Surfing
Learn to surf at Ocean City's easy slope-shored beaches. Experienced surfers will find a range of waves, especially when a storm blows up the eastern seaboard. Celebrate the city's surfing heritage at the Marie A. Becker Memorial Longboard Surf Contest annually in September. Hook up with a surf shop where longtime local surfers sponsor a competitive team and can tell you exactly when and where to catch the best waves.
Heritage Surf & Sport
744 West Ave.
Ocean City, NJ 08226-3717
(609) 398-6390
www.heritagesurf.com
Biking
Take advantage of the Haven Avenue Bike Route to cycle more than 20 blocks on a newly designated shared road space. Ocean City sponsors the BikeOCNJ.org website with scenic bike route maps, information on bike rentals in town and a children's bike safety certification program.
Fishing
Charter a boat and guide to Great Egg Harbor Bay to catch flounder or head out into the ocean for a deep-sea fishing adventure. Stay closer to land, and fish from one of the piers that jut out into the ocean from the boardwalk. Fishing pavilions are situated intermittently along the Ocean City beach, offering a protected spot and seating as you cast your line.
Kayaks and Sailboats
Paddle a kayak on an early morning two-hour guided nature tour to see cranes, herons and wildlife around the bay. Or be more ambitious and ride the waves in a rented sea kayak. If you prefer sailing and are experienced, rent a Hobie Wave Catamaran. Wear plenty of sunscreen for protection even if the weather is cloudy.
Bay Cats
316 Bay Ave.
Ocean City, NJ 08826
(609) 391-7960
www.baycats.com
Article Written By Denise Schoonhoven
A seasoned business traveler, Denise Schoonhoven specializes in food, travel, landscaping, design and personal development topics. She has lived and worked in London, San Francisco, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the Pacific Northwest. Schoonhoven hails from the corporate writing world where she authored marketing material, catalogs, presentations and training documents.
