Surfing at the Jersey Shore
From the powerful jetty breaks of Manasquan to the mellow beach breaks of Wildwood, New Jersey offers diverse surfing for every skill level.
Best Surf Spots
Manasquan Inlet
ExpertManasquan - Jetty break
The premier surf spot in New Jersey. The north jetty creates a powerful, fast wave that peels along the rocks. Consistently the best waves on the coast, attracting serious surfers from NYC to Philadelphia. Not for beginners due to strong currents, rocks, and powerful waves.
NE to E swells, 4-8 ft, low to mid tide
Strong currents, Rocky jetty, Localism
Long Beach Island (Ship Bottom)
IntermediateShip Bottom - Beach break
LBI has a strong surfing culture with good beach breaks throughout the island. Ship Bottom and Surf City are popular spots. Multiple sandbars create varied peaks. Less crowded than Monmouth County spots.
E to SE swells, 3-6 ft, all tides
Shifting sandbars, Summer crowds
Ocean City
Beginner to IntermediateOcean City - Beach break
Multiple beach breaks along the 8-mile island. The south end near the jetty can produce quality waves. Mellow conditions make it good for learning. Family-friendly town with surf shops and lessons available.
E to SE swells, 2-5 ft, mid tide
Summer swimming restrictions, Crowded in summer
Belmar
IntermediateBelmar - Beach break
Strong surf community with consistent beach breaks. Multiple peaks along the mile-long beach. The jetty at Shark River Inlet occasionally produces quality waves. Home to ESA contests and a dedicated local crew.
NE to E swells, 3-6 ft, low to mid tide
Crowds, Strict surfing zones in summer
Seaside Heights
BeginnerSeaside Heights - Beach break
Accessible beach breaks near the famous boardwalk. Mellow waves good for beginners and longboarders. Affordable rentals and lessons available. Can get crowded in summer but plenty of peaks to spread out.
E swells, 2-4 ft, all tides
Summer crowds, Parking challenges
Sandy Hook
Intermediate to ExpertSandy Hook - Beach break
The north end of Sandy Hook can produce excellent waves, especially during N-NE swells that wrap around the point. Part of Gateway National Recreation Area. Less crowded than other Monmouth spots but harder to access.
N to NE swells, 4-8 ft, mid to high tide
Long walk to surf, Strong currents, Limited parking
Asbury Park
IntermediateAsbury Park - Beach break
The Convention Hall area is the main surf zone, producing quality beach break peaks. Vibrant surf and music culture. Multiple surf shops, lessons, and rentals on the boardwalk. Gets crowded but has a welcoming vibe.
NE to E swells, 3-5 ft, low to mid tide
Summer crowds, Strict surf zones
Wildwood
BeginnerWildwood - Beach break
Wide, gently sloping beaches create mellow waves perfect for learning. The free beaches mean no badge hassles. Less consistent than northern spots but good for beginners when swells arrive.
E to SE swells, 2-4 ft, incoming tide
Inconsistent waves, Wide beach walk
Surf Seasons
Fall (Sep-Nov)
BestWaves: Hurricane swells bring the biggest and best waves of the year
Water: 55-68°F - 3/2mm to 4/3mm wetsuit
Crowds: Moderate - tourists gone, dedicated surfers remain
Prime time for NJ surfing. Hurricane season produces epic swells. Watch storm forecasts.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Good (Cold)Waves: Consistent nor'easters produce powerful, clean waves
Water: 38-48°F - 5/4mm+ wetsuit, boots, gloves, hood required
Crowds: Low - only dedicated cold water surfers
Best waves with no crowds, but serious cold water gear needed. Not for beginners.
Spring (Mar-May)
GoodWaves: Consistent swells as weather patterns shift
Water: 45-60°F - 4/3mm to 3/2mm wetsuit
Crowds: Low to moderate - before summer rush
Underrated season. Good waves and warming water. Great time to progress skills.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
FairWaves: Generally flat with occasional tropical swells
Water: 65-75°F - Boardshorts or spring suit
Crowds: High - tourists, strict beach hours
Warmest water but least consistent waves. Best for beginners in small surf. Early AM or evening sessions.
Surfing Rules & Etiquette
Respect Designated Surf Zones
During summer (typically Memorial Day to Labor Day), surfing is restricted to designated areas away from swimming beaches when lifeguards are on duty (usually 10 AM - 5 PM). Check local signs for specific zones.
Right of Way
The surfer closest to the peak (where the wave is breaking) has right of way. Don't drop in on someone already riding a wave. When paddling out, go around the break, not through it.
Know the Lineup Etiquette
Wait your turn in the lineup. Don't paddle around others to get inside position (snaking). Communicate with other surfers. Share waves when possible.
Respect Locals
Be respectful at new spots, especially known local breaks like Manasquan Inlet. Don't show up with a crowd. Give waves to regulars while you learn the spot.
Hold Onto Your Board
Never throw your board when a wave approaches. A loose board is dangerous to other surfers. Learn to duck dive or turtle roll. Use a proper leash.
Know Your Limits
Don't paddle out in conditions beyond your ability. If the waves look scary from the beach, they're worse in the water. Start small and progress gradually.
Board Rentals & Lessons
Board rentals typically run $20-35 per day. Lessons range from $60-150 depending on group size and duration.
Inlet Surf Shop
Manasquan
7th Wave Surf Shop
Long Branch
Heritage Surf & Sport
Long Branch
ESA Surf School
Belmar
Asbury Park Boardwalk
Asbury Park
Surfers Supplies
Seaside Heights
South End Surf Shop
Ocean City
Surf Forecast Resources
Beginner Tips
Start with Lessons
A good instructor will teach you ocean safety, proper technique, and get you standing faster than learning on your own. Worth every penny.
Use the Right Board
Start on a large soft-top board (8'+). Ego aside, bigger boards = more waves caught = faster progression. You'll get to the shortboard eventually.
Learn to Read Conditions
Understand how wind, tide, and swell direction affect waves. Offshore wind (blowing from land to sea) creates cleaner waves. Onshore wind creates choppy conditions.
Practice Pop-Ups on Land
The pop-up motion should be muscle memory before you hit the water. Practice on the beach until it's automatic. Speed matters when the wave comes.
Know the Ocean
Learn to identify rip currents, understand how waves break, and never surf alone. The ocean demands respect. When in doubt, don't go out.
Be Patient
Surfing is hard. Everyone struggles at first. The learning curve is steep but the reward is worth it. Stick with it through the frustrating days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best surf spot in New Jersey?
When is the best time to surf at the Jersey Shore?
Do I need a wetsuit to surf in New Jersey?
Are there surfing restrictions at New Jersey beaches?
Where can I take surfing lessons at the Jersey Shore?
What size surfboard should a beginner use?
Can you surf in New Jersey in winter?
Where can I check surf conditions for New Jersey?
Ready to Ride?
Start with lessons to build a solid foundation, then explore the coast.