Bradley Beach is a quiet coastal spot located in North Jersey, offering a laid-back vibe for surfers looking for a chill day on the waves. It may not be the top destination for the best surf in the state, but it has consistent conditions, especially during the fall, winter, and spring months. The beach features several jetties that help shape the surf, making it accessible and enjoyable for all skill levels. Just be mindful of beach badges during the summer months when you visit.
When it comes to the surf, Bradley Beach can handle swell sizes from 3 ft to 8 ft (about 0.9 m to 2.4 m) and works best with Southeast swell directions. You’ll find both left and right breaks over the sandy bottom, and the best tides are generally low to mid. The waves tend to be waist high to well overhead, depending on the conditions. If the wind is coming from the west, that's ideal for catching some fun rides. On busy days, the crowds can get a bit mellow to moderate, with local longboarders hanging around, so be prepared to share the waves.
The shorebreak can make paddling a bit challenging on those bigger days, but for the most part, it’s manageable. The beach is clean overall, which adds to the appeal of surfing here. Bradely Beach is a suitable spot for a wide range of board types, including shortboards, fish, funboards, longboards, and even bodyboards. Keep that in mind along with the fact that the prime surfing season runs from September through March to get the best out of your surf sessions.