The Jersey Shore is a beloved destination for both beach lovers and surfers, with some of the best surf spots along the East Coast. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s a wave for everyone. Here’s a look at some of the top surf spots at the Jersey Shore that you won’t want to miss.
Manasquan Inlet is one of the most renowned surf breaks on the East Coast, consistently delivering waves whenever there’s a swell in the Atlantic. The large man-made jetty channels the ocean swell into a powerful right wedge that can range from 2 to 20 feet. This spot attracts a diverse crowd of surfers, as the reliable rip current makes it easy for all skill levels to reach the peak. However, don’t be fooled by the seemingly easy paddle out; it can be dangerous for beginners, especially with the summer crowds competing for waves. Early mornings can offer more peaceful sessions amidst the hustle. Manasquan Inlet boasts some of the best waves along the New Jersey coast, with consistent breaks year-round. The ideal conditions occur with offshore winds from the west and a swell direction from the south-southeast, producing both lefts and rights, particularly around mid-tide as it rises. The best time for clean waves and light offshore winds is typically in the summer, especially in July. And while you’re there, keep an eye out for Bruce Springsteen, who’s often spotted in the area!
Belmar is a prime destination for surfers, offering consistent breaks on all swells and tides, making it a year-round surfing hotspot. This stretch of beach is known for generating the big, hollow barrels that expert surfers dream about. In the summer, it attracts vacationers, making it one of the most popular spots on the Jersey Shore. However, during the off-season, the crowds thin out, allowing top surfers from the region to enjoy the consistently barreling waves. As an exposed beach and jetty break, Belmar typically has surf year-round, with offshore winds blowing from the west. It can handle both windswell and groundswell, with the ideal swell direction coming from the east-northeast. The beach offers both left and right-hand waves, and the best conditions for clean, rideable surf with light offshore winds are usually found in autumn, particularly in September. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Belmar promises great waves and a vibrant surf culture.
Bay Head features a lengthy stretch of beach, dotted with short jetties that create exciting barreling waves year-round. This spot works well with nearly any swell, offering waves that can range from waist-high to double overhead. Be prepared for a crowd of local surfers, so choose your spot wisely. You’ll often find fun, waist-high waves, and on great days, you might score even bigger ones. The area showcases impressive surfing talent, with both guys and girls exhibiting their skills—it’s thrilling to watch them ride the waves! As an exposed beach and jetty break, Bay Head has fairly consistent surf and can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Offshore winds typically come from the west, and the beach handles both windswell and groundswell, with the optimum swell angle from the southeast. The breaks favor rights and are best surfed around mid-tide as it rises. The ideal time for consistent clean waves with light offshore winds is during the summer, particularly in July, making Bay Head a must-visit for surfers.
Nuns Beach is a unique sandbar in New Jersey that shines during the summer months. It primarily picks up small south swells, producing waves on most summer days, and works well with both groundswell and windswell, ensuring a consistently breaking wave. This exposed sandbar break offers fairly reliable surf, but be cautious of strong rip currents and rocks in the area. Summer provides the best conditions for surfing, with ideal offshore winds coming from the northwest and the preferred swell direction from the southeast. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Nuns Beach is a fantastic spot to enjoy some summer surfing!
Seaside Park, located just south of Seaside Heights, is a magnet for south swells, making it a standout spot among Jersey breaks. While many waves in the area can handle all types of swells, Seaside Park amplifies south swells more effectively. The waves here tend to be less intense, featuring fewer barrels but plenty of rippable rights, making it an ideal spot for beginners and visitors who may find other crowds intimidating. The best time to surf is at mid-tide on a south swell of any size. This exposed beach break offers consistent surf year-round, with lefts and rights available at all stages of the tide. For optimal conditions, look for northwest winds and southeast swell angles. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer looking to showcase your skills or a beginner eager to catch some fun waves, Seaside Park delivers a great experience with plenty of enjoyable rides.
A must-visit surf spot in New Jersey is the L Jetty in Avon, known for its fun waves that are best caught on the right day and time. This break only works on south swells, making it ideal for summer surfing. During low tide, the L-shaped jetty creates a spacious area where kids often play and chase fish. Since conditions are heavily influenced by the tide, be sure to check the winds and plan your visit for low to mid-tide when the surf is optimal. The L Jetty is an exposed beach and jetty break with reasonably consistent surf available year-round. The best winds come from the west, and waves can originate from both local windswell and distant groundswells, with the optimum swell angle from the east-southeast. The beach predominantly offers right-hand waves and is best surfed around low tide as it rises. For consistent clean waves with light offshore winds, summer—especially July—is the ideal time to enjoy the L Jetty.
At the last beach in Atlantic City, you’ll find a jetty setup that produces reliable waves across all swells. This quirky spot has its share of unique obstacles, from fishermen to party-goers finishing their nights just as you begin your sunrise session. However, the consistent waves make it worth navigating these distractions, especially since dependable breaks can be hard to find on the East Coast. When you’re in AC, why not make the most of it? Strap your board to the car and head to this hidden gem—you’ll enjoy fun rides during the day and can hit the town for a night out after your surf session! Known as Crystals, this fairly exposed beach and jetty break offers reliable surf year-round, with ideal winds coming from the west and some shelter from the south. It can handle both windswell and groundswell, with the best swell direction from the northeast. The beach predominantly breaks right and offers good surf at all stages of the tide. For the best conditions with consistent clean waves and light offshore winds, winter—especially March—is the ideal time to surf Crystals.
For those seeking a quieter experience, Wildwood Crest is a hidden gem. The waves tend to be smaller, making it a great spot for beginners and families. Wildwood/Five Mile Island in New Jersey features an exposed beach break known for its consistent surf, making it a reliable spot year-round. The ideal wind direction is from the northwest, and waves can come from both local windswells and distant groundswells, with the best swell angle coming from the southeast. This beach offers both left and right breaks, providing good surf at all stages of the tide. While you can find rideable waves throughout the year, the best times for clean conditions with light offshore winds are typically during the summer and often in November. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Wildwood Crest is a fantastic destination for surfers looking to catch some quality waves.
Broadway Beach, situated in the popular vacation town of Cape May, is a beach break that picks up most swells. While it can deliver good surf in the summer, the beach is often closed to surfing due to the influx of beachgoers and swimmers, making it best to wait for the colder months when the crowds thin out. During those epic days, you’ll find plenty of skilled surfers joining you in the water. This exposed beach and jetty break offers consistent surf year-round, with the best conditions occurring in autumn, particularly in September. Broadway works best with offshore winds from the north and can handle both windswell and groundswell, with the optimum swell angle coming from the northeast. Expect mainly left-hand waves, with the best surfing conditions around mid-tide.
While you’re planning your surf adventures at the Jersey Shore, don’t forget to check the latest fly report at Flies On The Beach. This resource helps you avoid the pesky flies that can sometimes make a day at the beach less enjoyable. Knowing when and where the flies are active can save you from unwanted distractions, allowing you to focus on catching those perfect waves.
Whether you’re looking for the thrill of riding the waves or simply want to enjoy the sun and surf with family and friends, the Jersey Shore has something for everyone. With its diverse surf spots, you can create unforgettable memories while exploring the beautiful coastline. So grab your board, head out to one of these amazing locations, and make the most of your time on the water. Just remember to check the latest fly report to keep your beach experience as enjoyable as possible.
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