Ocean City, New Jersey, known for its beautiful beaches and family-friendly atmosphere, is also an excellent starting point for sailing adventures. Located on the Atlantic coast, Ocean City provides access to a variety of exciting destinations, each offering unique experiences and scenic beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring quaint coastal towns, pristine islands, or bustling harbors, here are the five best places to sail from Ocean City, NJ.
Just about 12 nautical miles to the north of Ocean City lies Atlantic City, it's is one of the most popular sailing destinations in New Jersey and a destination that combines vibrant city life with the serene beauty of the ocean. Sailing to Atlantic City offers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. As you approach the city by sea, the skyline with its iconic casinos, hotels, and boardwalk emerges, providing a unique perspective that land travelers often miss.
The journey from Ocean City to Atlantic City is relatively short, making it an excellent day trip for sailors. Once you dock at one of Atlantic City's marinas, such as the Golden Nugget Marina or Farley State Marina, you can explore the city’s many attractions. The famous Atlantic City Boardwalk is a must-visit, offering a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. If you’re feeling lucky, you can try your hand at one of the many casinos. For a more relaxed experience, the beaches in Atlantic City are beautiful and perfect for a day of sunbathing or a stroll along the shore.
For those interested in culture and history, the Atlantic City Historical Museum and Absecon Lighthouse are intriguing stops. As night falls, the city’s lights reflect off the water, creating a mesmerizing scene that makes the return sail to Ocean City equally captivating.
Cape May, located approximately 35 nautical miles to the southwest of Ocean City, is one of the most picturesque and historically rich destinations along the Jersey Shore. The sail to Cape May takes you along the scenic coastline, where you can enjoy the view of unspoiled beaches and perhaps even spot some dolphins playing in the waves.
Cape May is renowned for its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, and the entire town has been designated as a National Historic Landmark. The Cape May Harbor is well-equipped for sailors, with several marinas offering all the amenities you might need.
Once in Cape May, you can explore the charming streets lined with colorful Victorian houses, visit the Cape May Lighthouse, or enjoy a wine tasting at one of the local wineries. The town also has a thriving culinary scene, with seafood being a particular highlight. Dining at one of the waterfront restaurants is a delightful experience, offering fresh local catches with stunning views.
Cape May’s beaches are pristine and perfect for relaxation after your sail. Additionally, birdwatchers will find Cape May a paradise, as it’s a major migratory stopover for birds, particularly in the fall.
For those looking for a more nature-oriented sailing experience, the Great Egg Harbor River and Bay, situated just north of Ocean City, offers an incredible opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region. The river meanders through a diverse landscape of wetlands, forests, and meadows before emptying into the Great Egg Harbor Bay.
Sailing along the Great Egg Harbor River is a peaceful experience, ideal for those who enjoy wildlife watching. The area is home to a variety of bird species, including ospreys, herons, and bald eagles, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers. The river and surrounding areas are also part of the Great Egg Harbor Scenic and Recreational River, a designation that highlights the region’s environmental significance.
The bay itself is a broad, shallow expanse of water, perfect for leisurely sailing. The calm waters are ideal for less experienced sailors or those who prefer a more relaxed sailing experience. The surrounding marshlands and barrier islands provide a tranquil setting, far removed from the hustle and bustle of Ocean City.
For a unique adventure, you can explore the hidden creeks and coves along the river, which are perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. The historic town of Mays Landing is also accessible via the river, offering a glimpse into the region’s colonial past.
Sailing into the Delaware Bay from Ocean City offers a more challenging and adventurous experience, suited for those who enjoy longer sails and open waters. The Delaware Bay lies to the west of Ocean City and can be accessed by navigating through the Cape May Canal or sailing around the southern tip of New Jersey.
The bay is one of the largest estuaries in the United States and provides a rich sailing experience with its wide, open waters and diverse marine life. The bay is also a critical habitat for horseshoe crabs and is a vital stopover for migratory birds, especially during the spring.
Sailing on the Delaware Bay allows you to explore a less developed and more rugged part of the region. The bay is bordered by marshes and low-lying wetlands, and the coastline is dotted with small, historic towns such as Lewes, Delaware. Lewes is known for its maritime history and is a great stopover if you’re sailing the bay. The town offers quaint streets, historic landmarks like the Zwaanendael Museum, and several excellent seafood restaurants.
For those interested in history, the Delaware Bay was a strategic location during World War II, and you can visit sites like the Fort Miles Historic Area in Cape Henlopen State Park. The park also offers hiking trails, beaches, and spectacular views of the bay.
Heading north from Ocean City, about 40 nautical miles away, Barnegat Bay is a prime destination for sailors seeking a blend of recreational activities and natural beauty. The bay is a long, shallow body of water separated from the Atlantic Ocean by a series of barrier islands, making it an ideal spot for sheltered sailing.
Barnegat Bay is popular for its calm waters, which are perfect for both novice and experienced sailors. The bay is a hub for water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The surrounding area is dotted with small towns and communities that cater to boaters, such as Toms River and Lavallette, each offering unique attractions and dining options.
One of the highlights of sailing on Barnegat Bay is the opportunity to visit Barnegat Lighthouse, also known as “Old Barney.” The lighthouse stands at the northern tip of Long Beach Island and offers panoramic views of the bay and the Atlantic Ocean from its top. The surrounding Barnegat Lighthouse State Park is a great spot for picnicking and birdwatching.
Barnegat Bay’s ecosystem is rich with wildlife, and the marshlands and tidal creeks that feed into the bay are home to a variety of birds, fish, and other marine life. The calm waters of the bay are also a great place to drop anchor and enjoy a swim, or simply relax on your boat and take in the serene surroundings.
