Surf: General: 56th Street produces zippy, sometimes world-class lefts on a S swell. Like any high-performance hotbed, if you prove you can fly with the best of them, chances are you'll be given plenty of clearance. Tides: medium Size: chest-overhead Wind: E, NE Swell: SSE, S, SW; also short period W, WNW; combo of North and South Hemi swells Bottom: Sand Paddling: Pretty short paddle most days, but can be a lot of work on a strong south swell with current. Spot Rating: Punchy little beachbreak most days, can get exceptional on a good combo or tropical swell. Access: Street parking with a few meters sprinkled in for good measure. Double check that street sweeping day, if there are available spots galore it's probably too good to be true. Crowds: Crowd Factor: More often than not, you won't be happy with the crowds. Local Vibe: Precious. Environment: Not great after a rain. Hazards: Steep sand-sucking drop-ins, no parking. Season: March-October, but can be good on some W or NW swells November-February.