Broadway Beach, the southernmost break in New Jersey, is part of a series of jetties that has seen some improvements in recent years. After a sand-pumping program, the spot has developed some decent bars, making it a place worth checking out. It gets pretty consistent, especially with those northeast swells, but don’t expect it to be empty. Crowds can be significant here, especially during prime times like spring and summer.
The waves at Broadway mainly deliver well-shaped lefts that can get hollow and fun, alongside a handful of bowly rights. You're looking at the best surf when the swell is in the waist-high to overhead range (about 1-2 meters). The optimal swell direction is northeast, while it can also handle swells from the south. Paddling is generally mellow to moderate, depending on the size of the swell. It’s best during mid to high tide, though it can still work on low tide. The main peak tends to shift a bit down the beach, but you can find lined-up lefts and some wedgy rights throughout the stretch. For those who prefer other board types, this spot works well with shortboards, fish, funboards, longboards, and bodyboards.
Access to Broadway is straightforward, though the summer months can make it a bit tougher due to the influx of tourists. You’ll need beach tags, and remember that surfing is off-limits during the day in summer, but bodyboarders can enjoy the waves unrestricted. If you’re hitting it during a big nor’easter or hurricane swell, brace yourself for crowds, as it’s not uncommon to see 100 to 150 surfers out on the water when conditions get spicy. It's a fun spot for all levels, especially in the autumn and winter months.