Brookings Jetty surf guide
Surf: General: Considering the jetty's length, its southwest-facing direction, and the offshore rocks that boast a remarkable ability to deflate northerly swells, the surf at Brookings surf is usually more piddly than what you'll find above Crescent City or up around Gold Beach. During higher tides, the surf breaks close to shore, and that's when it's usually at its best and mushiest shape. At low tide, the sand bottom draws dangerously close to the ocean surface, providing for some hollow, fast peaks, left and right, although closeouts dominate. The southbound littoral drift has been known to be a wee bit inconvenient, but beginners will find the Brookings Jetty to be user-friendly, as the beach slopes gently and inside whitewater abounds.
Tides: Medium to high
Size: Waist high-overhead
Wind: NE
Swell: SW
Bottom: Sand
Paddling: Not too bad.
Spot Rating: Kinda fun.
Access: From 101 south, bear left onto West Benham Lane, the first stoplight north of California. Follow the road down the hill and turn left onto Boat Basin Road at Beachfront RV Park. Veer into the dirt parking strip directly in front of the surf spot.
Crowds: Crowd Factor: The jetty waters are always occupied on hot afternoons and weekends, but relatively empty any other time. Ignore the Brookings high schoolers who might try to throw a little attitude your way.
Local Vibe: Generally mellow, given the spot's lack of punch.
Environment: Mostly clean.
Hazards: Renegade RVs, moderate shark danger due to the jetty's proximity to the Chetco Rivermouth.
Season: June-October