Manasquan Inlet Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
S, SSE, SE
Wind
W to WSW
Surf Height
Thigh high to double overhead
Tide
Low-mid generally best
Manasquan Inlet Surf Guide
Manasquan Inlet is the northern equivalent to Sebastian Inlet. With a similar jetty setup, waves bounce off the rocks and their power is corralled into a steep right wedge. But where Sebastian tends to lack distance, Manasquan can produce lengthy rides. One of the best-known breaks on the East Coast, the Inlet can take almost anything the Atlantic can dish out. With a SE swell, it can handle up to 20-foot faces with two fast, bowl-shaped peaks and the occasional quality left. It's often the only show in town; any ripple refracts off the jetty to create a workable wave. With a rip running next to the jetty, the Inlet is an easy paddle, even on bigger days. Therefore all types of surfers can easily stumble onto the peak.
Ability Level
Intermediate - Advanced
Not a great beginner spot, mostly rippers when it's good.
Local Vibe
Doable
On the heavy side, especially on tropical swells.
Crowd Factor
Heavy
Heavy, especially on good swells.
Spot Rating
Perfect
One of the better-known spots around for a reason.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
Depends on the swell but can break pretty far out.
Water Quality
Clean
Pretty clean overall.
Hazards
Crowds, grumpy locals, fishing lures, rocks.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Fish, Longboard, Bodyboard
Access
Easy but be aware of beach badges in the summer months
Bottom
Sand
Best Season
September through March
Do you have local knowledge about Manasquan Inlet?
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