Overview
Wells Beach is a sand-bottom beachbreak running from Mile Road north to the Harbor Jetty, just east of the town of Wells. It serves up tidy, fun peaks for surfers of every ability, and because it faces a little more south than nearby Ogunquit, it can pick up swell the neighboring beaches miss. On a good swell, especially during a hurricane, it can turn hollow and genuinely fun.
When It Works
The beach draws swell from northeast through southeast, with southeast the best match, and that southerly aspect means a south swell shows more here than at Ogunquit. It works from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 3 m / 10 ft, roughly head high to a couple feet overhead, breaking both left and right. Consistency is high, and the prime window runs through autumn and winter, from September into March. It is a decent break that really comes together with the right mix of swell, wind, and tide.
Wind and Tide
Look for northwest offshore wind; the beach's aspect also lets it handle a hint of northerly wind. It can work through most of the tide, but a rising tide is the better call, with a mid incoming tide the best bet.
Local Tips
Both shortboards and longboards suit the peaks here. The lineup stays quiet and can feel a little reserved. Some locals stick to the south side of the jetty, so if you want a peak to yourself, take the walk south. Expect a few rips, and keep in mind that winter brings freezing water that calls for full winter gear.
Access
Parking is a car park beside the harbor jetty, easy to reach if a little inconvenient. It is a pay lot, free in winter only. You will also find restrooms and a lifeguard on hand.
