Long Beach Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
S, SW, WSW, W
Wind
NE,N,NW
Surf Height
Waist high - Overhead and a half
Tide
Mid to High Tide for north side, Low-Mid tide for south side.
Long Beach Surf Guide
Although technically “Long Beach” encompasses the entire stretch of between Wickaninnish Beach to the south, and Schooner Cove to the north (about 10 miles). In surfing terms, however, it generally refers to the stretch between Lovekin Rock and Incinerator Rocks, closer to half a mile in total. The Lovekin zone generally pulls in a lot more swell as it curves outwards and faces more west, with consistent banks on both sides. The north side offers an a-frame peak, with slopey lefts running up the beach, and a steeper, walled right hander that breaks towards the rocks and into a rip, making for an easy return to the takeoff spot.
Ability Level
All Abilities
For the most part, the whole of the beach is soft enough for surfers of all skill levels to survive and thrive, but the peaks beside the rock are filled with a more competent crowd, so ideally newer surfers should steer clear of that area.
Local Vibe
Doable
Usually mellow, but as always, when the wedges close to the rock are on, there will be a pack of locals controlling the peak, especially on the south side.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Slammed in the summertime, with beachgoers and surfers of all kinds. In the winter through, it can be sneakily empty, and since it normally doesn't have good sandbars late in the year, it provides opportunity for a solo sesh if you're diligent and willing to make the drive.
Spot Rating
Fun
It has many moods, and you will see a little bit of everything on any given day. For the most part through, its a softer wave with a crumbly coping to lean into, but the south side gets shallow and dredgey when everything aligns.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
It can be a pretty lengthy slog to get back to the lineup, and the along shore currents are often brutal. Cheat on your initial paddle out by jumping in by the rock and get pulled by the rip. And on the south side, run-arounds back to the rock are a great option after long rides.
Water Quality
Clean
Very clean.
Hazards
Strong currents near Lovekin rock, hordes of beginners flailing about in the summer months, and big, angry, aggressive sea lions down on the south side.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Fish, Funboard, Longboard
Access
Multiple large parking lots right off the highway. Day use and seasonal National Park passes are available at kiosks.
Bottom
Sand bottom, no rocks.
Best Season
All Year
Do you have local knowledge about Long Beach?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]