Kayaking in Sandy Hook Bay, Gateway National Recreation Area
There are two places to launch hand-paddled watercraft within the Sandy Hook Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area. Both are on Sandy Hook Bay, not the Atlantic Ocean. The closest to the park entrance is across from Parking Lot C (parking fees apply from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend). Kayak and stand-up paddleboards are available for rent on location from Sandy Hook Kayaks. This location is also used for windsurfing and kiteboarding.
Wind surfers preparing their equipment for adventure on Sandy Hook Bay at Gateway National Recreation Area
A second location is at Horseshoe Cove. The launch area is directly across from Parking Lot H, but unfortunately this lot is for Camp Gateway Sandy Hook patrons only, and you will get a ticket for parking there without a camping permit. There is a small roadside parking area next to the cove, but this can only hold a half-dozen vehicles at most. The next closest parking lot is Lot L a quarter mile to the south. There is no fee to park there.
Satellite view of Horseshoe Cove
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Last updated on December 19, 2022
