Experience IBSP
Island Beach State Park Naturalists engage with thousands of visitors at Island Beach State Park each year in an effort to showcase the unique ecosystems of New Jersey’s largest undeveloped barrier island. We offer outdoor events and programs for all ages. Our programs are diverse and intended to feed your mind, body and soul with the natural wonders of Island Beach State Park.
**Please note that park entrance fees apply to attend program events**
Upcoming Events
Beginner Surf Fishing Clinic
Join IBSP Naturalists and our famous volunteer “fishing crew” and become a part of the classic sport of surf fishing! Learn how to tie knots, read the beach, which species to catch, and how you can improve your skills!
**IMPORTANT DETAILS**
Meet at the Nature Center, approximately 7 miles south of the park entrance.
All equipment and bait will be provided.
Bring water, sunscreen, bug spray and a snack.
Children must be 10 years or older. Participants 10-18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Participants 16 and older are encouraged to register as a NJ Saltwater Angler. Registration is free and can be completed online https://dep.nj.gov/njfw/fishing/marine/saltwater-registry/
Clamming by Kayak
Clamming by Kayak is Back for 2025!!!
Visit the Sedge Islands Marine Conservation Zone clamming grounds where you will learn all about clamming and why clams are so important to Barnegat Bay.
A Recreational Shellfish Harvesting permit is required to bring home your clams. https://dep.nj.gov/njfw/licenses-and-permits/
**Important Details**
All equipment is provided. No kayaking experience necessary. Must be in good physical condition and 14 years or older to participate. Minors (14-17) must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water, sunscreen, bug spray and a snack. No bare feet.
Trips will run rain or shine. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the Park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Meet a Naturalist at parking lot A21, approximately 8 miles south of the park entrance. Please arrive at least 15-20 minutes prior to the start of the program. Additional parking is located in lot A20.
Surfing Safari
Learn to Surf at IBSP!
Naturalists will teach you about waves and how to read them, with a focus on surfing fundamentals, ocean awareness, and water safety. Great for beginners!
**Important Details**
Ages 8 to 17 only
Meet at the Pavilion at Swimming Area #2, approximately 3.5 miles south of the park entrance.
Bring a towel, sunscreen, bug spray, water, and snack. Wear a bathing suit and a rash guard/sun shirt.
Foam surfboards are provided, but you can bring your own board.
Event is weather dependent and is subject to change with little notice. Lightning and unsafe surf conditions may cause cancellations. There will be no REFUNDS unless the park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Raising Happy Shellfish
Join park naturalists and volunteers from ReClam the Bay at the upweller at the Island Beach Marina!
“There are certain things that all living things require; food, water, sunlight, oxygen. And they need a way to protect themselves from being eaten by predators! To get them started we grow them in a large tank called an upweller. This is really a shellfish nursery.” https://reclamthebay.org/raising-happy-shellfish/
**THIS EVENT IS FREE! PLEASE JUST STOP BY!**
Sedge Island Kayak EcoTour
Explore IBSP’s stunning natural landscapes by kayak!
Join us in New Jersey’s first Marine Conservation Zone for a guided paddle through the Sedge Islands. Learn about the park’s history and the diverse species found throughout IBSP.
**Important Details**
All equipment is provided. No experience necessary. Must be in good physical condition and 14 years or older to participate. Minors (14-17) must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water, sunscreen and bug spray. No bare feet.
Trips will run rain or shine. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the Park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Meet at parking lot A21, approximately 8 miles south of the park entrance. Please arrive at least 15-20 minutes prior to the start of the program. Additional parking is located in lot A20.
Sunset Paddle
A “Serenity at Sunset” Paddle in the Marine Conservation Zone
Join us for a peaceful sunset paddle with our Naturalists, who will guide you on an interpretative paddle through the Sedge Island Marine Conservation Zone. Enjoy the calm clear waters and listen to the sounds of the natural world as you make your way through the Spizzle Creek. End your journey watching the sunset over the Barnegat Bay. You won’t believe you’re in New Jersey!
**Important Details**
All equipment is provided. No experience necessary. Must be in good physical condition and 14 years or older to participate. Minors (14-17) must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water, sunscreen and bug spray. No bare feet. Trips will run rain or shine. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the Park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Meet at parking lot A21, approximately 8 miles south of the park entrance. Please arrive at least 15-20 minutes prior to the start of the program. Additional parking is located in lot A20.
IBSP After Dark
Join our park Naturalists for a guided night hike through the maritime forest and watch the world around you transform as the sun goes down.
After the hike, gather around a beach bonfire and enjoy some smores as you hear about the park’s rich history while viewing the iconic Judge’s Shack. Hear the tales of shipwrecks off our coast, and maybe a ghost story or two!
**Important Details**
Bring a blanket or chair, water, and bug spray.
Children 5 and under are free. There is a moderate hike over the dunes to the beach.
The event will run light rain or shine. There will be no REFUNDS unless the park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Beginner Surf Fishing Clinic
Join IBSP Naturalists and our famous volunteer “fishing crew” and become a part of the classic sport of surf fishing! Learn how to tie knots, read the beach, which species to catch, and how you can improve your skills!
**IMPORTANT DETAILS**
Meet at the Nature Center, approximately 7 miles south of the park entrance.
All equipment and bait will be provided.
Bring water, sunscreen, bug spray and a snack.
Children must be 10 years or older. Participants 10-18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Participants 16 and older are encouraged to register as a NJ Saltwater Angler. Registration is free and can be completed online https://dep.nj.gov/njfw/fishing/marine/saltwater-registry/
Sunset Paddle
A “Serenity at Sunset” Paddle in the Marine Conservation Zone
Join us for a peaceful sunset paddle with our Naturalists, who will guide you on an interpretative paddle through the Sedge Island Marine Conservation Zone. Enjoy the calm clear waters and listen to the sounds of the natural world as you make your way through the Spizzle Creek. End your journey watching the sunset over the Barnegat Bay. You won’t believe you’re in New Jersey!
**Important Details**
All equipment is provided. No experience necessary. Must be in good physical condition and 14 years or older to participate. Minors (14-17) must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water, sunscreen and bug spray. No bare feet. Trips will run rain or shine. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the Park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Meet at parking lot A21, approximately 8 miles south of the park entrance. Please arrive at least 15-20 minutes prior to the start of the program. Additional parking is located in lot A20.
Surfing Safari
Learn to Surf at IBSP!
Naturalists will teach you about waves and how to read them, with a focus on surfing fundamentals, ocean awareness, and water safety. Great for beginners!
**Important Details**
Ages 8 to 17 only
Meet at the Pavilion at Swimming Area #2, approximately 3.5 miles south of the park entrance.
Bring a towel, sunscreen, bug spray, water, and snack. Wear a bathing suit and a rash guard/sun shirt.
Foam surfboards are provided, but you can bring your own board.
Event is weather dependent and is subject to change with little notice. Lightning and unsafe surf conditions may cause cancellations. There will be no REFUNDS unless the park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Sedge Island Kayak EcoTour
Explore IBSP’s stunning natural landscapes by kayak!
Join us in New Jersey’s first Marine Conservation Zone for a guided paddle through the Sedge Islands. Learn about the park’s history and the diverse species found throughout IBSP.
**Important Details**
All equipment is provided. No experience necessary. Must be in good physical condition and 14 years or older to participate. Minors (14-17) must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water, sunscreen and bug spray. No bare feet.
Trips will run rain or shine. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the Park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Meet at parking lot A21, approximately 8 miles south of the park entrance. Please arrive at least 15-20 minutes prior to the start of the program. Additional parking is located in lot A20.
Surfing Safari
Learn to Surf at IBSP!
Naturalists will teach you about waves and how to read them, with a focus on surfing fundamentals, ocean awareness, and water safety. Great for beginners!
**Important Details**
Ages 8 to 17 only
Meet at the Pavilion at Swimming Area #2, approximately 3.5 miles south of the park entrance.
Bring a towel, sunscreen, bug spray, water, and snack. Wear a bathing suit and a rash guard/sun shirt.
Foam surfboards are provided, but you can bring your own board.
Event is weather dependent and is subject to change with little notice. Lightning and unsafe surf conditions may cause cancellations. There will be no REFUNDS unless the park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Raising Happy Shellfish
Join park naturalists and volunteers from ReClam the Bay at the upweller at the Island Beach Marina!
“There are certain things that all living things require; food, water, sunlight, oxygen. And they need a way to protect themselves from being eaten by predators! To get them started we grow them in a large tank called an upweller. This is really a shellfish nursery.” https://reclamthebay.org/raising-happy-shellfish/
**THIS EVENT IS FREE! PLEASE JUST STOP BY!**
Sedge Island Kayak EcoTour
Explore IBSP’s stunning natural landscapes by kayak!
Join us in New Jersey’s first Marine Conservation Zone for a guided paddle through the Sedge Islands. Learn about the park’s history and the diverse species found throughout IBSP.
**Important Details**
All equipment is provided. No experience necessary. Must be in good physical condition and 14 years or older to participate. Minors (14-17) must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water, sunscreen and bug spray. No bare feet.
Trips will run rain or shine. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the Park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Meet at parking lot A21, approximately 8 miles south of the park entrance. Please arrive at least 15-20 minutes prior to the start of the program. Additional parking is located in lot A20.
Clamming by Kayak
Clamming by Kayak is Back for 2025!!!
Visit the Sedge Islands Marine Conservation Zone clamming grounds where you will learn all about clamming and why clams are so important to Barnegat Bay.
A Recreational Shellfish Harvesting permit is required to bring home your clams. https://dep.nj.gov/njfw/licenses-and-permits/
**Important Details**
All equipment is provided. No kayaking experience necessary. Must be in good physical condition and 14 years or older to participate. Minors (14-17) must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water, sunscreen, bug spray and a snack. No bare feet.
Trips will run rain or shine. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the Park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Meet a Naturalist at parking lot A21, approximately 8 miles south of the park entrance. Please arrive at least 15-20 minutes prior to the start of the program. Additional parking is located in lot A20.
Kayak EcoTour & Sedge Islands Natural Resource Education Center
Kayak Trip to Sedge is Back for 2025!
Experience the magic of “Sedge”
Sedge Island Natural Resource Education Center (Sedge) is a 100+ year old duck hunting lodge located off IBSP in New Jersey’s only marine conservation zone. As Sedge is not open to the public, participants have the rare opportunity to explore the house and the secluded private island paradise, rich with history of famous sportsman, historians and conservationists. Options for birding, clamming, seining or simply enjoy the views from the rooftop deck will be guided by our Naturalist team.
**Important Details**
MUST be in Good Physical Condition as this kayak tour is a long and strenuous paddle!
All equipment is provided. No kayaking experience necessary. Must be in good physical condition and 14 years or older to participate. Minors (14-17) must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water, sunscreen, bug spray and a snack. No bare feet.
Trips will run rain or shine. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the Park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Meet at parking lot A21, approximately 8 miles south of the park entrance. Please arrive at least 15-20 minutes prior to the start of the program. Additional parking is located in lot A20.
Beginner Surf Fishing Clinic
Join IBSP Naturalists and our famous volunteer “fishing crew” and become a part of the classic sport of surf fishing! Learn how to tie knots, read the beach, which species to catch, and how you can improve your skills!
**IMPORTANT DETAILS**
Meet at the Nature Center, approximately 7 miles south of the park entrance.
All equipment and bait will be provided.
Bring water, sunscreen, bug spray and a snack.
Children must be 10 years or older. Participants 10-18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Participants 16 and older are encouraged to register as a NJ Saltwater Angler. Registration is free and can be completed online https://dep.nj.gov/njfw/fishing/marine/saltwater-registry/
Sunset Paddle
A “Serenity at Sunset” Paddle in the Marine Conservation Zone
Join us for a peaceful sunset paddle with our Naturalists, who will guide you on an interpretative paddle through the Sedge Island Marine Conservation Zone. Enjoy the calm clear waters and listen to the sounds of the natural world as you make your way through the Spizzle Creek. End your journey watching the sunset over the Barnegat Bay. You won’t believe you’re in New Jersey!
**Important Details**
All equipment is provided. No experience necessary. Must be in good physical condition and 14 years or older to participate. Minors (14-17) must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water, sunscreen and bug spray. No bare feet. Trips will run rain or shine. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the Park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Meet at parking lot A21, approximately 8 miles south of the park entrance. Please arrive at least 15-20 minutes prior to the start of the program. Additional parking is located in lot A20.
Surfing Safari For Adults
Surfing Safari for Adults
Learn to Surf at IBSP!
Naturalists will teach participants about waves and how to read them, with a focus on surfing fundamentals, ocean awareness, and water safety. Great for adult beginners!
**Important Details**
Over 18 only
Meet at the Pavilion at Swimming Area #2, approximately 3.5 miles south of the park entrance.
Bring a towel, sunscreen, bug spray, water, and snack. Wear a bathing suit and a rash guard/sun shirt.
Foam surfboards are provided, but you can bring your own board.
Event is weather dependent and is subject to change with little notice. Lightning and unsafe surf conditions may cause cancellations. There will be no REFUNDS unless the park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Sedge Island Kayak EcoTour
Explore IBSP’s stunning natural landscapes by kayak!
Join us in New Jersey’s first Marine Conservation Zone for a guided paddle through the Sedge Islands. Learn about the park’s history and the diverse species found throughout IBSP.
**Important Details**
All equipment is provided. No experience necessary. Must be in good physical condition and 14 years or older to participate. Minors (14-17) must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water, sunscreen and bug spray. No bare feet.
Trips will run rain or shine. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the Park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Meet at parking lot A21, approximately 8 miles south of the park entrance. Please arrive at least 15-20 minutes prior to the start of the program. Additional parking is located in lot A20.
Perseid’s Meteor Shower Viewing Party
Join park naturalists and volunteers from the Astronomical society of Toms River (ASTRA) and learn all about light pollution and our Urban Dark Sky Initiative at IBSP! View the meteor shower while relaxing on the beach, or view the amazing night sky through one of ASTRA’s high powered telescopes!
Things to Know
Where to meet:
Meet in the parking lot at A21, 8 miles south of the entrance.
What to bring:
Bring snacks, water, bug spray. No flashlights or glow sticks.
Tickets are free but pre-registration is required. Please remember to bring your ticket and signed liability form.
Events will run rain or shine. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the Park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Park admission fees apply.
Surfing Safari
Learn to Surf at IBSP!
Naturalists will teach you about waves and how to read them, with a focus on surfing fundamentals, ocean awareness, and water safety. Great for beginners!
**Important Details**
Ages 8 to 17 only
Meet at the Pavilion at Swimming Area #2, approximately 3.5 miles south of the park entrance.
Bring a towel, sunscreen, bug spray, water, and snack. Wear a bathing suit and a rash guard/sun shirt.
Foam surfboards are provided, but you can bring your own board.
Event is weather dependent and is subject to change with little notice. Lightning and unsafe surf conditions may cause cancellations. There will be no REFUNDS unless the park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Raising Happy Shellfish
Join park naturalists and volunteers from ReClam the Bay at the upweller at the Island Beach Marina!
“There are certain things that all living things require; food, water, sunlight, oxygen. And they need a way to protect themselves from being eaten by predators! To get them started we grow them in a large tank called an upweller. This is really a shellfish nursery.” https://reclamthebay.org/raising-happy-shellfish/
**THIS EVENT IS FREE! PLEASE JUST STOP BY!**
Sedge Island Kayak EcoTour
Explore IBSP’s stunning natural landscapes by kayak!
Join us in New Jersey’s first Marine Conservation Zone for a guided paddle through the Sedge Islands. Learn about the park’s history and the diverse species found throughout IBSP.
**Important Details**
All equipment is provided. No experience necessary. Must be in good physical condition and 14 years or older to participate. Minors (14-17) must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water, sunscreen and bug spray. No bare feet.
Trips will run rain or shine. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the Park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Meet at parking lot A21, approximately 8 miles south of the park entrance. Please arrive at least 15-20 minutes prior to the start of the program. Additional parking is located in lot A20.
Sunset Paddle
A “Serenity at Sunset” Paddle in the Marine Conservation Zone
Join us for a peaceful sunset paddle with our Naturalists, who will guide you on an interpretative paddle through the Sedge Island Marine Conservation Zone. Enjoy the calm clear waters and listen to the sounds of the natural world as you make your way through the Spizzle Creek. End your journey watching the sunset over the Barnegat Bay. You won’t believe you’re in New Jersey!
**Important Details**
All equipment is provided. No experience necessary. Must be in good physical condition and 14 years or older to participate. Minors (14-17) must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water, sunscreen and bug spray. No bare feet. Trips will run rain or shine. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the Park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Meet at parking lot A21, approximately 8 miles south of the park entrance. Please arrive at least 15-20 minutes prior to the start of the program. Additional parking is located in lot A20.
IBSP After Dark
Join our park Naturalists for a guided night hike through the maritime forest and watch the world around you transform as the sun goes down.
After the hike, gather around a beach bonfire and enjoy some smores as you hear about the park’s rich history while viewing the iconic Judge’s Shack. Hear the tales of shipwrecks off our coast, and maybe a ghost story or two!
**Important Details**
Bring a blanket or chair, water, and bug spray.
Children 5 and under are free. There is a moderate hike over the dunes to the beach.
The event will run light rain or shine. There will be no REFUNDS unless the park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Beginner Surf Fishing Clinic
Join IBSP Naturalists and our famous volunteer “fishing crew” and become a part of the classic sport of surf fishing! Learn how to tie knots, read the beach, which species to catch, and how you can improve your skills!
**IMPORTANT DETAILS**
Meet at the Nature Center, approximately 7 miles south of the park entrance.
All equipment and bait will be provided.
Bring water, sunscreen, bug spray and a snack.
Children must be 10 years or older. Participants 10-18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Participants 16 and older are encouraged to register as a NJ Saltwater Angler. Registration is free and can be completed online https://dep.nj.gov/njfw/fishing/marine/saltwater-registry/
Sunset Paddle
A “Serenity at Sunset” Paddle in the Marine Conservation Zone
Join us for a peaceful sunset paddle with our Naturalists, who will guide you on an interpretative paddle through the Sedge Island Marine Conservation Zone. Enjoy the calm clear waters and listen to the sounds of the natural world as you make your way through the Spizzle Creek. End your journey watching the sunset over the Barnegat Bay. You won’t believe you’re in New Jersey!
**Important Details**
All equipment is provided. No experience necessary. Must be in good physical condition and 14 years or older to participate. Minors (14-17) must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water, sunscreen and bug spray. No bare feet. Trips will run rain or shine. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the Park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Meet at parking lot A21, approximately 8 miles south of the park entrance. Please arrive at least 15-20 minutes prior to the start of the program. Additional parking is located in lot A20.
Sedge Island Kayak EcoTour
Explore IBSP’s stunning natural landscapes by kayak!
Join us in New Jersey’s first Marine Conservation Zone for a guided paddle through the Sedge Islands. Learn about the park’s history and the diverse species found throughout IBSP.
**Important Details**
All equipment is provided. No experience necessary. Must be in good physical condition and 14 years or older to participate. Minors (14-17) must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water, sunscreen and bug spray. No bare feet.
Trips will run rain or shine. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the Park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Meet at parking lot A21, approximately 8 miles south of the park entrance. Please arrive at least 15-20 minutes prior to the start of the program. Additional parking is located in lot A20.
IBSP Judge’s Shack History Hike
Join our historians for a hiking series that explores the rich cultural & ecological history of IBSP. Each hike will focus on a different topic, and will be located throughout the park.
Built about 1911 and purchased in 1942 by Judge Richard Hartshorne, the Judge’s Shack is the last known surviving structure of its type in its original configuration on the NJ coast. Learn the history and stories of this fascinating cultural and historical landmark on this enchanting hike.
**IMPORTANT DETAILS**
Meet in parking lot A13, approximately 6 miles south of the park entrance.
Please bring sunscreen, bug spray, water and a snack.
Hikes will run rain or shine. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the Park cancels the event. No exceptions.
Raising Happy Shellfish
Join park naturalists and volunteers from ReClam the Bay at the upweller at the Island Beach Marina!
“There are certain things that all living things require; food, water, sunlight, oxygen. And they need a way to protect themselves from being eaten by predators! To get them started we grow them in a large tank called an upweller. This is really a shellfish nursery.” https://reclamthebay.org/raising-happy-shellfish/
**THIS EVENT IS FREE! PLEASE JUST STOP BY!**
Surf IBSP - Intermediate 8/4/25
Surf IBSP
Come catch a wave with us!
Surf IBSP - Intermediate is a 5-day surfing adventure designed for experienced surfers to sharpen their skills and receive higher level instruction. IBSP Naturalists and avid surfers will take you on a wild ride filled with games, lessons, stewardship and most of all, lots of time in the water surfing!
**IMPORTANT DETAILS**
THIS IS NOT FOR BEGINNERS. EXPERIENCE REQUIRED.
MUST BE STRONG SWIMMER AND CONFIDENT IN THE OCEAN.
DATE: Monday 8/4/25 - Friday 8/8/25
TIME: 9am - 12:30pm
AGE: 8-16
EQUIPMENT: Foam boards are provided, but you may bring your own board
WHERE: Swimming Area #2 pavilion
WHAT TO WEAR: Swimsuits and rash guard/sun-shirt. Wetsuits are encouraged but not provided
WHAT TO BRING: Towel, change of clothes, water, sunscreen, lunch/snacks
CANCELLATIONS POLICY: Surf IBSP is extremely weather dependent and any inclement weather and/or rough surf conditions may effect the program. No refunds are provided unless the park cancels. No exceptions.
What’s happening.
There is always something happening at Island Beach State Park. Use the calendar to view upcoming and past events. Click on a date/event to learn more.