Hillsboro Beach is one of the few spots in the area where you can find some reef breaks. It’s not a surf destination everyone will rush to, but if you're nearby, it might be worth checking out. The beach can get crowded, especially since it’s not too far from population centers. Parking is pretty limited, so keep that in mind if you plan to make a trip. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you might find something to ride here.
The waves at Hillsboro Beach can be decent, particularly when the swell is right. The surf breaks over a mix of sand and coral, mostly producing lefts. The spot handles swells from about 2ft (0.6m) to 8ft (2.4m). For the best results, aim for the low to mid tide. The preferable wind directions are from the south southwest to northwest, which can help clean up the surf. While not the most consistent wave out there, it does offer a bit of everything for shortboards, funboards, longboards, and fish.
Crowd levels tend to be heavy at Hillsboro Beach, giving it a frantic local vibe. So, if you're looking for a chill session, you might want to pick your times wisely. The season for decent surfing is mainly in the fall through spring, so that's when you'll see more action. Just be cautious of the rocks in the area as you paddle out.