Trip Report – August 28, 2025
An Awesome Day on the Ocean near Sandy Hook!
What an unforgettable afternoon aboard Jersey Girl! Today’s whale watching trip took us north from Belmar along one of the most scenic stretches of the Jersey Shore. As soon as we cleared the Shark River Inlet, the ocean opened up with calm seas, blue skies, and that salty breeze that makes you instantly feel like you’ve left your worries back at the dock.
Scenic Cruise Along the Shore
As we traveled north, our guests enjoyed views of some of New Jersey’s most beautiful seaside towns. We cruised past Bradley Beach and Asbury Park, both bustling with late summer beachgoers enjoying the sunshine. The shoreline was alive with color—umbrellas, surfers, and families savoring the last few days before Labor Day.
Further north, the landscape shifted as we passed Long Branch and Monmouth Beach, where gorgeous oceanfront homes lined the coast. These multimillion-dollar residences, with their sweeping lawns and terraces, are a reminder of the unique beauty and history of the Jersey Shore. Guests loved hearing about the rich traditions of these towns while snapping photos of the houses and the sparkling Atlantic backdrop.
Wildlife Sightings Near Sandy Hook
The highlight of the afternoon came as we approached Sandy Hook, one of New Jersey’s most iconic coastal landmarks. Just offshore, we spotted the telltale blow of a humpback whale. Excitement buzzed through the boat as cameras came out and everyone leaned forward to watch.
What happened next was nothing short of spectacular: the whale engaged in lunge feeding, bursting through schools of bait fish with its enormous mouth wide open. Seeing a humpback whale feeding right at the surface is always a thrill—it’s a dramatic reminder of the power and grace of these incredible animals.
As if that weren’t enough, a pod of bottlenose dolphins joined the scene, riding the waves and circling near the whale. Guests were treated to the unforgettable sight of dolphins and a whale sharing the same waters, all against the backdrop of Sandy Hook and the northern New Jersey shoreline.
A Perfect Afternoon at Sea
It’s days like today that make whale watching so magical. The combination of calm seas, stunning scenery, and incredible wildlife encounters reminded us why New Jersey has become one of the top whale watching destinations on the East Coast. The atmosphere aboard was filled with joy, laughter, and excitement—especially from first-time passengers who had never seen a whale so close before.
Peak Whale Watching Season Is Almost Here!
While August has given us some truly memorable trips, the peak whale watching season in New Jersey runs through October and November. During these months, humpback whales are especially active as they migrate and feed along our coast. It’s the absolute best time of year to join us, and trips often feature multiple whales, dolphins, and other marine life.
With Labor Day weekend just ahead, our trips are filling quickly. It’s the perfect time to plan one last summer adventure or to get an early start on fall whale watching. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the excitement for yourself.
Book Your Adventure Now
Jersey Shore Whale Watch is proud to be New Jersey’s only full-time whale watching company, operating seven days a week. Every trip is guaranteed—you’ll see a whale, or your next trip is free (just pay a $20 booking fee).
📍 Departing from Belmar Marina
🌐 Book online at whalewatchnj.com
📞 Call 732-592-6400
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#AWESOME day watching a lunge-feeding #humpback whale with a group of bottlenose #dolphins off Sandy Hook!!
#labordayweekend is going to be #HUGE!!! Don’t miss out!!!
Belmar Beach NJ
#whalewatching #whales #whaleday #laborday #njwhales
