The Barnegat Bay Estuary is made up of two principal bodies of water: Barnegat Bay in the north and Little Egg Harbor in the south. The Estuary extends along about 42 miles of New Jersey's coast and drains about 660 square miles of the state.

About 500,000 people live in the Barnegat Bay Watershed all year round, but the population doubles during the summer season, from late May to September. The year-round population of the watershed increased by more than 20% during the 1990s, and it continues to grow at a rapid pace. The Barnegat Bay Estuary is almost entirely in Ocean County, which is one of the fastest growing counties in New Jersey.

Fishing is a great way to have fun and learn about the fish in the estuary. What could be more peaceful than sitting on the end of a dock, watching the sunset and waiting for a bite? Catch and Release for smaller fish allows the fish population to recover.

Crabbing is easy and entertaining, and you can catch your dinner at the same time. All you need to catch your dinner is a crab line or trap from your nearest bait shop, and some bait such as chicken pieces or fish. Before you keep what you catch, check that the shell of your crab is 4.5 inches from tip to tip.

Summertime swimming isn't just restricted to the ocean. Because it is calm and shallow, the bay is a great place to swim, especially for younger children. Many communities on LBI have "bay beaches" where children can swim in a protected area off a small beach.

Sailing and kayaking are fun ways to go around the bay without the damage a motorboat causes. Many places on the island rent kayaks. Ocean kayaking is also fun, but it is definitely not for the faint of heart.