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Ship Bottom is a popular surf spot on Long Beach Island, New Jersey, known for its rich surfing history. This area stretches along 18 miles of coastline and offers a range of surf experiences that can cater to different skill levels. While the surf can be fun, keep in mind that the quality has been affected by beach replenishment projects, which have altered some of the natural breaks. However, when the conditions are right, you can still find some decent waves here.
The surf at Ship Bottom can handle swells ranging from about 3 feet (0.9 meters) to 10 feet (3 meters). The sand bottom provides a consistent area for the waves to break, and you can catch both lefts and rights. The best swells come from the South to East-Northeast, but a mix of swell directions can also produce fun rides. Generally, this spot does well on low to mid tides, and the wind from the northwest to north is preferred. It's suitable for surfers of all abilities, from beginners to experts, especially with boards like shortboards, fish, funboards, longboards, and bodyboards.
Access to Ship Bottom can be hit-or-miss due to street parking limitations, but there are plenty of beach access points available. Expect to see more crowds in the summer, while winter can offer some solitude, especially on less favorable days. Keep an eye out for rip currents and shallow sections while you’re out there. Overall, Ship Bottom provides a solid surfing option for those looking to ride the waves on Long Beach Island.