Long Beach is a popular surf spot located in Gloucester, Massachusetts. It’s known for being one of the most powerful beach breaks in northern Massachusetts, consistently picking up swells and delivering a fun surf experience. The beach can get crowded, especially on good days, but it still feels relatively relaxed compared to other spots. Access to the beach can be tricky since parking is often limited and pricey, so plan ahead if you're heading out.
The surf here can range from knee-high to double overhead (about 0.6 to 3 meters). With optimal swell directions coming from the East and primarily breaking from the NorthEast and SouthEast, it makes for a great setup when conditions are right. The waves break over sand and rocks, with both lefts and rights available for riders. A notable spot is the southern corner, where a hollow left can break nicely into the rocks. Low to mid tide is generally the best time to catch the action, and the preferred wind direction is from the Northwest. This place is better suited for intermediate and expert surfers, so if you're still learning, you might want to work on your skills elsewhere before tackling Long Beach.
With swells that can handle sizes from 2ft to 10ft (around 0.6 to 3 meters), Long Beach attracts a variety of board types, including shortboards, fish, funboards, and longboards. The season runs from September to March, with the Autumn and Winter months providing the best conditions. Just keep in mind that it can get pretty chilly out there, so dress appropriately. If you’re looking to score some solid waves, Long Beach is definitely worth considering.