Octagon is a widely known surf spot in Surfside, sitting just off a stretch of open beach. The sandbars are located between 150 to 300 yards (137 to 274 meters) offshore, providing a mix of fun waves for surfers. It’s not just a spot for pros; whether you’re on a longboard or a funboard, there's something for everyone here, though it can get pretty busy, especially on weekends.
When it comes to the waves, Octagon features long, mushy walls that can grow in size, ranging from waist high (about 1 meter) to double overhead (around 2 meters). It handles swells from various directions like Southeast, South, and East, with sizes from 1ft to 7ft (0.3 to 2.1 meters). The waves break over sand and come in both left and right, making it a versatile spot for different preferences. The best time to hit the water is during low to mid to high tides, and the favorable wind directions are from the West, Northwest, and North. It’s suitable for surfers of all abilities, from beginners to experts, but you might want to keep an eye on those bigger swells.
Getting to Octagon is easy, but be careful on the breakwater as you make your way over. Although there's a good crowd on the weekends, the local vibe tends to stay pretty chill. With the surf near the Freeport harbor, keep in mind that the area is home to several chemical plants, so be aware of your surroundings. The best seasons for surfing here are late summer and fall, along with late winter to mid-spring.