Kayaking Gear Guide
Everything you need to explore the Jersey Shore's back bays, rivers, and inlets. From stable sit-on-tops to touring kayaks, plus paddles, PFDs, and accessories.
The Jersey Shore offers incredible kayaking opportunities - from peaceful back bay paddles to exploring wildlife-rich marshes and tidal creeks. Having the right gear makes all the difference for comfort and safety on the water.
Kayak & Paddle Comparison
Sit-on-Top Kayak
Pelican
Pelican Argo 100X - Recreational Sit-in Kayak - 10 ft - Fade Deep Blue/WhiteStable, self-draining, easy to get back on if you flip.
$434.99
Check Current PriceKayak Paddle (230-240cm)
Hornet Watersports
Hornet Watersports Graphic Fiberglass Kayak Paddle- Ideal for Touring, Fishing and Boating- 90.5 inches / 230CM Adjustable with Carbon Fiber Shaft - Kayak Oars Kayaking Equipment (Blue Scales)Fiberglass blade with aluminum shaft is a good starter combo.
$169.99
Check Current PriceDry Bag
Earth Pak
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag - Roll Top Waterproof Backpack Sack Keeps Gear Dry for Kayak with Waterproof Phone CaseKeep phone and keys dry. Essential for any paddle.
$21.99
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Kayaks, Paddles & Accessories
Paddle-ready essentials
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Quality kayaking gear from trusted brands for paddlers of all levels.
Sit-on-Top Kayak
Stable, self-draining, easy to get back on if you flip.
Kayak Paddle (230-240cm)
Fiberglass blade with aluminum shaft is a good starter combo.
Hornet Watersports
Hornet Watersports Graphic Fiberglass Kayak Paddle- Ideal for Touring, Fishing and Boating- 90.5 inches / 230CM Adjustable with Carbon Fiber Shaft - Kayak Oars Kayaking Equipment (Blue Scales)
Best Marine and Outdoors
Best Marine and Outdoors Carbon Fiber Kayak Paddle for Adults – Lightweight 2-Piece Paddle with Fiberglass Reinforced Blades, Adjustable Feather Angles, Floating Design, 220cm 234cm 250cm
Dry Bag
Keep phone and keys dry. Essential for any paddle.
Earth Pak
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag - Roll Top Waterproof Backpack Sack Keeps Gear Dry for Kayak with Waterproof Phone Case
Earth Pak
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag - Roll Top Waterproof Backpack Sack Keeps Gear Dry for Kayak with Waterproof Phone Case
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Safety Equipment
Safety first on the water
USCG approved gear
PFDs, whistles, and safety essentials required for NJ waters.
Adult Life Jacket
USCG approved. Required for paddling beyond bathing areas.
STEARNS
Stearns Adult Classic Series Life Vest, USCG Approved Type III Life Jacket with Standard & Oversized Fits, Great for Boating, Swimming, Watersports, & More
STEARNS
Stearns Adult Classic Series Life Vest, USCG Approved Type III Life Jacket with Standard & Oversized Fits, Great for Boating, Swimming, Watersports, & More
Kids Life Jacket
USCG approved for kids. Check weight rating.
STEARNS
Stearns Kids Life Vest, USCG Approved Type III Life Jacket for Children 50 to 90 lbs, Youth PFD for Boating, Swimming, Watersports, Pool, Beach, & More, red
STEARNS
Stearns Kids Life Vest, USCG Approved Type III Life Jacket for Children 30 to 50 lbs, Youth PFD for Boating, Swimming, Watersports, Pool, Beach, & More, Red
Safety Whistle
Attach to PFD. Required for paddle sports in many areas.
LuxoGear
LuxoGear Emergency Whistles with Lanyard Safety Whistle Survival Shrill Loud Blast for Kayak Life Vest Jacket Boating Fishing Boat Camping Hiking Hunting Rescue Signaling Kids Lifeguard Plastic 2 Pack
AUGSUN
AUGSUN 10 Pcs Safety Whistle Marine Whistle Plastic Whistles with Lanyard for Emergency (Red and Orange)
Waterproof First Aid Kit
Compact, waterproof kit for beach and water activities.
First Aid Only
Pac-Kit Watertight Explorer 1 First Aid Kit for Hiking, Camping and Outdoor Activities, 67 Pieces
Vriexsd
VRIEXSD Premium First Aid Kit, 320 Piece Waterproof Hard Shell Eva First Aid Kit for Home, Camping, Cars, Hiking, Travel, Businesses & Outdoor Emergencies - Emergency Medical Kits (Red)
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Related Gear
NJ Kayaking Tips
Check Tides First
Tidal currents in NJ bays can be strong. Plan your paddle to work with the tide, not against it. Aim to launch at slack tide or with an incoming tide.
Watch for Weather
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Check the forecast and be off the water before storms develop. Wind over 15mph makes paddling difficult.
File a Float Plan
Always tell someone where you're paddling and when you expect to return. Carry a phone in a waterproof case for emergencies.
Respect Wildlife
Keep distance from nesting birds and seals. Many shore areas are protected wildlife habitat - enjoy from a respectful distance.
Popular NJ Kayak Launch Sites
Barnegat Bay
Multiple launch points. Calm bay waters perfect for beginners. Great for fishing kayaks.
Cape May Back Bays
Wildlife-rich marshes and tidal creeks. Excellent birding from a kayak.
Great Egg Harbor River
Scenic river paddling with wildlife. Multiple access points along the river.
Island Beach State Park
Bay-side launches with access to Barnegat Bay. Parking fee required.
Navesink River
Northern shore paddling near Red Bank. Calm waters, scenic views.
Corson's Inlet State Park
Protected inlet with excellent wildlife. Tidal currents require experience.
Paddling Tips & Gear Deals
Weekly tide forecasts, launch site updates, and exclusive gear discounts.
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Kayaking Gear FAQs
What type of kayak is best for the Jersey Shore?▼
Sit-on-top kayaks are ideal for NJ's back bays and inlets - they're stable, self-draining, and easy to re-enter if you flip. For calm bays, a recreational kayak (10-12ft) works well. For open water and longer trips, consider a touring kayak (14-16ft) with better tracking.
Do I need a life jacket for kayaking in New Jersey?▼
Yes. Coast Guard regulations require a USCG-approved PFD (Personal Flotation Device) when paddling beyond designated bathing areas. Children under 13 must wear a life jacket at all times on any vessel in NJ waters. Inflatable PFDs are acceptable for adults.
What size kayak paddle do I need?▼
Paddle length depends on your height and kayak width. For most recreational kayaks, 220-240cm paddles work well. Taller paddlers (6ft+) or wider kayaks need longer paddles (240cm+). A fiberglass blade with aluminum shaft is a good balance of weight and cost.
Where can I kayak at the Jersey Shore?▼
Popular spots include the Barnegat Bay, Great Egg Harbor River, Cape May back bays, Manasquan River, and Navesink River. Many state parks like Island Beach State Park and Corson's Inlet offer launch sites. Always check tide times and weather conditions before paddling.
What should I bring kayaking at the shore?▼
Essential items: PFD, paddle, whistle (required), dry bag for phone/keys, water, sunscreen, and a hat. For longer trips add: snacks, first aid kit, paddle float, and bilge pump. Always tell someone your paddle plan before heading out.
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