Newport's Breaks

Second Beach

Skill Level: Beginner/intermediate to advanced.
Wave Type: Beach break.
Best Swell Direction: SSW
Best Wind Direction: NE to WNW
Best Tide: Mid tide.
Swell Direction Range: SSE to SW.
Surfable Break Size: Thigh plus.
Bottom Type: Sand some rocks on the West end of the beach.

Comments: A nice beach break right in Middleton (right next to Newport). Doesn't handle really big surf well. Gets crowded when weather is nice. While this spot is rated “For everyone”, the summer crowds can be so dense that it might be a tough spot to learn at.
Hazards: Massive amounts of red algae in the summer turn the sea into a red smelly soup. Don’t know if its a health hazard. But your surf widow/widower’s reaction might be if you try to leave her/him on the beach.
Localism: Close to none, though crowds can make for tense exchanges.
Directions: Follow Mapquest’s directions to 684 Paradise Ave., Newport, RI.
Parking: The parking lot right in front of the beach, which is ~$15.
Links to Check Before You Go:

-Elemental’s Surf Report: (401) 841 5160

First Beach

Skill Level: For everyone.
Wave Type: Beach Break.
Best Swell Direction: SE.
Best Wind Direction: NE to NW.
Best Tide: None.
Swell Direction Range: SE to S
Surfable Break Size: Waist plus.
Bottom Type: Sand.

Comments: First beach is a large beach break that sometimes gets waves, but they are usually smaller and more closed out than second beach.
Hazards: Summer crowds, on the beach.
Localism: Close to none.
Directions: Follow Mapquest’s directions to 160 Memorial Blvd., Newport, RI.
Parking: A large parking lot on the west side of the beach, which is ~$15.
Links to Check Before You Go:

-Elemental’s Surf Report: (401) 841 5160