Wooden Jetties (Ocean County Coast)

Wooden Jetties is a fairly exposed beach/jetty break on Long Beach Island (Holgate section of the Edwin B. Forsythe Wildlife Refuge). The spot is known for producing fairly consistent surf that can work year-round, with wave shape and quality influenced by the old wooden groyne/jetty field. The break is generally best around mid tide and often performs well with northwest offshore winds. Depending on swell angle, riders can find both lefts and right/varied wave directions, with offshore wind tending to groom the wave faces. Wave quality is described as average to fairly consistent rather than constantly top-tier. Safety is a key priority: rip currents are commonly present alongside the wooden structures, and hazards include old submerged/semi-submerged wooden pilings/groynes and other wreckage. Wooden elements can be hidden just below the surface, so maintain board control and avoid surfing carelessly near structure lines. Winter conditions also bring very cold water. For best months, sources highlight March as a standout for clean, rideable conditions; September through November are also noted as good windows in other seasonal guidance. The most reliable “feel” for performance is often tied to mid-tide timing with offshore NW winds, while larger swell can increase the chance of sections closing out near the jetty field.