Blackies Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
Short to mid-period WSW/W swells.
Wind
NE
Surf Height
Knee- to head-high.
Tide
All tides.
Blackies Surf Guide
A popular beach break tucked between the 28th Street jetty and the Newport Pier, Blackies has a storied history dating back to the early 1960s, but more recently became the center of the Newport logging scene. Peaky sand bars provide short, fast sections for noseriding when small, while hollow corners serve up barrels and bangable sections when the swell fills in.
Ability Level
All Abilities
Everyone from total novices to pro longboarders and high-performance shredders.
Local Vibe
Doable
Crowded enough that localism doesn't really matter, although there has definitely been a hierarchy in place for decades.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
This is the heart of Newport Beach's hipster surf culture, so it gets busy.
Spot Rating
Fun
A regional classic, Blackies is the quintessential Newport beach break.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
You'll deal with a bit of current during long-period swells.
Water Quality
Clean
Stays relatively clean as long as there isn't runoff from rainstorms.
Hazards
Crowds, rocks, pier supports.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Fish, Funboard, Longboard, Bodyboard
Access
Pay for parking and paddle out between the pier and the jetty.
Bottom
Sandbar fed by a nearby jetty and pier.
Best Season
Autumn typically provides a combination of south and west swells, as well as ideal wind and weather conditions.
Do you have local knowledge about Blackies?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]