Long Beach is a popular surf spot located on the south shore of Long Island. It has a good stretch of sandy beach that attracts many surfers throughout the year. The area tends to get quite crowded, especially on weekends and during the summer months. The vibe here is pretty laid-back, making it a decent place for surfers of all skill levels to hang out and catch some waves.
This spot mainly works best on a southeast swell, with optimal conditions when swells are coming from the southeast and directions from east and south also producing rideable waves. It can handle swell sizes from about 2ft (0.6 meters) and can produce both left and right breaks over sand. The waves here can sometimes get hollow and fun, particularly during lower tides, although they often come in pretty organized but smaller compared to other spots on the island. Ideally, the wind should be coming from the north, making the conditions a bit more favorable. Surfers can enjoy the waves at low, mid, and high tide, which offers some flexibility depending on the time of day.
While Long Beach is beginner-friendly, it’s important to be aware of the rips that can occur here. Combining these currents with the crowded surf can make for a challenging experience, especially for those new to the sport. It's a good idea to keep an eye on the conditions and understand your limits when you paddle out.