Watch out for power line and pier pilings on north end. Do not launch everywhere, since it can be very dangerous! No kiter should be launching from across parking lot C (where windsurfers launches) under conditions described. Experience kiters who know the area may be able to get away with it (walking out into the water, low tide permitting) with assisted launch. The problem is that many newbies see kiters launching there an assume it's ok. No problem for windsurfing beginnes.
Winter is very cold. Wetsuit needed in spring and autumn. Summer can be without. Bayside: winter temperatures usually about 38°F, summer 75°F. Ocean: winter temperatures usually 38-45°F, summer 68-72°F.
- March - April - May - September - October - November - December
Wind Type:
- Thermal Winds - Frontal Winds
Best Direction:
- N - S - SSW
Main Direction:
- NW
Best wind is from the North. Easterly wind is onshore on ocean side and offshore on bay side. Westerly is the opposite. Avoid westerly wind if on bayside because of the turbulence from the cliff on the western side of the bay. Bay is considered very good for beginners with South, North, North West wind. Best wind is in spring and fall. SW wind is no good-gets blocked by hills. Avoid this beach on West or East winds as these are either directly onshore or offshore. Thermal winds usually in the summer coming from the WNW. Still not too gusty though.
From New York City, take New Jersey Turnpike south to Garden State Parkway (exit 11). Take GS Parkway south to exit 117. Take Route 36 east for ten miles. Cross bridge and stay on right lane for Sandy Hook. Ferry service from Manhattan to Highlands, NJ, is another option, then take cab to Sandy Hook. Car trip is 1 hr and ten minutes from Holland Tunnel, Jersey side. Summer charge of $10 per vehicle. Park at South Beach Area C and walk across the street to the beach.
Usually no restrictions on the bayside. From Memorial Day until Labor Day there is a $10 vehicle parking fee (until 4pm EST). Only for experienced kiters.
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