South End Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
South End Surf Guide
One of the towns where surfing first thrived on the East Coast, Ocean City is still one of the most active and visible surfing communities. The Ocean City Surfing Association (OCSA) got its start in the early ’60s and continues to thrive. During a decent swell, the area from 1st Street through 10th Street offers some of the best-quality surf in South Jersey. It’s not uncommon to find perfect barrels racing down the beach for a block or more off any one of the rock jetties in this part of town. Farther to the south, both the 14th Street Pier and the 59th Street Pier offer fun rights and lefts, depending on the swell. Ocean City’s downside is the limited surfing areas during the summer, which leads to overcrowding. Beach tags are required.
Ability Level
All Abilities
Depends on sandbar and swell size.
Local Vibe
Doable
Reasonably mellow.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Medium, depending on sandbar/swell.
Spot Rating
Fun
One of the better zones in south Jersey.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
Not super gnarly, unless big -- watch for rip currents.
Water Quality
Fair
Decent.
Hazards
Jetties. Crowds.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Fish, Funboard, Longboard, Bodyboard, Bodysurfing
Access
Numerous parking lots near the beach. Beach tags required.
Bottom
Sand/jetties.
Best Season
September-February.
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