Surf: Consistent, hollow peaks between the two jetties at the rivermouth. Needs a lower tide and any SW swell. Shallow sand bottom. Environment: Polluted and extremely crowded when it’s on. Limited parking on the Newport side, pay to park on the Huntington side. Surf: General: Santa Ana River Jetties is the most consistent spot in Newport. If Huntington looks flat, go check River Jetties because there's almost always something to ride. River Jetties is, however, extremely varied in shape and depends on the contour of the sandbars. Lefts tend to be fast and predominant during S swells and can turn hollow on a light offshore wind. Westerly winds easily blow out the spot. In winter, the break is far peakier. Steep peaks are found on the right tide, but if you don't surf the spot regularly, the chances of a great day are slim. Because River Jetties is a fast shortboard wave, you tend to get aggressive crowds. But if you can lay down a solid turn, you're welcome out there. Tides: all tides Size: Chest-overhead Wind: NE, Santa Anas 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 or northwest 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: Moderate to heavy. Local Vibe: Tolerant. Environment: Not great, toxic after a big rain. Hazards: Too many people in the way, getting sick or infections. Season: March-October, but can be good on some W or NW swells November-February.