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1st Street Jetty is one of the key spots for surfing in Virginia Beach, situated right by the north side of Rudee Inlet. This jetty plays a major role in holding sand and directing swells, making it a local hotspot for surfers. While conditions can vary, it often has the most consistent surf around, especially when other breaks are flat. Expect plenty of competition from both locals and visiting surfers, especially during events.
The waves at 1st Street usually break right and can handle swells from the south and southeast, with sizes ranging from about 1 meter (3 ft) to 2.4 meters (8 ft). It performs best during low to mid tides and is ideal with west winds. The sandy bottom makes for a safer surf experience, and you can see surfers of all levels here, from beginners to experts. On busy days, the lineup can get chaotic, and every surfer is out there vying for their share of the waves.
Access to the beach is decent, with metered parking available near the old Lighthouse Restaurant site. The atmosphere is lively, often described as a circus, especially during the summer months when more people hit the water. It’s common to see a mix of surfboards ranging from shortboards to longboards, and even some other types like kiteboards or SUP. Events like the East Coast Surfing Championships keep the jetty buzzing, attracting both novice and seasoned surfers looking for fun waves.