When planning a weekend around Hudson County, the standard activities are always included. Brunch, happy hour specials, hitting the waterfront, and finally — grabbing a dinner reservation at a favorite local spot. However, there are so many outdoor + water activities that locals and visitors alike can add to a weekend to make it truly memorable. Whether you have friends in town or are planning that special birthday or bachelor/bachelorette party, a lot of those fun riverside activities you find in other popular cities, are also available right here in Hoboken + Jersey City. Keep reading to discover fun water + outdoor adventure activities in Hoboken and Jersey City.
Disclaimer: Please follow all COVID-19 precautions and regulations when partaking in any activities. This article is for informational purposes only — some of these activities may not be available at the time you read this due to government regulations, so we recommend calling each place ahead of time to confirm operation.
Free Kayaking at the Hoboken Cove Community Boathouse
Located on the Hudson River waterfront near the intersection of Frank Sinatra Drive and Maxwell Place, the Hoboken Cove Community Boathouse is a 100% volunteer-based, 501{c}{3} nonprofit organization whose goal is to provide free water sports programs and access to local waterways for the local community. It is also free to participate in water-based activities. However, the hours of operation vary somewhat as the staff operates on a 100% volunteer schedule {and they’re a non-profit!}. Check them out on Instagram @hobocobo and stay tuned to our events guide which usually lists the weekends they offer free activities.
Paddle Board with Resilience Paddle Sports
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Resilience offers paddleboarding, kayaks, youth programs, and even paddleboard yoga. Located next to Pier 13, their goal for the community is an outdoor adventure. Their activities are offered all day and are available via an easy online booking tool. Paddleboarding starts at $40 for hour tours or sessions and increase to $120 for longer experiences. Kayaking varies from $30 through $120 and yoga is set at $40 for an hour and a half class. Email info@resilienceadventures.org for more info.
See More: Free Things to Do in Hoboken + Jersey City This Summer {and Year-Round}
Jet Ski with New York Harbor Jet Ski
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Jet skiing, everyone’s favorite water activity. Also located next to Pier 13, New York Harbor Jet Ski may be the most exciting way to see the skyline. The tours are offered from one hour to three hours long, starting at the price of $149. On the tour, the group will ride up and down the Hudson River, around Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, with a possible full loop of Manhattan. Book with them online and secure a slot to kick off the weekend. Contact them at NewYorkHarborJetski@gmail.com
Helicopter Tours with FlyNYON
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Helicopter tours of NYC are something that have a place on most people’s bucket list. For the avid thrill seeker, even this can get the blood pumping. FlyNyon operates in NYC but even more closely to Hudson County with flights out of Kearny, NJ. Flights are available with the doors closed…or opened {if you can handle it}. The flight takes guests 1,500 feet up in the air, giving them panoramic views of New York’s best landmarks and incredible picture opportunities hovering over Manhattan’s skyscrapers. With a price starting around $140, FlyNyon is offering discounts for many of their packages. Check out their website to book ar flight at https://www.flynyon.com/.
“Cycle” with NYC Cycleboats
Back in May, we introduced the opening of NYC Cycleboats in Jersey City. To recap, NYC Cycleboats is a unique experience that involves 16 passengers peddling their way around NYC’s skyline. Don’t worry, if people get tired after peddling, riders do have the option to take a break and in case of an emergency, a gas motor is available to get you home with minimal effort. The best part is that the activity is BYOB. Wine and beer are allowed, however, no liquor is permitted. This may be a great idea for a special occasion, while the weather is warm. For more information and booking opportunities, check out NYCCycleboats.com, email info@nyccycleboats.com, or call 718-635-0430.
Paddleboard Kayak with Urban Paddle
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This Jersey City paddleboard and kayak option is located in the Liberty Harbor Marina and open seven days a week. Urban Paddle focuses on tours, whether the preference is to view the skyline, the sunset, or Lady Liberty. Starting at $50 for one-half hour, everyone who enjoys the water can find their niche. Follow them on Instagram @urbanpaddlejc.
Read More: 13 Outdoor and Rooftop Bars {in Hoboken + Jersey City}
Take a Tour with Hudson Cat
Currently, Hudson Cat offers two and a half hour Statue of Liberty private charter cruises at 12:00PM and 3:00PM daily, and a sunset cruise option at 6:00PM. However, your party size will have to be six or less as this is the max the charter allows. The charter sets sail out of the Liberty Harbor Marina or the North Cove Marina in downtown Manhattan. One more fun thing to note is that it is also BYOB, so plan accordingly. At $100 per passenger for a group of six, schedule a session and enjoy the skyline with some friends. Contact CaptainJazz@HudsonCat.com for more info or to book.
Take a Jet Ski Tour with Sea the City
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Sea the City offers Jet Ski Tours of Manhattan, Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty and departs out of Jersey City. Gain a new perspective of those favorite NYC attractions starting at $149 for a one hour tour. This option that is great for a group won’t disappoint as jet skiers fly down the Hudson with one of the wave runners. Follow them on Instagram @seathecity.
Take a tour of the Statue of Liberty with Statue Cruises
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Statue Cruises is a ferry tour that takes you to the Statue of Liberty monument. The “Reserve Ticket” will get you to the grounds of the Statue of Liberty only, as Ellis Island will remain closed during Phase 4 of the NY State reopening plan. With this ticket, you get priority entry into the Screening Facility Queue which saves you wait time at the departure point, and there are audio tours available in 12 languages. The ferries depart from Liberty State Park approximately every 20 – 35 minutes depending upon the departure point, and there is ample parking for cars and buses at Liberty State Park.
Take a tour with Sappho Sailing
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Currently Sappho Sailing offers a three hour sailing tour down the Hudson River and through the New York Harbor. This tour is currently priced at $700. The Sappho is a sailing yacht, specifically a Cherubini 44, that can reach up to 10 knots under sail. There is open air seating on deck either in the cockpit or on the cabin top. Enjoy style and comfort on this sailing yacht.
Have you tried one of these awesome activities yet? Let us know in the comments!
