves of the Atlantic Ocean, or the gentle tides of the bay or inlet, an outing near the water is a must for your Jersey Shore bucket list. Here in Belmar, you’ll find plenty of ways to “whet” your appetite for salty adventures and water sports during summer vacation.
1. Fishing On A Charter Boat Or In The Surf
A half- or full-day fishing trip in the Atlantic Ocean can be a fun change of pace during your vacation in Belmar. The Belmar Marina is home to one of New Jersey's largest fleet of fishing head boats (party boats) and private fishing charters. Fluke (summer flounder), sea bass, bluefish, and tile fish are some of the species you can catch locally here.
Surf fishing from the coastline is another place to cast your line if you are more of a landlubber than a sailor. The jetties by the Belmar Fishing Club (near the Belmar-Avon border) are popular fishing spots among the locals. Or, cast your line into the sea from the sandy shores of Belmar beach.
In addition to half- and full-day fishing trips, you also can book fireworks, sunset, and whale-watching cruises on some of the Belmar Marina boats. Each vessel is independently owned and operated, so contact the boat directly for pricing and ticket information (link below). RELATED: Local Guide To Fishing Party Boats And Charters At The Belmar Marina
2. Whale-Watching Excursion
There's nothing more spectacular than seeing a humpback whale breaching right before your eyes! Even catching a glimpse of a whale tail or a water spout breaking through the waves is also very exciting!
The popularity of whale watching in the Belmar region of the Jersey Shore has grown in recent years as the marine mammals have become more prevalent off the New Jersey coast. At the Belmar Marina, three boats currently offer whale-watching excursions: the SS Miss Belmar, the Jersey Girl, and Ocean Explorer. You might even see dolphins, cool coastal birds, and other sea life during your outing.
3. Kayaking
Set sail on the open water in an ocean kayak built for one or two. The Belmar Manutti Marina has a public launching ramp, and the town and also rents kayak storage space at L Street beach on a seasonal basis. The Shark River Inlet in Belmar is another great place for kayaking, especially if you prefer calmer waters.
RELATED: Best Parks And Playgrounds In Belmar
4. Parasailing
Parasailing is a fun water activity that does not require any previous experience or special equipment. The crew at Belmar Parasail makes sure you are safely harnessed in, and you take off and land slowly and safely on the boat. You have the option to dip your toes in the water (or not).
5. Standup Paddle Boarding (SUP) and SUP Yoga
You’ll feel like you are walking on water when you get going on a standup paddle board (SUP). The Shark River Inlet at the Belmar Marina is a peaceful place that attracts paddlers of all ages.
Two local Belmar businesses, Endless SUP Company and Eastern Lines Surf Shop, offer SUP lessons and board rentals from May through September. Endless SUP has a spot right at L Street beach, while Eastern Lines is located on Ocean Avenue across from 18th Avenue beach.
Swap your mat for a paddle board and try a SUP yoga class on the flat waters of the Shark River Inlet. Classes are led by Endless SUP Company at L Street beach every May to September.
6. Sunset Watching
The water views in Belmar allow you to admire stunning sunsets over the Shark River, as well as sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. At sunset time, reserve an outside table at Klein’s Seafood Restaurant to watch the fishing boats pass by.
The Ocean Explorer and Golden Eagle are two locally operated commercial fishing boats at the Belmar Marina that offer sunset fishing cruises. Or try a sunset paddle with Endless SUP in Belmar. In addition, you'll catch some truly amazing sunsets from your table at the Belmar Marina's two waterfront restaurants, Marina Grille and 9th Avenue Pier. Maclearie Park on Route 35 in Belmar is another hidden gem for sunset watchers.
RELATED: Dine With A Water View In Belmar
7. Surfing
The surfing beaches in Belmar are located at 17th and 18th Avenues. In addition, Summertime Surf School offers surfing camps for kids and group or private surfing lessons for adults and organizations at 3rd Avenue beach in Belmar.
Surf boards can be rented at Eastern Lines, which is conveniently located across the street from the 18th Avenue surfing beach.
8. Belmar Tiki Boat
The Belmar Tiki Boat is a 45-foot pontoon boat that fits up to 30 guests, including adults and children together. You will enjoy a leisurely cruise around the scenic Shark River, departing from L Dock at the Belmar Marina. Book your excursion for a sunset cruise, or gather a group of friends to celebrate a birthday, special event, or just a beautiful summer evening!
RELATED: All Aboard The Belmar Tiki Boat
As you can see, you'll find plenty of fun ways to enjoy the water in Belmar, New Jersey, in addition to soaking up the sun and ocean views on beautiful Belmar beach!
Story and photos © copyright by Christine Cardellino, owner of www.VacationInBelmar.com and publisher of the award-winning Belmar Beachcomber Blog, a travel and tourism guide for the Belmar region of the Jersey Shore. Do not copy any content (including images) without our permission. All rights reserved.
Live Like A Local: Rent A Belmar Beach House
Day trips down the shore are fun, but it's even better to rent a beach house for the week to experience everything wonderful about the Belmar area. For couples, single adults and small families, the two-bedroom Blue Hydrangea Cottage rental in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect getaway place. The home sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars for cleanliness, amenities and location. Learn more at www.VacationInBelmar.com.
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