This is not exactly a beach to ride at, but it's a good spot to launch and land for downwinders. Be aware of people fishing from the beach. Don't get into their lines.
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.
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. Check out www.seastreak.com for ferry rides from NYC.
On ocean side, off limit in swim areas in the summer when lifeguards are on duty. Easy parking if not on summer weekends. Awesome for downwinder with either South or North wind. There is an unwritten rule that restricts access to kitesurfers on the ocean side from Memorial Day to Labor Day. This rule has gained further credence with piping plovers that have decided to nest on the beach the last few seasons. If lifeguards don't boot you, you are likely to get a summons from park rangers, who I've even seen pull kiters out of the water mid session. Given the fact that Sandy Hook is the premier kiting spot in close proximity to NYC and the Tri-State burbs, and because it works on most wind directions, the kiting crew is paranoid of any incidents or mishaps that could endanger access. From memorial day until labor day there is a $10 vehicle parking fee (until 4pm EST).
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