Tides on Shark River

We are often referencing the need for high tide to provide our kayak services. This is due to the lack of water depth when the tide is low. The gravitational pull of the moon and the rotational force of the Earth cause tides to fall across the planet. Shark River is coastal and is more like a tidal basin than an actual “river”. This special environment brings much uniqueness to Shark River ecology and the flora and fauna that we experience is some of the best you can find on the easy coast, right here at the Jersey Shore.

Though it varies each day in the moon cycle, on average we see a tidal change of about 4’-5’ of water as the tide rises and falls. Full moon and new moon tides that coincide when the moon is closest to earth will see a perigean spring tide, which can cause us to see 6’+ tidal change. Typically that level of tidal flood would cause the water inundation in our streets.

Tides will also cause currents in Shark River that can cause paddling to require more effort “against the tide”.

Every season we gather tidal charts and develop our season calendar based on the high tide. All services must be conducted within a specific window of of about 5-6 hours of time which will vary each day. If you have questions about the tidal changes on Shark River please ask us, we are happy to talk about it.

Shark River can become unsafe when the tide is outgoing. We have observed kayakers (not ours) who get stranded for HOURS and HOURS due to their lack of tidal knowledge.

Be prepared and check the tides before you paddle on ANY COASTAL BODY OF WATER!