Upper Jetties Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
SSE, S, SW; also short period W, WNW; combo of North and South Hemi swells
Wind
E, NE
Surf Height
chest-overhead
Tide
medium
Upper Jetties Surf Guide
This "hottest 100 yards" of Newport between 54th and 56th is traditionally known for defying surfing tradition and the crossed-up peaks that offer plenty of ramps. Thanks to the string of jetties that break up the sand flow, the shape of the waves -- particularly in front of these two streets -- tends to be favorable for high-speed surfing. There are three main peaks that peel inside the 54th Street jetty that take both S and N swells, making it consistently surfable throughout the year, but also consistently smaller than Huntington Beach, just a couple of miles north. On the north side of the jetty, 56th Street produces zippy, sometimes world-class lefts on a S swell. Like any high-performance hotbed, if you prove you can fly with the best of them, chances are you'll be given plenty of clearance.
Ability Level
Intermediate - Advanced
Intermediate to advanced
Local Vibe
Doable
Precious.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
More often than not, you won't be happy with the crowds.
Spot Rating
Fun
Punchy little beachbreak most days, can get exceptional on a good combo or tropical swell.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
Pretty short paddle most days, but can be a lot of work on a strong south or northwest swell with current.
Water Quality
Fair
Not great after a rain.
Hazards
Falling into the jetty, steep sand-sucking drop-ins, no parking.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Fish, Bodyboard, Bodysurfing
Access
Street parking with a few meters sprinkled in for good measure. Double check that street sweeping day, if there are available spots galore it's probably too good to be true.
Bottom
Sand
Best Season
March-October, but can be good on some W or NW swells November-February.
Do you have local knowledge about Upper Jetties?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]