Manasquan Inlet / New Jersey / United States

Manasquan is New Jersey’s replica of Florida’s Sebastian Inlet. It too has a rocky jetty which refracts the water, creating some of the most powerful wave conditions in all of New Jersey. Because of this jetty, you’ll always find some kind of action – even when all the other spots have been ill-fated with a bout of flatness. Manasquan has its own surfing cult; the locals that you might have spotted ten years ago are probably still surfing here today.

The Atlantic Ocean can be a fierce force, but the Manasquan Inlet is a resilient opponent. Surfing can be enjoyed here all year round.

When the southeast swell appears, the inlets takes in 20 ft waves and create two top peaks and an amazing left. This wasn’t always the case, however. A sand replenishing effort in the 1990’s destroyed Manasquan’s sandbar and the waves disappeared. Over time, the sand returned to the area, along with those two favorite bowled peaks. The other great thing about this inlet is the refractory abilities of the jetty; even the smallest of waves bounce off the jetty to produce something that surfers can enjoy. And, unlike Sebastian Inlet, Manasquan will give you a long ride.

You can reach Manasquan Inlet along Ocean Boulevard. In the summer time, New Jersey charges $5 for a season pass. At the inlet, you can choose to eat cheap pub food or gourmet cuisine, but all are priced at the hefty beach price. The only disappointing thing about Manasquan is that there are literally no places to stay. The community is made up of 1950s beach cottages that serve as permanent residences, so it’s advisable to check out the nearby suburbs like Pleasant Point for a hotel. Manasquan has one famous surf shop that has been around for 28 years.

Fishing is big here, so watch out for the lures.