We are so lucky to have the Atlantic coastline just steps away from our door. And several members of our team take full advantage of the proximity to the ocean by grabbing their boards and riding the waves.
With the recent release of Shaka, our year-round West Coast style Pale Ale (named for the ‘surfs up’ hand signal that you might not have known has an official name), and with summer just around the corner, we thought it was a good time to list a few of what several members of our team agree are the best surfing beaches on the North Shore.
Nahant Beach
Located in the small peninsula of Nahant (right next to our home city of Lynn), this beloved North Shore staple sees crowds of surfers cutting the currents through the summer and fall months, with a range of experience from beginner to vets. Consistent swells can be found later in the season, with chest to head-high waves. One of the more popular learner beaches on the North Shore.
Devereaux Beach
Devereaux Beach is the central public beach for scenic Marblehead, and lies along a sandbar that connects Marblehead Neck to the mainland. This soft, sandy beach can bring in some deceptively large swells, especially if the weather has been stirring things up. Set between rocky shores, this spot has a little bit of everything: from a beloved food stand to a volleyball net (a rare sight at Massachusetts beaches).
Good Harbor Beach
This scenic, family-friendly Gloucester beach is great for beginner to intermediate-level surfers and has limited parking, which prevents it from ever becoming overwhelmingly crowded. Waves are generally tamer than some of the more powerful swells at Atlantic beaches you’ll find in Maine or Cape Cod, but you can expect surges. A clean beach with few rocks is also great for boogie boarding during low tide.
Salisbury Beach
Located right on the Massachusetts/NH border, this sprawling beach includes a state reservation, a boardwalk with open-air arcades (try some classic beach pizza – love it or hate it), and miles of soft sand. Typically the larger waves can be found in September or October, but summer mornings will find chest-high waves and plenty of surfers of all ages braving the icy-cold Atlantic waters.
Cape Hedge Beach
Cape Hedge Beach in beautiful Rockport is as tucked away as its hometown. Limited parking and a footbridge make this a spot frequented more by locals than tourists — but if you know, you know. Cape Hedge is a true hidden gem for adventure-seekers who want to practice their surfing skills with minimal crowds.
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