Princeton Jetty Surf Guide

Surf spot guide

Ideal Surf Conditions

Swell Direction

SW, W

Wind

E, NE, and protected from most NW winds

Surf Height

Waish high-overhead

Tide

Incoming, medium to high

Princeton Jetty Surf Guide

Only a mile or so from one of the most famous waves on the planet, this less-distinguished surf spot is at the very end of Princeton Harbor, well protected from the 20-foot surf booming at Maverick's. On most days there are small to head-high waves bouncing off the jetty at Princeton Harbor and at the beachbreaks extending off to the south. Princeton Harbor is usually bad, but sometimes good. On the right SW swell, a very attractive, little right wedge bubbles up next to the jetty and rockets down the beach. It's a rare sight, though.

Ability Level

Beginner - Intermediate

BegIntAdv

Beginner-Intermediate

Local Vibe

Doable

WelcomingIntimidating

Even here, on the right day, there's a pack of hot locals who can make things unpleasant. Plus, the takeoff zone is dinky, so be prepared for some elbow-bumping.

Crowd Factor

Heavy

MellowHeavy

Everyone and their dogs are here.

Spot Rating

Fun

PoorPerfect

Fun.

Shoulder Burn

Light

LightExhausting

Minimal.

Water Quality

Clean

CleanDirty

Near a harbor, so there's always a little muck.

Hazards

Like nursery school compared to what's going on out at Maverick's.

Bring Your

Shortboard

Access

Easy parking by the highway. Look both ways.

Bottom

Sand and some rocks.

Best Season

January-December

Do you have local knowledge about Princeton Jetty?

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