Brigantine Inlet facts for kids

Brigantine Inlet is a natural waterway in New Jersey. It connects a smaller body of water called Little Bay to the big Atlantic Ocean. Think of it like a natural doorway between a calm bay and the open sea.

Where is Brigantine Inlet?

Brigantine Inlet is located in Atlantic County, New Jersey. It separates two land areas: Brigantine Island and Little Beach. The inlet also continues as "Brigantine Channel." This channel helps connect Little Bay with the Atlantic Ocean. It's an important part of the local coastline.

A Changing History

Brigantine Inlet has a long and interesting history. It was first shown on a map in 1749 by Lewis Evans. But it might have been there even earlier.

Over time, this inlet has changed a lot. Sometimes it was open, and sometimes it closed up completely! For example, it closed around the year 1800. Later, it reopened. This opening and closing is a natural process for many inlets along the coast.

In the early 1900s, experts studied how inlets like Brigantine Inlet change. They found that these waterways are always moving and shifting. Strong ocean currents and sand movement cause these changes. Sometimes, new inlets open, and old ones close. This natural process helps shape the coastline over many years.