Newport Reef, also known as The Reef or The Path, is a surf spot that offers a more laid-back vibe compared to the more popular breaks. The crowd levels tend to be lower here, making it a great choice for those looking to escape the hustle of the busier surf spots. It features a mix of uneven reef and sand breaks, with options for surfers of varying skill levels.
The surf here works best with east swells, but it can also handle northeast and south swells. Typically, the waves break to the right. It’s suitable for swell sizes around 3ft (about 0.9 meters). Mid-tide conditions are ideal, and it tends to perform better on low to mid tides. If you're an intermediate surfer, you'll appreciate the spread-out take-off zone, which makes the waves more forgiving. While it can handle some sizeable swells, the overall vibe here is more manageable than other spots, allowing less confident surfers to enjoy the experience.
When you're out there, watch out for scattered rocks as you paddle out. For those looking for a challenge, experts might want to explore Crosswaves, which are found further out off the island. The preferable wind direction for this spot is from the southwest, providing favorable conditions to enjoy your session.