Newly Replenished Beach in NJ for East Winds

rswabsin · Joined: 14 May 2000 Posts: 444 Location: New Jersey

Most older sailors in NJ know of the Spy House or Ideal Beach located on Sandy Hook Bay near Port Monmouth (google Ideal Beach or Port Monmouth). This was always a great spot for east to north east winds but the beach was always kind of nasty. After Sandy, this strip of beach was eroded down for a narrow strip about 50 to 75 feet wide. The Army Corps just finished a huge sand replenishment project along this stretch and have created a beautiful beach complete with nice white sand that's now about 500 feet or more in width. This strip now offers beautiful access to east, northeast and northwest to west winds. Looks like you can actually sail barefoot here now too which was really risky in the past. The only downside now is that's it's a long walk to the water's edge from the lot but you're now out well past any wind shadows from the adjacent land. I didn't have a camera with me when I checked this out today but I'll post some pictures later this week if the forecast holds. If you like sailing Sandy Hook, this spot is definetly worth checking out since it's right off Rt. 36 and offers clean unobstructed winds with the above directions.

Rob

richhotdog · Joined: 23 Apr 2009 Posts: 41

Rob,We plan pn sailing at the Henry Hudson trailhead in Highlands this afternoon. It is also good on east wind. If you don't want to sail solo join us.
Rich

scargo · Joined: 19 May 2007 Posts: 394

Thanks for the heads up. I used to go there quite often. As I think we've discussed, there's sometimes a really nice rolling swell that comes across the bay because the fetch is so long. Nice to hear they have it fixed up, I may have to give it a try this fall.

stephenkmann · Joined: 08 Sep 2014 Posts: 2

Planning on hitting up the beach at the
North end of highlands or Atlantic highlands marina
First light tomorrow ,depending on wind angle

The gate at highlands usually doesn't open til
After 8:00 so it depends on how much I feel like
Lugging gear into the park

Maybe I'll see someone else out there

-=a

richhotdog · Joined: 23 Apr 2009 Posts: 41

The Henry Hudson launch was nice last night. There was a 50 yard wind shadow but good once you got out. I will be there again this afternoon the forecast looks promising.
Rich

stephenkmann · Joined: 08 Sep 2014 Posts: 2

Just getting off the water from Atlantic highlands marina
Wasn't epic but still pretty damned good

Especially out by the navy pier
Large swells and plenty of wind

I stopped by papamora first but it was shut out
(I think it bounces off the highlands)

Marina is still good but I have to get on the SeaStreak
And go to work.