Overview
Bethany is a consistent beachbreak with lefts and rights over sand, plus jetty setups along the mile-long boardwalk. Old beach groins help form sandbars that can produce decent to excellent surf, and Main Street is the standout spot.
It is often small and clean, with rights off the jetty in northeast to south swell that can start as a barrel and then wall up. Ride length depends on swell direction.
When It Works
Autumn is the main season, with late-summer and fall tropical cyclones, then frontal activity and nor’easters into late fall and winter. Summer can bring flat spells and surfing restrictions.
Bethany likes northeast through east-southeast to south swell, with east as the optimal swell direction. South and southeast swell are also noted. It is usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 3 m / 10 ft.
Wind and Tide
West wind is offshore, and southwest wind can also be good. Low tide with an incoming tide is the better window, though the spot can work through low, mid, and high tide when there is enough swell.
Local Tips
Paddling is usually not bad, but it can take some work on certain swells.
Crowds are moderate and usually not too bad, while the lineup can feel a bit reserved. The spot suits a wide range of abilities, from beginners to experts, and works with shortboards, fish, funboards, longboards, SUPs, skimboards, bodyboards, bodysurfing, and kiteboards.
There are no major hazards noted.
Access
There are restrooms, showers, and a lifeguard. Parking options include a car park, paid parking, and roadside parking.
All public parking spaces are pay-to-park or require a permit from May 15 through September 15. Parking is free for the rest of the year.
