Barnegat Bay is a large estuary located in Ocean County, New Jersey. It is situated between the mainland of New Jersey and Long Beach Island, and is part of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. The bay is approximately 12 miles long and 5 miles wide, with an average depth of 6 feet.

The bay is home to a variety of wildlife, including ospreys, herons, egrets, terns, and many species of fish. The bay also serves as a nursery for many species of juvenile fish. The bay's shallow waters provide ideal habitat for shellfish such as oysters, clams, mussels, and crabs.

The bay has been used for centuries by Native Americans for fishing and transportation. In the 19th century it was used by commercial fishermen who harvested oysters from its waters. Today it is popular among recreational boaters who enjoy fishing, crabbing, clamming, sailing and kayaking in its calm waters.

Barnegat Bay is also home to several state parks that offer visitors access to its beaches and trails. These parks include Island Beach State Park, Barnegat Lighthouse State Park and Double Trouble State Park. Visitors can also explore the nearby Edwin B Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge which provides habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife species.

Barnegat Bay offers something for everyone - from nature lovers to recreational boaters - making it a great destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of New Jersey's coastal region.