Beginner Surf Guide

Beginner Surf Spots in Long Beach

Long Beach, Washington · 0 beginner-friendly breaks

Use this page to find the cleanest beginner window, not the biggest score.

Best Beginner Breaks in Long Beach

Best Months for Beginner Surfing

Spring

Decent

Mar-May

2-8 ft46-48°F5/4mm + boots/gloves/hood

Mixed 2-8 ft waves — look for calmer days. 46-48°F water, 5/4mm + boots/gloves/hood recommended.

Summer

Decent

Jun-Aug

2-4 ft50-55°F4/3mm

Mixed 2-4 ft waves — look for calmer days. 50-55°F water, 4/3mm recommended.

Fall

Tough

Sep-Nov

4-10 ft50-54°F4/3mm

Powerful 4-10 ft waves challenge most beginners. 50-54°F water requires a 4/3mm. Stick to sheltered spots.

Winter

Tough

Dec-Feb

6-12 ft45-48°F5/4mm + boots/gloves/hood

Powerful 6-12 ft waves challenge most beginners. 45-48°F water requires a 5/4mm + boots/gloves/hood. Stick to sheltered spots.

Safety Tips for Long Beach

Rip Currents

Look for channels of darker, choppy water. If caught, swim parallel to shore - never fight the current.

Marine Life

Shuffle your feet when entering shallow water to avoid stingrays, especially in summer months.

Rocks & Reef

Stick to sandy beach breaks as a beginner. Check with locals or lifeguards about underwater hazards.

Etiquette

Stay on the inside as a beginner. Don't paddle into the lineup. Give right of way to surfers already riding.

Gear & Lessons

Board Guide

  • Soft-top foam board, 8-9 ft for adults
  • 7-8 ft for teens and smaller adults
  • Avoid fiberglass boards until you can consistently pop up

Wetsuit Guide

  • Check the water temperature above for today's recommendation
  • Boardshorts/bikini for water above 70°F
  • 3/2mm fullsuit for water below 60°F

Recent Beginner Sessions

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Frequently Asked Questions

About surfing in Long Beach

Long Beach offers several beginner-friendly surf spots with gentle waves and sandy bottoms that are ideal for learning to surf.
Yes! Long Beach offers excellent conditions for learning to surf with consistent small waves, surf schools, and beginner-friendly beaches. The area is known for its welcoming surf community and accessible beach breaks.
Wetsuit requirements in Long Beach vary by season. Summer typically calls for 4/3mm, while winter requires 5/4mm + boots/gloves/hood. Water temperatures range from 44-56°F throughout the year.

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