While I’ve heard good friends talk a lot about the locations mentioned in this guide, New Jersey has never been on my radar, and I was surprised to hear about its excellent kite conditions. New Jersey’s beaches might not be the prettiest in the world, but escaping big city life and having such great flatwater spots so close to NYC is truly exceptional!
Sandy Hook is home to exceptional flatwater conditions
Sandy Hook is New Jersey’s most popular spot and the closest to New York City. As its name implies, it’s a peninsular sandy hook with the Raritan and Sandy Hook Bays to its west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. On the Raritan side, there is excellent flatwater sheltered by the sand bar, offering calmer conditions — which makes it perfect for beginners and for practicing new tricks. The best wind direction for this spot is N, but S also works. Launch from Parking Spot B.
A spot for beginners
Most places offer flat to choppy conditions. Kite Island, for instance, has a big bay with waist-deep flat water, making it ideal for learning to kiteboard and practicing unhooked moves. It’s only accessed by boat, and the closest harbor is Waretown.
Other great New Jersey kiting options
Other kite spots to check out around New Jersey are Long Beach Island, Ocean Side (chop, waves), 25th Street Long Beach Island (flatwater, chop), Seaside Park (choppy), or Lakes Bay (flat, choppy). You can find an excellent overview of all kite launches around New Jersey here. If you’re from New York, make sure to check 57hours other Favorite Kiteboarding Spots in NYC (including a secret spot!).