Boilers is an east-end break in Surfside, located near the site of a submerged Confederate Blockade Runner called the Acadia. The name comes from the boiler stacks that were once visible but can no longer be seen from the beach. This spot tends to be a bit isolated compared to the crowded jetties, making it a decent option when looking to escape the busier areas.
When it comes to surfing at Boilers, the break can handle swell sizes from around 1 foot (0.3 meters) up to about 7 feet (2.1 meters). You’ll typically find waves breaking over sand, with both left and right rides available. The swell comes in from directions like South, Southeast, and even as far as East-Southeast. The best time to catch it is during mid to high tide, especially when the wind is blowing from the Northwest, North, or even the West-Northwest. This spot is suitable for surfers of various skill levels, from beginners to experts, so you’ll likely see a mix of board types like shortboards, funboards, longboards, and fishes in the water.
Access to Boilers is straightforward; you can park right on the beach. One thing to keep in mind is that the area can have strong longshore currents, which makes drift sessions a real option here. While the crowd factor is usually low, the local vibe tends to be positive, so you won’t feel out of place. Just watch out for loose sand if you’re driving on the beach.