Overview
Jupiter Inlet South Jetty is a very popular benchmark break in Palm Beach County, with sandbars running between Jupiter Inlet and Juno Beach Pier. It breaks over sand, with an inside peak on smaller swells and a way-out-back peak on bigger east swells.
The outside right is the wave that makes the inlet famous, especially when it wraps toward the jetty with hollow sections. A decent left can also break off the main outside peak.
When It Works
The spot is consistent and is usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 3 m / 10 ft. The optimal swell direction is northeast, with north through east-northeast to southeast also in the swell window.
Fall through spring is the main season, with hurricane season also in play. On good swells, sections of the sandbars can create long walls, and the south side of Jupiter Inlet is one of the better big-wave options around.
Wind and Tide
Offshore wind is west, with west-northwest also noted as a good direction.
Low tide to mid tide works, and a rising tide is better. Lower tide on the push is the main window. Be careful around the inlet: a strong outgoing tide can create serious current, especially near the jetty.
Local Tips
It gets crowded, and the main peak can be competitive, though the overall lineup atmosphere is generally friendly. There are more peaks to the south, especially on north or northeast swell.
Shortboards, fish, funboards, and longboards all fit here. The surf is often mellow enough for beginners, but the better waves at the inlet peak are better left to surfers who can handle crowds, current, and positioning.
Watch out for rocks, sharks, jellyfish, sea lice, and occasional dirty lagoon water mixing in.
Access
Park and paddle. There is a car park with free parking, plus restrooms, showers, a lifeguard, and a surf shop nearby.
