Are you looking for an adventurous, wild water experience? If so, Kayaking Cape May is the perfect destination! You can explore vast seascapes and encounter wildlife in their natural habitat. Experience the thrills of wild water adventure and get a unique perspective of Cape May’s natural beauty!
Kayaking in Cape May
Kayaking in Cape May is an exciting way to explore the beautiful coastline of the southern New Jersey region. Whether you are an experienced kayaker or a novice, this guide will provide you with the essential information you need to make your trip a success. Cape May offers a variety of landscapes, from serene open water bays to protected marsh estuaries. The tranquil backwaters are perfect for beginner and intermediate kayakers alike, while those looking for more challenge will find it among the surf and crashing waves along the area’s outer beaches.
Safety should always be your top priority when engaging in any watersport. It is important that all kayakers wear appropriate safety gear including lifejackets, helmets and whistles. All vessels should also be equipped with all necessary navigational equipment such as maps and lights as well as distress signals in case of emergency.
Whether you are planning for a day trip or an extended stay, there are plenty of options for where to launch your kayak in Cape May. Local outfitters offer boat rentals or guided tours that provide transportation from launch point to destination making it easy even for first-time paddlers . Other popular places to put-in include local state parks and marinas along route 47 and Sandy Hook Bay which provide excellent access points by road or footbridge if necessary.
Cape May provides endless opportunities for both novice and experienced paddlers alike to explore its stunning waterscapes—from picturesque lagoons full of wildlife to striking coastal vistas at sunset! Now that you have this information at your fingertips, get out there and start paddling!
What To Bring On a Kayaking Trip
Kayaking through the picturesque views of Cape May requires some thoughtful planning and preparation. Located in southern New Jersey, the beautiful estuaries of Cape May offer a peaceful escape for anyone wanting to explore the local marshes and streams. Staying safe and enjoying your time on the water starts with packing the right kayaking essentials. Here are some important items to consider taking on your next kayaking trip:
- Life vest – A life vest is essential for every kayaker, no matter their experience level. In addition to wearing it at all times while you’re on the water, keep an extra in your kayak as a backup in case of emergency.
- Weather protection – The weather in southern New Jersey can be unpredictable, ranging from sunny skies to rain showers and everything in between. Come prepared with lightweight layers that can be added or removed as conditions change during your adventure. Look for garments made from fabrics that are waterproof and fast drying to keep you safe and comfortable throughout your trip.
- Drinking water – Dehydration is one of the most common risks associated with water-based activities, so always bring enough potable drinking water for yourself and any companions who are joining you on your expedition. Pack large reusable bottles that can be easily refilled at public docks or convenience stores during your break times along shorelines.
- Safety gear – As a minimum, make sure you bring extra paddles, whistle signals including hand signals if paddling in groups, lights for activity before sunrise or after sunset, bright clothing worn over life vests for improved visibility when sharing waterways with motorboats, anchor lines or predetermined holds near land points if needed due to weather conditions or tides changes; repair kits including duct tape and spare tarpaulin; floodlights such as cold-light lanterns when camping overnight; first-aid kits; maps; sun protection such as hats/visors/ sunglasses/sunscreen etc. While these items may seem like common sense at first glance think of them this way: Are there any potentialities where you need something else beyond what’s listed? An informed kayaker is always prepared!
The Best Kayaking Routes in Cape May
The majestic New Jersey coastal town of Cape May is the ideal spot for taking a leisurely kayak trip. Kayaking in the area allows you to explore both aquatic and land life in the area, as you experience its incredible waterways, marshes and estuaries with gorgeous shoreline views. From trails through its many wildlife refuges to migrating whales and waterfowl offshore, there is something for everyone to enjoy on a kayaking excursion in Cape May. Here are some of the best kayaking routes for exploring the town:
- Sea Girt Refuge Trail: This trail is perfect for those looking to take a leisurely paddle around Cape May’s beautiful wildlife refuge. Paddle your way through this stunning refuge while observing its varied shore bird habitats, tidal pooling sites, salt marsh creeks, backwaters, mudflats and oyster bars. You may even be able to catch a glimpse of some rare Atlantic horseshoe crabs or herons along your journey.
- Cape May Harbor Loop Trail: If you’re looking for an activity with stunning views, this five-mile circular loop trail passes around several idyllic bodies of water including Townsend’s Inlet, Moshulu Creek North and South Cut Channel. As you paddle by sandy beaches and private houses along the way, be sure to look out for dolphins or seals that can sometimes be spotted close by too!
- Miss Chris Marina Trail: Starting from Miss Chris Marina at the very tip of South Cape May Meadows Barrier Island Nature Preserve provides an exciting opportunity to explore lush Bald Eagle habitats up close on a kayak ride. This eight mile loop also lets you include some sightseeing activities like visiting lighthouses near Lake Lily through your journey before eventually leading back towards Miss Chris Marina again.
What To Expect From the Weather In Cape May
When planning your kayaking trip to Cape May, one of the most important things to consider is the weather. Conditions on land and sea can change quickly, so it’s important to be prepared.
Be aware that Cape May is located in a temperate climate with breezy winds and moderate temperatures throughout the year. In summer, you can expect hot and humid days with bright sunshine followed by cool nights. Average summer temperatures range from 79°F (26°C) in June up to 83°F (28°C) at the peak of August. Fall brings cooler temperatures ranging from 59°F (15°C) in September to 43°F (6°C) in November. Occasional cold fronts can bring strong winds and chilly rain showers so it’s best to bring layers when you head out for your kayaking trip this time of year.
Winter temperatures usually range from 33-40 °F (1-4 °C), but occasional cold spells can cause surface waters to freeze over on occasion due to strong northerly wind patterns coming off the bay. Snowfall averages only about 2-3 inches per year, so winter kayaking is often still doable if you prepare correctly for colder weather conditions and take precautions against hypothermia or exposed skin issues like sunburns or chafing caused by wet clothing and exposure fatigue while out paddling on the open water.
Springtime sees an increase in warmer temperatures ranging from 44 °F (7 °C) in March up through 70 °F (21 ° C) at the end of May into early June. Although rain showers are frequent during these months, they often pass quickly making it an ideal season for taking a pleasant excursion on a kayak around Cape May’s scenic coastlines.
Kayaking Tours In Cape May
Cape May, New Jersey is the ideal destination for kayaking, boasting a diverse shoreline with a variety of oceanic ecosystems. With its rolling sand dunes, beautiful beaches and calm back bays, kayakers can enjoy a serene experience along the New Jersey Shore.
If you’re looking for unparalleled access to waterfront wildlife and natural sites, consider booking an organized tour with an experienced guide. With professional instruction during their tour experiences, your group can learn unique perspectives on the diverse marine life and natural habitats of Cape May while paddling through calm waters.
From breaching dolphins to nesting osprey, these tours typically provide small-group eco-tours within some of Cape May’s most beautiful environments. Whether you are looking for a tranquil guided paddle through salt marsh meadows or an exhilarating open-ocean exploration full of waves and winds – there are kayaking tours available that cater to all levels of experience and interests in Cape May Whether you want to explore the delicate beauty of Cape Mays’s ecotourism sites or simply want to soak up the stunning vistas along its pristine shoreline – kayaking tours provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy all that the area has to offer.
Kayak Rentals In Cape May
Kayaking is an immensely popular activity in the picturesque town of Cape May, with its beautiful quiet waterways and abundant wildlife. With so many places to explore, kayaking can be a great way to get some exercise and a view of Cape May from the water. If you are looking for a reliable kayak rental service to get you out on the water, these businesses offer quality rentals in various locations around town. Avalon Beach and Kayak Rentals at 5811 Ocean Dr. is a one stop shop for all your paddling needs, offering kayaks of various sizes as well as paddleboards, canoes and life jackets for rent by the hour or day.
Cape Island Kayaks is located just off Rt 9 in Cold Spring Village and has a great selection of kayaks from some of the top brands on the market. Whether it’s your own private adventure or group trip they have something available to suit your needs. They also offer half day trips that are tailored to take advantage of all that Cape May has to offer such as lighthouses, seals & osprey nests along with other wildlife sightings throughout the back bay areas.
Beachfront Rentals at 406 E Mechanic St operates daily 8am-6pm during summer season offering single and double sailboat style recreational & recreational/fishing kayaks which include paddles/backrests/spray covers & life vests included within rental rate making it easy & convenient for anyone wanting to enjoy some time out on our pristine waterways in their own personal boat!
The Beach Creek Oyster Bar & Grill offers convenient full day rentals from 8am-4pm where customers can rent two person kayaks with paddles included within their low cost rates making this one stop shop a great option when looking for an all around great day on the bay complete with restaurant destination afterwards! Whether you’re looking to experience local flavors or relax after a long day on the water, there are countless options to explore in Cape May. Indulge in local cuisine while admiring stunning waterfront scenery – you’ll never run out of reasons to come back!
