Nahant Beach Surf Guide

Surf spot guide

Ideal Surf Conditions

Swell Direction

NE, E

Wind

W

Surf Height

Knee-high to overhead.

Tide

Backwash at dead high.

Nahant Beach Surf Guide

The bending expanse of Nahant is basically average beachbreak, through it does offer some protection from southerly winds. If there’s a big swell in the water, Nahant Island will likely be the best wave of the bunch. The most consistently surfed spot on NE swells, through, is on the north side of the harbor, which offers the most protection from S winds.

Ability Level

Intermediate - Advanced

BegIntAdv

This is not Massachusetts’ best beachbreak. That said, it is still a Massachusetts beachbreak. Adequate tuberiding skills required.

Local Vibe

Doable

WelcomingIntimidating

Normal deal, plus kiteboarding rules/etiquette.

Crowd Factor

Moderate

MellowHeavy

The colder and glassier it is, the more mellow it will be. Kiteboarders and windsurfers abound.

Spot Rating

Poor

PoorPerfect

Far from the best spot in the state, but it can be serviceable on the right day.

Shoulder Burn

Medium

LightExhausting

Not nearly as bad as it is at more exposed spots.

Water Quality

Clean

CleanDirty

Historically passed water quality tests at least 95% of the time.

Hazards

Sharks, hypothermia, rogue kiteboards.

Bring Your

Shortboard, Fish, Funboard, Longboard, Kiteboard

Access

Daily parking fees May-November, $10 state residents, $40 out-of-staters.

Bottom

Sand and rock.

Best Season

September-December

Do you have local knowledge about Nahant Beach?

If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]