Beaverdam Creek Inlet

About

Local Notices to Mariners:

Local Notices to Mariners are available online from the U.S. Coast Guard.

Introduction:

Beaverdam Creek is located south of the Point Pleasant Canal and north of the Metedeconk River off the New Jersey Intracoastal Waterway (NJIW). The Manasquan inlet is close by, where Mile Zero (the start) of the NJIW is located. Beaverdam Creek is 26 miles south of Sandy Hook and 10 miles northeast of Toms River. Inside the well-protected creek are a variety of marinas with transient and repair facilities. Gas and diesel fuels are also available.

Navigating the Water:

Use NOAA Chart 12324.

Approaching from the south via the New Jersey Intracoatsal Waterway, Beaverdam Creek can be entered via two routes. As you arrive in West Mantoloking, the Waterway route splits in two directions around Herring Island. From red daybeacon “7,” you can take the west route around the island if your boat draws less than four feet.

When you arrive at red daybeacon “7,” hug it closely, and then head to the west around Herring Island to pick up flashing red “6,” where you will turn even farther west to intercept flashing red “2” off Wardells Neck. Next head north toward the opening at Beaverdam Creek, minding the privately placed (uncharted) markers that guide you in. If you need a little more depth than four feet, you will want to take the Intracoastal-proper route to the east around Herring Island. This route offers depths of at least five feet along its length. From red dayeacon “7,” follow flashing red “4,” red daybeacon “8,” red daybeacon “6,” flashing red “4,” and then flashing green “3.”

Once you have safely cleared flashing green “3,” turn to the west to pick up flashing red “8,” and then head into the creek, making sure you honor flashing red “6” along the way. There are five marinas up the creek and all but one require opening a bascule bridge (14-foot closed vertical clearance) to reach. The first marina below the bridge does not accept transients, but does have excellent repair facilities. If you need a place to tie up for the night, signal the bridge for an opening and head west to the other marinas.