Beginner Surf Spots in Newport Beach

Newport Beach, California · 5 beginner-friendly breaks

Great for Beginners Today

2.5 ft · 10 mph sw · 57°F

Based on conditions at Newport Lower Jetties

Right Now at Newport Lower Jetties

2.5 ft

Ideal for learning

10 mph sw

Moderate chop

57°F

Cool - wetsuit recommended

Rising (0.8 ft)

Rising

Empty

Empty

Decent conditions – worth a paddle if you’re keen

Best Beginner Breaks in Newport Beach

1

Newport Lower Jetties

★ 3.9 (17)beach2.5 ft today
2

Newport 56th St

★ 3.7 (3)beach4 ft today
3

River Jetties

★ 3.6 (14)beach4 ft today
4

Newport Upper Jetties

★ 3.6 (21)beach2.5 ft today
5

Corona del Mar

★ 3.1 (15)jetty/beach3.7 ft today

Best Months for Beginner Surfing

Spring

Mar-May

Conditions for beginners in Newport Beach during spring.

Summer

Jun-Aug

Conditions for beginners in Newport Beach during summer.

Fall

Sep-Nov

Conditions for beginners in Newport Beach during fall.

Winter

Dec-Feb

Conditions for beginners in Newport Beach during winter.

Safety Tips for Newport 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

What size waves are good for beginners in Newport Beach?
1-3 foot waves are ideal for beginners in Newport Beach. Most beginner spots here consistently have these conditions, especially during summer months.
Do I need a wetsuit to surf in Newport Beach?
It depends on the season. Water temperatures in Newport Beach range throughout the year. Check the current conditions above for today's water temperature and wetsuit recommendation.
Where can I take surf lessons in Newport Beach?
Newport Beach has multiple surf schools operating at beginner-friendly beaches. Look for schools near the top-rated beginner spots listed above.
What is the best time of year to learn to surf in Newport Beach?
Summer typically offers the most beginner-friendly conditions in Newport Beach with smaller, cleaner waves and warmer water. Spring and fall can also be good on smaller swell days.
What board should I use as a beginner in Newport Beach?
Start with a soft-top foam board, 8-9 feet long for adults. These boards provide maximum stability and are forgiving for learning. Most rental shops near Newport Beach beaches carry them.

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