Newport Point is a fickle beach break at 18th Street, throwing both lefts and rights over a sand bottom. When it comes together it's the best show in town, a hellfire barrel that can top any other break in the county. That only happens on the right hurricane and south swells, so it stays a rare event, and overall the spot earns a good rating despite being somewhat inconsistent.
When It Works
It draws swell from south through southwest, with southwest (SW) the best match, and the sandbar really comes alive on large south swells and Mexican hurricane pulses. The break works from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 3.7 m / 12 ft, so expect anything from head-high to well overhead when it's on. The main window runs spring through autumn, and it can be sneaky good on south windswell in winter. Don't count on it too often, though, because it only breaks when the swell and period line up just right.
Wind and Tide
Look for northeast (NE) offshore wind to clean it up. It favors low tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This one suits intermediate surfers ready to work for it, whether you're on a shortboard, bodyboard, or gun. Expect a very busy lineup when it breaks, with a neutral atmosphere in the water. Paddling can be a grind, and you'll likely wear a few on the head. It also turns hazardous when the swell gets big, and it's not great after rain.
Access
Parking is roadside and free, with a handful of metered spots mixed in. Keep an eye on the street sweeping schedule, because if there are wide-open spaces it's probably too good to be true.
