Reef Road surf guide

Reef Road is a surf spot located in Palm Beach, Florida. It’s known for its challenging waves and is a popular destination among local surfers. The spot is situated near some pricey oceanfront properties, which adds to its exclusivity. Accessing Reef Road can be tricky, as there is no parking within a mile of the surf area. Surfers often need to find a spot to park further south and then hike in, but the effort is worth it for those looking for a decent surf session.

When it comes to surfing at Reef Road, the waves tend to work best with a north to northeast swell, especially when it gets overhead (about 2 meters). The spot can handle swell sizes reaching up to 6 ft. (around 1.8 meters) and can produce powerful lefts that break over a mix of rock ledge and sand. Best conditions are seen at low tide coming in, but it can also work during mid and high tides. Expect some long paddle-outs, especially in bigger swells, making it more suitable for intermediate surfers who can handle the challenge. The preferable wind direction is from the west, which can help keep the waves clean.

While the surf here can get heavy, it’s important to be aware of the crowd. Despite the access issues, you’ll find quite a few surfers out, particularly during medium-size conditions. During larger swells, the line-up can become more exclusive as it separates the more experienced surfers from beginners. Just be prepared for a workout getting out there, especially if you're catching the bigger waves.