Asbury Park, New Jersey, is a city located on the eastern coast of the United States, known for its lively boardwalk, thriving music scene, and historic architecture. But there’s much more to this coastal community than meets the eye. Asbury Park is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of exciting sports and activities for those who love to explore nature and test their limits.
Whether you’re a seasoned surfer looking for the perfect wave, an avid hiker seeking new trails to conquer, or a skilled angler hoping to reel in the catch of a lifetime, Asbury Park and its surrounding areas have something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best sports and activities in and around Asbury Park, NJ, from surfing and skating to hiking and fishing.
Surf In Asbury Park, NJ 07712
Asbury Park, New Jersey 07712, USA
If you find yourself in the vicinity of this beautiful coastal city, don’t forget to throw your board into the car – even though it’s not renowned as a premier surfing destination, Asbury Park is still worth checking out for wave riders. So why not take advantage of the opportunity and take a journey down to Asbury Park with your surfboard? You may be pleasantly surprised by what you find and will no doubt have an unforgettable experience!
If you’re looking for a great spot to surf during the summer months, Asbury Park’s 8th Avenue North Jetty is the perfect place. The beach near this jetty is ideal for surfing and offers a variety of peaks suitable for all levels of experience. However, once Labor Day has passed and Memorial Day approaches, it’s the open season – you can surf wherever you find yourself a good wave!
If you are fortunate, you may be able to witness a magnificent summer tropical storm of hurricane swell. Even though the surf may not be outstanding, there is still much more to discover in this charming Jersey Shore city. Simply take the exit off the Garden State Parkway and come explore all that this delightful place has to offer.
Fishing Spots Near Asbury Park
Shark River Inlet
The Shark River Inlet is a popular fishing spot located in nearby Belmar, New Jersey. This area is known for its rich biodiversity, with anglers often catching a variety of fish including striped bass, bluefish, fluke, and sea bass. The inlet offers both surf fishing and boat fishing opportunities, making it a versatile spot for anglers to explore.
Navesink River
The Navesink River is a popular fishing destination located in nearby Red Bank, New Jersey. This tidal river offers a variety of fish species, including striped bass, bluefish, fluke, weakfish, and blackfish. Anglers can fish from shore, docks, or boats and enjoy the scenic views of the river and surrounding area.
Manasquan Reservoir
The Manasquan Reservoir not only offers great hiking trails but is also a popular fishing spot located in Howell Township, New Jersey. The reservoir is stocked with various fish species, including bass, trout, catfish, and panfish. Anglers can fish from the shoreline, boat, or kayak and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the park.
Spring Lake
Spring Lake is a small coastal town located in nearby Spring Lake, New Jersey, and is a great spot for surfcasting. This area is known for its bluefish, striped bass, and fluke. Anglers can fish from the beach, jetties, or boats.
Sandy Hook Bay
Sandy Hook Bay is a large bay located in nearby Middletown, New Jersey, and is a great spot for both saltwater and freshwater fishing. This area offers a variety of fish species, including striped bass, fluke, bluefish, and weakfish. Anglers can fish from the shore, boats, or kayaks and enjoy the scenic views of the bay.
Belmar Fishing Club
The Belmar Fishing Club is located in nearby Belmar, New Jersey, and is a private fishing club for members. The club offers access to a pier and clubhouse, as well as various fishing events and tournaments throughout the year. This club is a great option for serious anglers looking to join a community of fellow fishing enthusiasts.
Hiking Near Asbury Park
Hartshorne Woods Park
Hartshorne Woods Park is a 736-acre park located in nearby Highlands, New Jersey. The park features over 14 miles of hiking trails that wind through forests, past historic sites, and offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The park is divided into three areas: Rocky Point, Battery Loop, and Grand Tour, each with its own unique scenery and terrain. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, foxes, and birds of prey.
Allaire State Park
Allaire State Park is a 3,205-acre park located in nearby Wall Township, New Jersey. The park features over 25 miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through forests, fields, and past historic sites. The park’s hiking trails vary in difficulty, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. The park is also home to the Historic Allaire Village, a 19th-century iron-making community that has been restored and preserved.
Manasquan Reservoir
The Manasquan Reservoir is a 770-acre park located in Howell Township, New Jersey. The park features over 7 miles of hiking trails that wind around the reservoir and through surrounding forests. The trails vary in difficulty, with some offering easy strolls and others more challenging terrain. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and turtles.
Clayton Park
Clayton Park is a 500-acre park located in Upper Freehold Township, New Jersey. The park features over 10 miles of hiking trails that wind through forests, fields, and past a lake. The trails vary in difficulty, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and birds of prey.
Sourland Mountain Preserve
The Sourland Mountain Preserve is a 3,000-acre preserve located in nearby Hillsborough Township, New Jersey. The preserve features over 20 miles of hiking trails that wind through forests, fields, and past rocky outcroppings. The trails vary in difficulty, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. The preserve is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bobcats, coyotes, and a variety of bird species.
Cheesequake State Park
Cheesequake State Park is a 1,610-acre park located in nearby Matawan, New Jersey. The park features over 5 miles of hiking trails that wind through forests, and fields, and past a variety of ecosystems. The park’s trails vary in difficulty, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. A range of animals can be found in the park, such as white-tailed deer, foxes, and different types of birds.
No matter your skill level or interests, there are plenty of fishing and surfing spots, and hiking trails near Asbury Park, NJ, to explore and enjoy. From stunning ocean views to peaceful forested paths, these trails offer a chance to reconnect with nature and experience the beauty of the area firsthand.