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Local picks in New Jersey

Kid-friendly surf spots

A surf spot that is genuinely welcoming to kids, rather than one where they are seen as a nuisance to the serious crowd.

Based on 665 Opinions
+662
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Updated May 2026
01
Wave Hog Surf Shop image 1
Wave Hog Surf Shop image 2
Wave Hog Surf Shop image 3
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Boutique surf shop with handmade boards and a vintage collection creates a laid-back, community-focused vibe. Staff tailor lessons to all skill levels, offering personalized coaching and easy rentals. The shop stocks top-tier gear and local brands, supporting surfers with quality over hype.

Waves are glassy and peeling, offering great conditions for surfing. Lessons focus on surf etiquette and breaking down techniques into simple steps, with local expertise helping riders improve quickly.

Semi-private surf lessons focus on kids' learning with instructors who act as cheerleaders and teachers. Children as young as 7 catch multiple waves quickly, with staff showing patience and kindness throughout.

People are saying

"The instructors are patient and passionate about teaching kids to surf."

"I learned to surf here and felt safe with great instructors."

"The staff here are super helpful and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

Rentals are available for surfboards, bikes, and beach gear by the hour or day.

2

Surf lessons are tailored for all ages and skill levels, ensuring personalized coaching.

3

The shop offers a selection of local surf brands and handmade boards by the owner.

02
7th Street Surf Shop image 1

Cool old building houses a surf shop with amazing selection of boards and gear. Atmosphere centers on community culture and learning, with experienced instructors offering affordable lessons and surf camps. Prices stand out as very reasonable compared to nearby options.

Friendly staff teach surf lessons that go beyond just waves. Instructors like Frankle and Mini get everyone out surfing quickly with effective teaching and a positive vibe.

Instructors focus on life lessons beyond surfing and keep kids safe and engaged. Surf camps offer daily lessons where kids learn to paddle and catch waves, making it a favorite activity for them.

People are saying

"The instructors are wonderful and so good with the kids."

"The surf instructors here are so positive and effective."

Good to know

1

The cost is $45 for a two-hour lesson, including wetsuit and surfboard rental.

2

Reservations are recommended for surf lessons, especially during peak season.

3

Surf lessons are available for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced.

03
Kona Surf Company image 1

Surf shop with unique local designs and nostalgic atmosphere offers a comfy, welcoming vibe and creative apparel. Music playlist adds to the cool, laid-back energy. Known for top-notch surf gear and reasonable prices.

Offers a huge variety of surf gear including boards, apparel, and accessories for all ages and sizes. Staff provide great customer service with helpful tips on where and when to surf.

A wide range of kids' clothing and surf gear fits children of all ages. Staff help with sizing boards, and kids often leave with new T-shirts, hoodies, or surfboards.

People are saying

"I found their women's clothing to be great quality."

"This surf spot has a huge variety of boards and great surf gear."

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful, it's really Kid Friendly."

Good to know

1

The shop hosts a 'buy before you try on' event on June 28.

2

Kona Surf Company offers a wide variety of surfboards and beach apparel.

3

Expect friendly staff and a clean, organized shopping environment.

04
Bowl Burger Bistro image 1

Bright space with open kitchen and beautiful mural sets a clean, inviting tone. 90s music and pet-friendly patio create a relaxed, welcoming vibe for families and friends. Indoor and outdoor seating options suit various group sizes and weather conditions.

Bowls like the surf and turf combine shrimp and steak cooked to perfection. Burgers and lomo saltado also feature as delicious options.

Kids enjoy smash burgers that are juicy and well-seasoned, along with skirt steak tacos and waffles. Staff and owners show kindness and hospitality that kids appreciate.

People are saying

"This chicken sandwich is juicy, crunchy, and flavorful."

"The hot honey chicken sandwich at Surf Spot is insanely good."

"The smash burgers are a huge hit with the kids."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a 100% halal menu with South Asian influenced dishes.

2

Brunch and lunch specials are available and worth trying.

3

The patio is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

05
Long Branch Beach image 1
Public beach

Public beach offers spacious, clean sand and breathtaking views with a nice boardwalk overlooking volleyball nets. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, attracting those seeking a calm, relaxing experience away from louder shore crowds.

Strong and amazing waves make this spot good for surfing and volleyball. Waves get wavy at times, sometimes too big for kids but usually just right for riding a board.

A giant carousel entertains both kids and adults. The shallow shore makes the beach safe and fun for children. Entrance is free for kids, which adds to the family-friendly vibe.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be clean and beautiful."

"I found the sunrise view breathtaking and beautiful."

"It's really kid friendly, especially with the shallow shore and carousel."

Good to know

1

Admission to Long Branch Beach is $9 per adult; children enter free.

2

Alcohol consumption is prohibited at Long Branch Beach.

3

Parking is ample and clean, but can be difficult during busy times.

06
Island Beach State Park image 1

Natural dunes and woodland trails create a secluded, peaceful atmosphere near the ocean. Beaches remain clean and quiet, with lifeguards and amenities like showers and a bar enhancing the experience. The park offers kayaking on the bay side for quieter water adventures.

Big, aggressive waves make this spot ideal for bodyboarding and surfing. The beach offers clean sand and designated areas for surfers, surf fishers, and dune buggy riders.

Kid-friendly learning activities take place near snack stands during summer. The beach suits day trips with kids, offering spots where kids can swim while adults fish.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be spectacular and beautiful."

"The beach here is super clean, making it really Kid Friendly."

"The Surf Spot scenery is magnificent with the sand dunes."

Good to know

1

Entrance is free until July 1st; after that, a $6 fee applies.

2

Pets are allowed starting at Lot 2, outside the lifeguard area.

3

The park offers kid-friendly learning activities near snack stands during summer.

07
Belmar Beach image 1

Sandy beach with calm waves and warm water offers a quiet, clean setting. A boardwalk with amenities like playgrounds and showers supports family-friendly visits. Lifeguards are present, enhancing safety in a relaxing atmosphere.

Waves vary from not particularly big to breathtaking with some big waves present. The ocean gets deep quickly, limiting surf area, and a $12 beach pass is required for access.

Playground and water activities make it great for kids. Kids under 14 enter free, and food options are available nearby.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be super clean and the waves were perfect."

"It's really kid friendly with playgrounds and water activities."

"The waves here are pretty strong and great for body surfing."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is $10 per person to access the beach.

2

Parking is often difficult to find near the beach.

3

Expect long lines for restrooms during peak season.

08
Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park image 1

Oceanfront park offers a spacious, clean beach with well-maintained amenities like showers, restrooms, and lifeguards. Atmosphere varies from quiet and calm to occasionally loud with music, but generally feels safe and family-friendly. Parking is plentiful and the area includes a playground and concession stand.

Sparkling waves offer great conditions for surfing and bodyboarding. The beach also has many fun waves to jump over and dive into, making it lively for water activities.

Shallow water from shore to waves suits kids of all ages. Plenty of space and a playground for kids make it easy to keep them entertained. Parking sits close to the beach, adding convenience for families.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be beautiful and clean."

"I found the parking was plentiful and easy to access."

"The parking lot is super convenient and Kid Friendly."

Good to know

1

Entry fee and parking require cash only.

2

Lifeguards are on duty until 5 pm for safety.

3

The beach is well-maintained and clean.

09
Sandy Hook Beach image 1

Beach offers stunning Manhattan views and a peaceful, natural setting without commercial distractions. Visitors enjoy clean, spacious areas with showers and picnic facilities amid a calm, family-friendly atmosphere.

Big waves create a fun surfing experience with plenty of action. Water conditions stay perfect for surfing and the natural setting adds to the vibe.

Shallow water near Parking Area B makes it safe for small kids to play. Bathrooms in Section D add convenience for families. The left side stays quiet with no waves, ideal for young children.

People are saying

"This beach is gorgeous, clean, and well-maintained."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with shallow water and plenty of space."

"I found the Surf Spot beautiful and captivating."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $20 at Sandy Hook Beach.

2

You must bring your own bags and take your trash with you because there are no trash cans on site.

3

On Saturdays and Sundays, arriving after 9 AM could result in the beach closing until more cars left.

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