River Jetties Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
SSE, S, SW; also short period W, WNW; combo of North and South Hemi swells
Wind
NE, Santa Anas.
Surf Height
Chest-overhead
Tide
All tides.
River Jetties Surf Guide
Santa Ana River Jetties is the most consistent spot in Newport. It is, however, extremely varied in shape and depends on the contour of the sandbars. Lefts tend to be fast and predominant during S swells and can turn hollow on a light offshore wind. Westerly winds easily blow out the spot. In winter, the break is far peakier. Steep peaks are found on the right tide, but if you don't surf the spot regularly, the chances of a great day are slim.
Ability Level
Intermediate - Advanced
Intermediate to advanced.
Local Vibe
Doable
Tolerant.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Moderate to heavy.
Spot Rating
Fun
Punchy little beachbreak most days, can get exceptional on a good combo or tropical swell.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
Pretty short paddle most days, but can be a lot of work on a strong south or northwest swell with current.
Water Quality
Dirty
Not great, toxic after a big rain.
Hazards
Too many people in the way, getting sick or infections.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Fish, Bodyboard, Bodysurfing
Access
Street parking with a few meters sprinkled in for good measure. Double check that street sweeping day, if there are available spots galore it's probably too good to be true.
Bottom
Sand.
Best Season
March-October, but can be good on some W or NW swells November-February.
Do you have local knowledge about River Jetties?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]