Third Street surf guide

Third Street is a surf spot located between Avalon Pier and 1st Street, making it a fairly reliable zone to catch some waves. This area is open to a variety of swells, including northeast and tropical swells, and can be surfed at all tides. The quality of the surf largely depends on the sandbars, which can shift due to the constant action from the Atlantic and the occasional beach nourishment. There are no significant structures at Third Street, contributing to its ever-changing nature. When the conditions are right, though, it can get pretty fun.

The waves at Third Street are typically beach breaks that handle swell sizes from about 4 to 8 feet (1.2 to 2.4 meters). You'll find both right and left waves here, with the best sessions usually happening on a southwest wind. Tides can range from low to high, and it tends to work well at low to mid-tide as well as mid to high tide. This spot caters to surfers of all skill levels, from beginners to experts, so there's something for everyone. However, make sure you're aware of the layout since finding your spot can be tough with a right-hand wave that may push you away from the peak during southern swells.

Accessing Third Street can be a bit tricky, as parking is limited. If you’re heading there, it’s best to grab a spot at the Second Street access and take a walk down. Don't risk parking on the street, though, because you might end up with a ticket or worse. The crowd factor is fairly spread out, thanks to the limited parking, although it can get a bit busier when the sandbar is pumping. Overall, the vibe at Third Street is pretty chill, but you might encounter more surfers and a bit of competition up at 1st Street if it's firing.