Barnegat, located in Ocean County, New Jersey, is a charming township situated along the state’s beautiful coastline. Positioned on the Barnegat Bay and bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Barnegat offers residents and visitors alike access to stunning beaches, maritime activities, and a rich cultural heritage. Affiliated with the United States, Barnegat is part of the state of New Jersey and lies within the New York metropolitan area. With a population of approximately 22,000 residents, Barnegat maintains a small-town atmosphere while being within easy reach of major urban centers. The township is known for its maritime history, beautiful natural landscapes, and recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Major landmarks in Barnegat include Barnegat Lighthouse, Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, and Barnegat Bay.
Geographical Overview
Barnegat is located on the eastern coast of New Jersey, in Ocean County. Situated along the Barnegat Bay and Atlantic Ocean, the township boasts a diverse geographical landscape, including sandy beaches, marshlands, and pine forests. Barnegat is known for its maritime heritage, with fishing, boating, and water sports being popular activities among residents and visitors. The township’s coastal location provides easy access to a variety of recreational opportunities, including swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, and sailing. The nearby Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge offers opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and wildlife observation in a pristine natural setting.
Population
Barnegat has a population of approximately 22,000 residents, making it a mid-sized township within Ocean County. The population is diverse, consisting of families, retirees, and young professionals attracted to the area’s coastal lifestyle and recreational amenities. Barnegat’s population has grown steadily in recent years, driven by its desirable location, affordable housing options, and quality of life. The township’s strong sense of community, family-friendly atmosphere, and access to outdoor activities contribute to its appeal as a place to live, work, and play.
Major Landmarks
Despite its relatively small size, Barnegat boasts several major landmarks and attractions that showcase its rich history and natural beauty:
- Barnegat Lighthouse: One of the most iconic landmarks in the area, Barnegat Lighthouse stands tall on the northern tip of Long Beach Island, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for breathtaking views or explore the surrounding park and interpretive center to learn about the area’s maritime history.
- Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge: This expansive wildlife refuge spans over 47,000 acres along the New Jersey coastline, providing habitat for a diverse array of plant and animal species. Visitors can explore the refuge’s trails, observation decks, and wildlife drives to spot migratory birds, waterfowl, and other wildlife in their natural habitats.
- Barnegat Bay: The Barnegat Bay is a scenic estuary that stretches along the eastern coast of New Jersey, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, crabbing, and water sports. The bay’s calm waters and protected coves make it an ideal destination for recreational boaters, kayakers, and paddleboarders, while its sandy beaches and marshlands provide habitat for shorebirds, marine life, and native plants.
Climate and Weather Overview
Barnegat experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and cold, wet winters. The township typically enjoys four distinct seasons, with mild spring and fall seasons transitioning between the extremes of summer and winter. Summers in Barnegat are often hot and muggy, with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F, while winters can be cold and snowy, with temperatures dropping below freezing. Overall, Barnegat’s climate provides a mix of outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the year, with each season offering its own unique activities and attractions.
Average Monthly Climate Data
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Average Precipitation (inches) | Average Sunny Days |
| January | 38.4 | 3.66 | 14 |
| February | 40.7 | 3.06 | 15 |
| March | 47.8 | 4.02 | 17 |
| April | 57.9 | 3.43 | 18 |
| May | 67.5 | 3.31 | 20 |
| June | 76.7 | 3.43 | 21 |
| July | 81.6 | 4.05 | 22 |
| August | 80.6 | 4.02 | 21 |
| September | 74.2 | 3.28 | 19 |
| October | 63.2 | 3.24 | 17 |
| November | 53.3 | 3.42 | 15 |
| December | 43.6 | 3.55 | 14 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Barnegat is cold and often snowy, with an average temperature of 38.4°F. The month typically sees significant precipitation, averaging 3.66 inches, with 14 sunny days on average. Outdoor activities during this month are limited due to the cold weather and snow cover, but residents and visitors can still enjoy winter sports such as ice skating, sledding, and snowshoeing. Indoor activities such as visiting museums, attending cultural events, and cozying up by the fireplace with a good book are popular during this time of year.
February
February brings continued cold temperatures to Barnegat, with an average temperature of 40.7°F. The month sees slightly lower precipitation than January, averaging 3.06 inches, with 15 sunny days on average. Outdoor activities may include cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and winter hikes, as well as ice fishing on nearby lakes and ponds. Indoor activities such as crafting, cooking, and attending cultural events provide opportunities for residents and visitors to stay active and engaged during the winter months.
March
March marks the transition to spring in Barnegat, with temperatures beginning to warm up and signs of new growth emerging. The average temperature is 47.8°F, with increased precipitation averaging 4.02 inches and 17 sunny days on average. Outdoor activities may include hiking, birdwatching, and gardening as the landscape comes to life with blooming flowers and budding trees. March also offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities as the weather begins to improve.
April
April in Barnegat brings milder temperatures and increasing precipitation, with an average temperature of 57.9°F and 3.43 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 18 sunny days on average, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking as the landscape awakens from its winter slumber. Residents and visitors can also enjoy exploring local parks and nature reserves, attending outdoor concerts and farmers’ markets, and participating in Earth Day events to celebrate the arrival of the new season.
May
May heralds the arrival of warmer temperatures and abundant sunshine in Barnegat, with an average temperature of 67.5°F and 3.31 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 20 sunny days on average, providing perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and fishing in the area’s scenic parks and waterways, or take leisurely strolls through the countryside. May also offers opportunities for gardening, birdwatching, and attending outdoor festivals and events to celebrate the season’s bounty.
June
June in Barnegat is warm and sunny, with temperatures averaging 76.7°F and 3.43 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 21 sunny days on average, providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, and kayaking on the nearby bay, or explore the township’s parks and trails for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. June also offers opportunities for outdoor concerts, farmers’ markets, and community festivals to kick off the summer season.
July
July is the peak of summer in Barnegat, with hot temperatures and plenty of sunshine, averaging 81.6°F and 4.05 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 22 sunny days on average, providing ample opportunities for outdoor fun. Residents and visitors can cool off with a dip in the bay, relax on the sandy beaches, or enjoy water sports such as boating, tubing, and waterskiing. July also offers opportunities for outdoor concerts, fireworks displays, and community festivals, as well as fishing tournaments and picnics in the park for residents of all ages to enjoy.
August
In August, summer continues in full swing in Barnegat, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, averaging 80.6°F and 4.02 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 21 sunny days on average, providing perfect conditions for outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding on the bay, or explore the township’s parks and trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting. August also offers opportunities for outdoor concerts, food festivals, and cultural events, as well as stargazing and camping under the summer sky.
September
September brings mild temperatures and decreasing precipitation to Barnegat, with an average temperature of 74.2°F and 3.28 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 19 sunny days on average, providing ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and leaf-peeping in the area’s scenic parks and nature reserves, or take scenic drives to admire the changing foliage. September also offers opportunities for apple picking, pumpkin patches, and fall festivals, as well as outdoor concerts, art fairs, and historical tours to celebrate the arrival of autumn.
October
October in Barnegat is characterized by cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, with an average temperature of 63.2°F and 3.24 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 17 sunny days on average, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and leaf-peeping in the area’s scenic parks and nature reserves, or take leisurely drives through the countryside. October also offers opportunities for apple picking, hayrides, and fall festivals, as well as pumpkin carving, haunted hayrides, and Halloween celebrations to embrace the spirit of the season.
November
November marks the transition to winter in Barnegat, with cooler temperatures and increasing precipitation, averaging 53.3°F and 3.42 inches respectively. The month sees 15 sunny days on average, providing opportunities for outdoor activities before the arrival of winter weather. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography in the area’s scenic parks and nature reserves, or take scenic drives to admire the changing foliage. November also offers opportunities for Thanksgiving celebrations, holiday markets, and craft fairs, as well as indoor activities such as cooking classes, art workshops, and holiday concerts to prepare for the festive season ahead.
December
December in Barnegat is cold and often snowy, with an average temperature of 43.6°F and 3.55 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 14 sunny days on average, providing opportunities for outdoor activities before the arrival of winter weather. Residents and visitors can enjoy ice skating, sledding, and snowshoeing in the area’s parks and open spaces, or take scenic drives to admire the festive holiday lights and decorations. December also offers opportunities for holiday shopping, visits with Santa Claus, and seasonal events such as tree lighting ceremonies, holiday concerts, and Christmas markets to spread joy and cheer throughout the community.