How to Surf in Cape Cod, MA

It's not Hawaii, but you can still find excellent surf on Cape Cod. Strong currents, constantly changing swells and cool water characterize the 40-mile-long beach. According to the Surfline website, peaks in front of the parking lots are usually the most crowded. Venture further down the beach to find waves that are just as good but with no one around. You will want to wear a wetsuit and booties even in summer, as water temperatures reach only the mid-50s to low-60s.

Things You'll Need

  • Wetsuit
  • Surf booties
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check the surf forecast at the Surf-Report.com website (see "Resources"). Select "United States," "Massachusetts" and your break of choice in the drop-down menus and hit "Go." Look for offshore winds --- these blow away from the beach. Offshore winds mean cleaner waves with nice shape. You can also check the More Beach Cape Cod website. Call any of the Massachusetts surf shops listed under the "Surf Report #'s" header to get more information.

    • 2

      Start from the southern end of the Cape Cod National Sea Shore at Nauset Beach, a popular surf spot that is good for beginners and seasoned pros. If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, obtain a beach pass from the Orleans Police Department to access 5 more miles of beach to Chatham. However, you can surf at the beach without a four-wheel drive.

    • 3

      Make your way further north to Coast Guard Beach in Eastham. Readers of the Best of Cape Cod website voted Coast Guard Beach as the number one beach for surfing on Cape Cod. This beach is known for its consistent summer swell for both shortboard and longboard riders.

    • 4

      Head north to Marconi Beach in Wellfleet. Marconi Beach is protected by tall dune bluffs and known as having the most powerful break on the Cape. Watch out for rocks.

    • 5

      Check out the surf at Wellfleet's White Crest Beach, which is popular for its longboard waves and left breaks, making it a favored spot by beginners and experts.