Barnegat Bay is a shallow bay on the New Jersey coast, sheltered by barrier islands to the east. To the west are rivers, marshes and the forests of Pine Barrens. With several wildlife refuges and state parks on the nearby islands and mainland, the area is home to a wide variety of birds and other wildlife. Water depths average six feet or less, so deep-draft sailboats are prohibited from these waters. During the summer season, the bay is crowded with powerboats on weekends but some peaceful sailing can still be had on weekdays. For more information about sailing on Barnegat Bay, see the Barnegat Bay Yacht Racing Association website.