South Beach in Newport is a popular surfing destination located just over the Yaquina River bridge. The beach is known for its miles of typical beachbreak, which makes it a versatile spot for surfers of various skill levels. The area is part of South Beach State Park, which offers plenty of amenities for visitors, including a large campground with facilities for tents, RVs, and year-round yurts.

The surf here typically works best with west swells, but you can also catch waves when the swell comes from the south or northwest. The beach breaks mainly offer lefts but there are rights available too. This spot can handle swell sizes starting from around 2 feet (0.6 meters), making it a decent place for beginners to get accustomed to the water. It's worth noting that low to mid tides generally provide the best conditions for surfing.

Due to the beach's sandy bottom, it’s a forgiving place for novice surfers. The preferred wind direction is from the east, which helps to clean up the waves. South Beach is a great spot to enjoy a laid-back surfing session, especially if you’re still learning the ropes. Just keep an eye on the tide and swells for a better experience.