Surfing at the Jersey Shore
From beach breaks to jetty points, find the best waves along the Jersey Shore.
Surf Season Guide
Summer
⭐⭐
Generally flat with occasional south swells. Crowded beaches limit surf zones.
Fall
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Best season. Hurricane swells bring consistent waves. Water still warm. Fewer crowds.
Winter
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cold water (need 5mm wetsuit) but powerful noreaster swells. Uncrowded.
Spring
⭐⭐⭐
Inconsistent. Mix of winter swells and flat spells. Water slowly warming.
Best Surf Spots
Long Branch
All levels7 Presidents Park - consistent breaks, surf shops nearby
Beach break
E-NE swells, fall hurricanes
Belmar
All levelsOne of NJs most popular surf towns
Beach break
E swell, any tide
Manasquan
Intermediate to AdvancedThe Inlet - famous right-hand point break
Beach & jetty break
NE swell, incoming tide
Ocean Grove
Beginner to IntermediateGood waves with Victorian charm
Beach break
E-SE swell
Asbury Park
All levelsUrban surf scene with beach bars
Beach break
E-NE swell
Seaside Heights
Beginner to IntermediateAccessible waves near the boardwalk
Beach break
E swell, mid tide
Wildwood
BeginnerGentle waves on wide beach (FREE)
Beach break
S-SE swell needed due to geography
🏆 Famous Break: Manasquan Inlet
The Inlet at Manasquan is New Jerseys most famous surf spot. When northeast swells wrap around the jetty, it creates a right-hand point break that can produce head-high+ waves - rare for the typically mushy East Coast. Its heavily localized, so show respect if youre visiting.
Best conditions: NE swell at 4+ feet, incoming tide, light offshore winds.
Explore Manasquan →Surfing Tips for NJ
Check Conditions
Use Surfline, Magic Seaweed, or Swellinfo for forecasts. Wave heights, wind direction, and tide matter.
Respect Locals
Many breaks have regulars. Wait your turn, dont drop in, and be friendly. Youll get more waves.
Know the Rules
Many beaches restrict surfing to designated areas or certain hours during summer. Check signs.
Bring the Right Board
NJ beach breaks work well with shortboards and fish. Longboards for smaller days.
Wetsuit Guide
Summer
Jun-Aug
Board shorts or spring suit
Water: 65-75°F
Fall
Sep-Nov
3/2mm fullsuit
Water: 55-68°F
Winter
Dec-Mar
5/4mm + boots, gloves, hood
Water: 38-50°F
Spring
Apr-May
4/3mm fullsuit
Water: 48-60°F
Explore All Shore Towns
Find surf shops, lessons, and more at each destination.
View All Towns