Overview
Franklin Street is essentially a beachbreak that works best on wind swells, with a reef off Mead Street that comes to life on larger groundswells. It breaks over sand and throws up both rights and lefts across beach and reef peaks, and it doesn't ask for much of a paddle. The water is surprisingly clean for somewhere this close to a populated area. It's an average spot overall, and no one is driving here solely to surf it.
When It Works
The break draws swell from north-northeast to northeast (NNE-NE) and is usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft. It's at its best on wind swells, and both this beachbreak and the Mead Street reef are consistent windswell spots, so it's worth looking elsewhere during hurricane and winter groundswells. Expect the best conditions across spring, autumn, and winter.
Wind and Tide
The workable wind window runs from south-southwest through west to north-northwest (SSW-W-NNW), with west (W) the offshore direction. It works on low and mid tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
Funboards, longboards, and fish all suit the waves here, and it's approachable for beginners, intermediates, and experts alike. Expect a very busy lineup when it's working, and the atmosphere can feel a little reserved. Wind swell peaks break up and down the beach, so surfers tend to spread out along the sand. Keep an eye out for sea lice in spring and man-of-war during windswells, and be aware that sharks are present.
Access
You can't surf here between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., so plan your sessions for the early morning or the evening.
