Beginner Surf Guide
Beginner Surf Spots in Manzanita
Manzanita, Oregon · 1 beginner-friendly break
Challenging Today
7.1 ft · 7 mph nw · 66°F
Based on conditions at Short Sands
Use this page to find the cleanest beginner window, not the biggest score.
Right Now at Short Sands
7.1 ft
Too large for beginners
7 mph nw
Clean conditions
66°F
Warm
Falling (5.8 ft)
Falling
Empty
Empty
Consider waiting for conditions to improve
Best Beginner Breaks in Manzanita
Best Months for Beginner Surfing
Spring
DecentMar-May
Mixed 2-8 ft waves — look for calmer days. 48-50°F water, 4/3mm + boots recommended.
Summer
DecentJun-Aug
Mixed 2-4 ft waves — look for calmer days. 52-58°F water, 4/3mm recommended.
Fall
ToughSep-Nov
Powerful 4-10 ft waves challenge most beginners. 52-56°F water requires a 4/3mm. Stick to sheltered spots.
Winter
ToughDec-Feb
Powerful 6-12 ft waves challenge most beginners. 47-50°F water requires a 5/4mm + boots/gloves/hood. Stick to sheltered spots.
Safety Tips for Manzanita
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
Be the first to share your beginner session in Manzanita! Log a session with a photo and it could be featured here.
Frequently Asked Questions
About surfing in Manzanita
- The top beginner-friendly surf spots in Manzanita include Short Sands. These spots feature gentle waves, sandy bottoms, and manageable crowds, making them ideal for learning to surf.
- Yes! Manzanita 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 Manzanita vary by season. Summer typically calls for 4/3mm, while winter requires 5/4mm + boots/gloves/hood. Water temperatures range from 46-58°F throughout the year.
Make the next surf call sharper
Check the forecast, surf the session, log what happened, and help Quiver keep tuning your local calls.
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