9th Street (Long Beach Island)

9th Street (Long Beach Island) in Ship Bottom is an ocean-access beach-break area known for clean water and summer thermal wind. Kite riding is commonly centered on the predictable afternoon thermal sea breezes that develop from the south to southwest several times per week in late spring and early summer, with a typical wind band roughly in the low-to-mid 20s knots. For kitesurfing, the conditions are described as suitable for freeride and wave riding, but riders should be prepared for shorebreak and strong currents, including rip currents. Summer use also comes with management rules during the lifeguard season, including badge requirements and typical limitations on kitesurfing between lifeguard flags during duty hours. Surfing is closely associated with the “Seven Eleven” name and works as an exposed sandbar beach break, often producing consistent peaks over shifting sand. The preferred setup is generally tied to east/southeast swell direction with offshore west winds for cleaner surf; low tide is specifically mentioned as the better tide state. Overall timing is strongest in May through July for wind, while the surfing window can extend seasonally (with one guide citing July as the single best month). Water temperatures rise quickly into summer, so many riders shift toward lighter wetsuits once the season warms, while winter and early shoulder periods require full protection.