- Bicycling in Brigantine is enjoyable for riders of all levels. The roads are wide and flat, with only slow-moving vehicle traffic on most streets. There is also a bike lane that runs along the main streets from 14th Street North to 40th Street. Beach cruisers, mountain bikes, road bikes and families with young kids can all ride together safely. The law requires riders under 17 years of age to wear a helmet while riding. I think it's a good idea for everyone!
If you don't have a bike you can buy or rent one at All About Bikes and Wheels at 1301 West Brigantine Ave. For shop hours you can call (609) 264-9111.
- Surfing, stand-up paddle and kayaking can be a year round adventure! Although most of us think of these as warm water sports, some people suit up in a full wet suit and go for it. If you are one of them, check out Primal Surf Shop for boards, kayaks and wet suits (really cute clothes too!)
In the summer, they run the Brigantine Surf School, offering lessons to kids and adults. They are located at 3106 Revere Blvd, (609) -264-1999. Visit online at http://psurf.com/.
- The Brigantine Community Center is a valuable resource for fitness and recreation. They organize group fitness classes, indoor tennis, a gymnasium and pool tables. For a schedule of activities visit http://www.bb-nj.com/community-education-recreation/ or stop by the center located at 265 42nd Street. (609) -264-7350.
- The Brigantine Golf Links is an 18 hole golf course. Depending on the weather, golfers start up again in the early spring. For more information visit them at /http://www.brigantinegolf.com/.
- Swimmers can head to the Brigantine Aquatic Center. Home of the Brigantine Greenheads Swim Team. The 25 meter pool is a great place to take water aerobics, swim lessons, or swim laps before the ocean and bay warm up! The center is located at 3118 Bayshore Ave, (609) 266-7946. Or visit http://www.teamunify.com/Membership.jsp?team=mabac.
- If you are looking to do some strength training, take a group fitness class, or work out on cardio equipment, check out the Brigantine Fitness Center (Especially in the early spring, when the weather is not cooperating!). Located in the Town Center Shops, above St. Georges Pub, 4288 Harbor Beach Blvd, (609) 266-0099.
- In the spring, you'll begin to see rowers from the Holy Spirit Girls Crew Team practicing on the back bay. The Brigantine Rowing Club offers programs for kids ages 12 and up, beginner adults and adaptive rowing for rowers with special needs. You can visit their website, http://brigantinerowingclub.org/blog1/wordpress/. I'll be sure to post an update when their summer program schedule is announced.
- Kids need to stay active too! There are two community playgrounds on the island. Shark Park, located on the 26th Street Side of the recreation complex, is the larger of the two. The other, Tot Lot, is a nice walk for many families who live in the golf course area. It is located at 1517 East Shore Drive (Just around the bend from the Golf Links).
On days that you would rather not be outside, visit the Playroom. It is an indoor play area for kids ages 5 and under. Located at the Community Center (265 42nd Street), it is open Monday - Friday 10:00 - 2:00. A $2 donation is requested per child. The Playroom is a wonderful place to meet other parents and kids!
If you're looking for a way to stay active, Brigantine's got it! So, don't wait until Memorial Day to get going! Have fun, Beach Bums!
