It’s summertime here on Long Beach Island, and as the heat starts to melt you, the search for water becomes real. You NEED it. But maybe the ocean’s not your thing—and that’s totally fine. LBI is packed with all kinds of water activities that go way beyond the beach.
Whether you’re looking to stay active, kick back and relax, soak up the sun, or dive into something adventurous, there’s something for everyone. Stay cool and hydrated this summer by trying out some of these fun water options during your LBI getaway.
Pick Your Water Activity 👇
Swimming
Let’s start with the easiest go-to when it comes to water activities: swimming! Whether you prefer the ocean or the bay, there’s plenty of space for everyone. No need to wait for a lane—just jump in and start swimming.
If you’re looking for something more structured, St. Francis Community Center has a full aquatic center. (Fun fact: it’s where I learned how to swim.) They offer swim lessons, water fitness classes, and competitive swim programs for all ages. The facility includes an indoor Olympic-sized pool and two outdoor pools, so you’ve got options rain or shine.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Stand-up paddleboarding is a fun way to get out on the water without getting totally soaked. It’s also a surprisingly good workout. You can paddle through the calm marshes of the bay or challenge yourself by catching a wave out in the ocean. And if you’re feeling bold, try a handstand in a SUP yoga class—yes, that’s a thing!
Where to Rent a Paddleboard
South End Surf ’N Paddle – Beach Haven
Beach Haven Watersports – Beach Haven Gardens
LBI Surfing – Locations in Surf City & Beach Haven
Yoga Studios with SUP Classes
Surfing
Grab your board and hit the beach—it’s time to chase the big kahuna. Surfing has seriously grown over the years here on LBI, and it shows in the number of surf shops where you can buy gear, rent a board, or sign up for a lesson.
For some of the best waves, head down to Holgate and check out the point break by the jetty. It’s a favorite local spot for a reason.
Where to Rent a Surfboard
Farias Surf & Sport – Ship Bottom & Beach Haven
Wave Hog Surf Shop – Ship Bottom
Matador Surf Shop – Manahawkin
LBI Surf Guru – Ship Bottom
Boogie Boarding
I grew up boogie boarding for hours in the ocean with my cousins every summer on LBI—and honestly, not much has changed. I’ll still grab my board and ride whatever the ocean throws my way.
If you’re looking for an easy, fun way to connect with the waves, boogie boarding is the way to go. No experience needed—just grab a board and dive in.
Where to Buy a Boogie Board
Farias Surf & Sport – Ship Bottom & Beach Haven
Skimboarding
Anyone with a skimboard instantly becomes your new best friend on the beach. Whether you’re gliding across the wet sand or trying to ride a wave in the shore break, LBI has plenty of great spots for skimming.
It’s the kind of beach activity that’s easy to pick up, fun to master, and always grabs attention.
Where to Buy a Skimboard
Wave Hog Surf Shop – Ship Bottom
Farias Surf & Sport – Ship Bottom & Beach Haven
Kayaking
When the bay is flat and glassy, kayaking is a must. As you paddle out, you can spot marine life and vegetation just beneath the surface. It’s peaceful, scenic, and a great way to explore the marsh islands that dot the bay.
Feeling a little more daring? Grab an ocean kayak and head a few blocks over to the beach—see if you can catch a wave and ride it in!
Where to Rent a Kayak
South End Surf ’N Paddle – Beach Haven
- Bayview Harbor – Barnegat Light
Holgate H2O Sports – Holgate
Route 72 Waverunner & Kayak – Manahawkin
Windsurfing / Kiteboarding
If you’re into wind-powered adventure, windsurfing and kiteboarders are a must-try on LBI. The bay offers ideal conditions for experienced windsurfers to catch serious speed, while the ocean shoreline comes alive with kiteboarders when the wind really picks up.
New to the sport? No worries—there are great local spots that offer lessons for beginners looking to get their feet (and sails) wet.
Where to Take Windsurfing & Kitesurfing Lessons
Waterpark
Thundering Surf Waterpark is a must-visit while you’re on LBI. With eight giant waterslides, a four-lane mat racer slide, the Lazy Crazy River, and New Jersey’s only FlowRider surf simulator, there’s no shortage of excitement here.
The park also features dedicated family and kiddie areas, making it perfect for all ages. It’s an awesome way to spend the day—especially when the beach is too cloudy or windy.
About the Author
Patrick Johns is a New Jersey writer with a background in engineering and mathematics. He spent his summers on LBI glued to his beach chair reading his next favorite book. He worked at Custard Hut, Country Kettle Chowder, Thundering Surf Waterpark, and Long Beach Island Foundation. After working for a large engineering firm for 3 years outside Washington D.C., he discovered his passion for writing and decided to move to Spain. For 4 years he taught English overseas, wrote and published his own fantasy and poetry books, wrote and performed his own music live, and got involved in many freelance projects like copywriting, editing, and book coaching. Currently back in the US, Patrick is passionate about inspiring people with non-writing backgrounds to gain the confidence, routine, and skills to finally start the book they’ve always wanted to write. He’s convinced his writing journey blossomed from those days reading on the beach in Long Beach Island.
When he’s not writing, you can find him…
🏄 Out in the ocean, surfing some narly waves
📚 Reading whatever he can get his hands on
🗺️ Traveling and seeking inspiration for his next book
Follow Patrick’s writing journey on his website:
www.patrickjohnswrites.com