Santa Ana River Jetties is a popular surf spot located at the Newport Beach rivermouth. It's known for its consistent waves, making it a go-to choice for surfers looking to catch some rideable swells. While it might not be the most pristine location, many surfers flock here because there’s almost always something to ride, especially when Huntington looks flat. Access can be a bit tricky, with limited street parking and heavy crowds during peak times, but it's worth the effort for the right conditions.
This spot features a mainly sand bottom and can handle swell sizes from 2ft to 8ft (0.6m to 2.4m). The best time to surf here is during lower tides, with the most favorable swell directions coming from the South, Southwest, and even some Northwesterly swells. You can expect a mix of lefts and rights, with lefts being generally faster and more predominant during South swells. The waves can be punchy and hollow, especially on a light offshore wind, but they can easily get blown out by strong westerly winds. River Jetties is known for its shortboard and fish-friendly waves, but it’s also suitable for bodyboarding and bodysurfing. Most surfers here should have at least an intermediate skill level for the best experience.
Typically, the crowds are moderate to heavy, making for an energetic lineup. If you're comfortable laying down solid turns, you might find a place among the more aggressive surfers who's usually present in the water. While the surf is good from March to October, winter months can surprise you with quality waves during certain Northwest swells. Keep an eye on the conditions, and don’t forget the strong currents that can come into play on more substantial swells.
