Overview
Fenwick Island is a sand-bottom beachbreak town sitting right on the Delaware/Maryland state line. The waves are fairly nondescript on an average day, but the setup can turn good when the right combination of wind, swell, and sand comes together.
When It Works
Autumn is the prime window, and the surf here is largely storm dependent. Tropical cyclones through late summer and fall, along with frontal systems and nor'easters into late fall and winter, supply most of the swell. The break draws swell from northeast through east-southeast to south-southeast (NE-ESE-SSE), and the sandbars throw both rights and lefts. It's usable from 1.2 m / 4 ft to 2.1 m / 7 ft. Paddling out isn't bad, though certain swells can turn it into more of a workout.
Wind and Tide
Look for southwest offshore wind to clean it up, with a workable wind window running from south-southwest to west (SSW-W). It breaks on low and mid tide, and a rising tide is generally the better call.
Local Tips
Expect a quiet lineup that can feel a little reserved. The spot suits everyone from beginners to experts, and the sand bottom takes just about any craft, from shortboards and fish to funboards, longboards, SUPs, and bodyboards.
Access
Get there early to find a spot, or head to Fenwick Island State Park and pay to park.
