The Pandemic Years threw almost everything and everyone, everywhere into turmoil. Even if you wanted to Paddle Sandy Hook, no park access! I had the added situation of having to take care of my wife, who is disabled. And being the outdoorsman I am, naturally it really upended the time I could be away from her . Except if someone steps in to help so I can recharge. You really can’t go Running On Empty! How about then I Paddle Sandy Hook Kayaks?
I live in a town on the edge of Central New Jersey, about 45 minutes driving from the nearest Sea Shore. The small strip of land at about the “waist” of the State facing the Atlantic is know by how it looks. Sandy Hook! And while I’ve known about it and been there a couple of times before, I never thought of visiting regularly. Now however, I decided that a day in just any Park wouldn’t do. The westernmost abutment of Gateway National Recreation Area is also a Natural preserve and former Army post.
But while there is enough to see on land, one needs to Paddle Sandy Hook Kayaks!
Sandy Hook Kayaks
Sandy Hook Kayaks came to be via Brandon Murray, originally from Holmdel. I believe the meaning of “Holmdel” is “Yes, Central Jersey DOES exist!” And if you’re not a Jersey Native, this is our biggest debate since “Is it Pork Roll, or Taylor Ham(and just as much a friendly attack on fellow Jerseyans)! In 2011, he first initiated the operation across from Parking Lot D, about 1/8 mile into the park entrance gate. Once inside, if you’ve never seen the Twin Lights at Navesink, look to the left and a bit upwards. Built in 1828, the Lights narrowly escaped complete ruin in the 1950’s. This incidentally after witnessing and hosting tons of Historic events. For instance, the first station of the US Lifesaving Service, which later merged with the Revenue Cutter Service to form our modern US Coast Guard. One beacon remains active, and the Lighthouse IS open for tours.
But I Digress! Let’s return to Brandon, who would eventually bring his brothers into the business. Then as now, lessons are available, as well as local paddling sessions and throughout the season. That first season resulted in 240 kayak rentals and it would only Expand. Stand-Up Paddleboards (SUP for short) would be soon added. Brandon visualized his vision taking root, and of course shared the wealth accordingly. Therefore, this family business has become a Family-Oriented Must-Partake experience! And again, it would only expand!
Beyond The Hook
URBAN PADDLE: The next view was North, almost in that same distant view you get of the NYC skyline. Namely, Jersey City. Now, who would want to paddle There in such an Urban area? The answer: quite a few people!! Have you ever attended a DJ Party with lights over and beneath the water? Do you want a different view of twilight here on a Sunset Paddle? Additionally is the experience with your pooch on a “Paddle Pups” Kayak Tour. This in addition to maybe the most Unique tour of the Statue Of Liberty ever!
Urban Paddle was created for this, and more!
Not only is this an awesome experience for the Locals in this almost-autonomous Country called New Jersey, you may definitely mark it down should the Big Apple be on our Travel Itinerary!! Why not? Times Square will always be there!!! Besides, “diversification” is Popular now(tongue firmly in cheek).
Regardless however f where you’re reading this simply Visit www.urban-paddle.com to see all their events, schedules, pricing and yes-to Schedule your next outrageous Adventure!!
JERSEY PADDLE: This is the Third, as well as, the Newest gem in this Triple Crown of New Jersey Paddling. Inaugurated in 2022, Jersey Paddle brings you into the not-quite-urban-nor-rural county Seat area of Ocean County. This, ladies and gens, is where SOUTH Jersey starts!! And as the other locales, rentals of Kayaks and SUP Boards, instruction and tours are available. Also, and I saved this for later;
Sales of Anything you may rent at Either location, plus other craft, boards and accessories that will cheerfully help you begin your next Magnificent Obsession!! Onsite and Online! jerseypaddle.com
Book your Desired Event/Reservations: Find Kayak Rentals for one or two. Rent a SUP Board, or schedule private lessons on either. Also inquire of Private Family or Group Events, and my personal Favorite, the Inflatable Islands!!! THE most easy-to-master Watersport Ever!! Finally, if all else fails…
GIFT CARDS fill the bill for the paddler in your life, or gift yourself sometime!! Truly a One Size Fits All idea, starting at US $10!
Brutally SAFE, Veteran Friendly!!
As an Air Force Veteran, I can surely attest to the latter from the first time I made the trip to the Bayshore side of the Park and met Brandon and the Staff. The winds were up that day, and he recognized me as a paddler with experience. So he gave me a complimentary Voyage to decide.
I must stress too that paddling in tidal waters, bays and coves, contain conditions, such as currents you won’t find in a lake. And between us, if you see people Kiteboarding near the Park entrance, chances are you’ll be paddling against the wind. Needless to say, so was I, therefore once reaching the red perimeter marker, I turned back in. And of course, always under watchful eyes!
PADDLE SAFELY! Because there is so much on any body of water that can ruin a good day’s adventure, or worse, If this is your first time around, by all means, take time to learn the basics, or enroll for Lessons at either location. You can be assured that there is ample, experienced staff. 3-4 will be on staff at both Sandy Hook and Urban Paddle, with 1-2 at Jersey Paddle, Toms River. Also the brothers as well as Brandon, who will be at one location or the other.
Again, it’s not just my experience that day and with subsequent trips thereafter that makes the operation Veteran Friendly. Brandon and the Murray Fam have only the deepest appreciation for those who have served our Nation, whether at war or in Peacetime!
Each Location is open 7 days a week, weather permitting, usually well into October. That doesn’t mean you should WAIT that long however!! Summer and “second season” go by pretty quickly!! If you are in the NJ/NY/PA area, or plan to be, or if you’re Surfing the Net as we speak, you can Always contact them!!
sandyhookkayaks.com urban-paddle.com jerseypaddle.com Because Life IS Better When You Paddle!!
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