Surf: General: Nondescript beachbreak between the Poles and Jax Pier, Atlantic Beach’s 18th Street is probably just as consistent as any other beachbreak of the northern Jax beaches — consistently so-so. It will, however, accommodate a range of swells and tides, particularly N/NE swells on mid-tides, but isn’t known for handling anything more than a foot or two overhead. Tides: Paddle out at dead low and stay awhile. Size: Knee-high to a few feet overhead. Wind: W, SW Swell: NE Bottom: Sand. Paddling: Can be some drift to contend with, since Jax beaches like the colder, sweepier swells. Spot Rating: This might be the best kept secret in all of Jacksonville — or it’s an average Florida beachbreak. Access: Limited free parking. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Random people come and go, just like you. Local Vibe: Fairly mellow with the occasional agro local. Environment: Between the St. Johns River and the Mayport U.S. Naval Station, the Jax Beaches are known for their brown, murky waters, among other pollutants. However, this spot’s historically passed water quality tests at least 95% of the time. Hazards: Sharks, jellyfish, sea lice, lightning. Season: September-March