Top 15 Things To Do in Somers Point, New Jersey
A narrow ribbon of bayside charm, Somers Point is a low-slung destination where boat slips, bird calls, and salt-washed sidewalks set the tempo. This guide stitches together short boat tours, easy bike loops, and morning paddles into a practical playbook—perfect for weekend escapes, family outings, and anglers chasing first light on the bay.
Top 15 Things To Do in Somers Point
Ranked by number of available trips • Each activity type links to all experiences
Why Somers Point Belongs on Your Bayside Itinerary
Somers Point is an exercise in easy geometry: boardwalks, marinas, and tidal creeks that fold inward from Great Egg Harbor Bay. The town’s personality is quietly nautical—morning launches from public ramps, families lining the promenade at dusk, and the steady clack of oars from a passing canoe. For travelers who prize access over altitude, Somers Point delivers a compact palette of water activities—boat tours that drift past marsh islands, kayak and SUP runs that thread sheltered inlets, and fishing charters that launch from modest docks.
Beyond the boats, there’s a regional rhythm worth chasing. Bike rentals and casual bike tours let you trace the shoreline between coves and coastal parks; eco-tours and sightseeing tours translate the marsh’s subtle ecology into stories about migratory birds and crabs. In summer you’ll find paddleboarding and surf lessons along nearby surf breaks; in shoulder seasons the place turns contemplative—quiet mornings, crisp air, and narrower crowds on trails and tide-lines. For families and less-experienced adventurers, Somers Point is forgiving: short paddles, calm bays, and a strong network of outfitters who handle gear and local logistics.
Practicality underpins the charm. Outfitters in town simplify boat rentals, guided kayak tours, and dolphin-spotting excursions, while local lodging and casual restaurants mean you can stack sunrise casts, midday bike loops, and evening waterfront meals without long transfers. If you’re building a multi-day escape, use Somers Point as a low-stress base for exploring the larger New Jersey Shore—Atlantic City’s boardwalk culture is a short drive away, while quieter beaches and state parks sit within easy reach. The town rewards plans that mix waterborne minutes with land-based relaxation: a morning SUP, an afternoon canoe, and a sunset boat tour make for the kind of day you remember because it felt simple and complete.
Access is the advantage: multiple public launch points, rental shops, and short shuttle runs mean you can pick an activity based on tide and wind without heavy planning. That flexibility spins a one-day sampler into a comfortable long weekend.
The scene skews practical—think family-friendly boat tours, accessible kayaking around tidal creeks, and reliable fishing charters—making Somers Point a smart stop for mixed-skill groups who want outdoors time without technical commitment.
Best Time to Visit
Best Months
Weather Notes
Late spring through early fall offers the mildest water temperatures and the most predictable weather for boat tours, paddling, and fishing. Summer brings busier weekends and warmer water; shoulder seasons are cooler and quieter with fewer services.
Peak Season
Summer weekends—expect higher demand for rentals, boat tours, and family-friendly activities.
Off-Season Opportunities
Late spring and early fall provide cooler, less-crowded conditions for birding, eco tours, and fishing; some outfitters reduce hours so book ahead.
Choose Your Adventure Level
Beginner
Short, sheltered paddles, guided boat tours, and relaxed bike rentals—low exposure to wind and current make these activities approachable.
- Guided eco tour of tidal creeks
- Half-day SUP on a sheltered bay cove
- Leisurely bike rental along the waterfront
Intermediate
Longer open-bay paddles, shore-based fishing, and afternoon boat rentals that require basic navigation and tide awareness.
- Self-guided kayak loop across a bay inlet
- Half-day fishing charter targeting nearshore species
- Bike tour connecting Somers Point to neighboring coastal parks
Advanced
Open-water crossings, surf sessions nearby, and technical boat handling in stronger tides or winds—skills, planning, and local weather knowledge are essential.
- Open-bay paddle with experienced crew or guide
- Surf session at nearby barrier-island breaks
- Navigating a rented powerboat in tidal channels
What to Bring
Essential
- Personal flotation device for paddle sports (often supplied by outfitters but bring your own if you prefer)
- Sunscreen and a brimmed hat—bay glare is strong
- Waterproof phone pouch or small dry bag
- Comfortable footwear for docks and rocky shorelines
- Reusable water bottle and light snacks
Recommended
- Wind layer or light shell for breezy mornings on the bay
- Sunglasses with retention strap for paddling
- Small first-aid kit and blister prevention supplies
- Insect repellent for shore-side marsh walks
Optional
- Compact binoculars for birding and dolphin spotting
- Fishing license and basic tackle if you plan to fish from shore or shallow water
- Action camera with float mount
Insider Tips & Local Knowledge
Check tide tables and local wind forecasts, confirm operator hours, and practice conservative turnaround times on the water.
Start early for calmer water and better light—mornings often provide the smoothest paddling conditions and more active wildlife. Reserve rentals and charter slots on summer weekends, and ask outfitters about sheltered launch options when winds pick up. For better wildlife viewing, plan eco- and dolphin tours around incoming tides, and bring binoculars. If you’re fishing, verify license requirements and local catch rules. Finally, pair active days with relaxed evenings at bayside restaurants to keep logistics simple and travel time minimal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent a kayak or SUP without a reservation?
Yes during weekdays and in shoulder seasons; on summer weekends and holidays it's best to reserve—popular outfitters can sell out mid-morning.
Are boat tours suitable for kids?
Most family-focused boat tours in Somers Point are appropriate for children, but verify age limits and life-jacket availability with the operator before booking.
Will I see dolphins on local tours?
Dolphin sightings occur, especially on broader bay and inlet tours, but they aren’t guaranteed—opt for a longer eco- or dolphin-focused outing to increase chances.