Jones Beach Northwell Amphitheater

[Monterey385]

My son wants to sail from NJ to Jones Beach for the Jimmy Buffet concert in August. We draw 4’8” ... I couldn’t tell from the chart whether there is enough water and or whether to can see the stage from the boat.

Has anyone else done this at this venue before? Is it possible? Any tips?

 

[dlochner]

This is probably better done in a power boat. The inlets, either Jones Inlet or Fire Island inlet are notorious for shifting shoals and currents. There are also bridges to contend with. I believe the southern most bridges on the Wantagh Parkway and Meadowbrook Parkway are opening bridges, but it is has been a few years since I have been there.

There are many tidal flat and narrow channels in the area. Zach's Bay is pretty shoal at low tide. I've attached a chart of the bay with the theater. The theater was originally used for Broadway Musicals and is designed for that purpose and designed to keep out freeloaders. Although there have no doubt been many changes over the years. Scenery was on barges that were towed into a channel between the audience and the stage.

In 1968 I spent a good part of the summer listening to South Pacific while working at the concession stand.

 

[jon hansen]

bloody Mary is the girl i love ...........

 

[dlochner]

bloody Mary is the girl i love ...........

ACCCCKKKKKKKK!!!!!!!

It took me about 10 years to recover to a month of nonstop South Pacific shows and rude crowds.

Some (un)enchanted evenings...... I met too many strangers....not in paradise.

 

[jon hansen]

 

[Justin_NSA]

Interesting idea. I'll bet a million powerboats will have the same idea
I once anchored out on our lake to watch fireworks with some friends. I spent so much time worrying about having to fend off a nearby boat that I didn't enjoy the evening.
Best of luck to your son.

 

[shemandr]

I believe the stage faces away from the bay. I've been to several JB concerts there. You could probably dink in with tickets and enjoy the show. Currents are strong in the waterways approaching Zach's Bay. And in Jones Inlet I have seen nun buoys dragged underwater by the current. The inlet can break under certain conditions. Fire Island Inlet is pretty far away at sailboat speeds. But is navigable. Still strong currents and it's best to have local knowledge. The bridge from Jones Inlet side is a drawbridge. There are pods which you can tie to awaiting an opening. Check with NYS about openings. There is a lot of powerboat traffic in those waterways making travel uncomfortable.
There is a small marina near Jones Inlet by the Coast Guard Station we called Short Beach. It was a state run facility as part of the park. And you used to be able to anchor there. It would make a nice staging point. Check with NYS Parks about specifics.