Chapter 4: Surf Conditions and Reports in Delaware
A Delaware surf report will give you all the information you need to understand the water and weather conditions before you step into the waves. Understanding these conditions is essential for a safe and fun water experience. The weather can quickly impact the water and create rough conditions. Take a look at the information below to understand these reports and where you can find them before your next water adventure.
How Big Are the Waves in Delaware?
Although the weather and water conditions may seem similar throughout Delaware, you'll still want to check out the reports for your locations before entering the ocean. Below, you can find beach-specific reports to find the best time to ride the waves safely.
Bethany Beach Surf Report
Surfers of all experience levels can enjoy the waves at Bethany Beach. The crowds are often moderate in size, and the water is clean and refreshing. The best season to surf at this location is dependent on storms. During the summer, there are some surfing restrictions and flat spells with low waves. Some swells can be more challenging to navigate than others during peak seasons.
Fenwick Island Surf Report
The ideal swell directions for Fenwick Island are south, southeast or northeast. The best days will feature southwestern or western winds and a low and incoming tide. The surf height can reach about chest high, occasionally moving overhead. The crowds are typically lighter at Fenwick Island compared to some other beach locations. All surfer levels can enjoy these waves.
Naval Jetties Surf Report
Naval Jetties is within Cape Henlopen State Park. This location is one of the only places to find hills in Delaware, and surfing at this location can be challenging under the wrong conditions. A Cape Henlopen surf report will highlight whether there is a large crowd, which is helpful for this location because there is only one takeoff spot. This location is suitable for shortboards, longboards, funboards and fishing, but there are not many opportunities for other water activities.
Gordons Pond Surf Report
This spot is more of a hidden gem for visitors, but many locals frequent it. The best conditions for Gordons Pond are western winds with swell directions going south, east and southeast. The beachbreak can become hollow and heavy and hold a well-overhead surf. This location is best for intermediate or advanced surfers, and you can bring bodyboards, longboards, funboards and shortboards to the water.
Rehoboth Beach Surf Report
Autumn and most of October are the best time to see consistent waves at Rehoboth Beach. When western winds combine with an eastern swell, you can find delightful waves for surfing and other water activities. This beach can see heavy crowds during the summer.
Dewey Beach Surf Report
You'll want to hit Dewey Beach when there's southwest or west wind and south, southeast or northeast swell. Low and incoming tides are the ideal conditions for this location, and beginners, intermediate and advanced surfers can enjoy the overhead surf. This spot is an average beachbreak surf, so the crowds don't typically get overwhelming. This spot is great for a variety of water activities.
Indian River Inlet Surf Report
Indian River Inlet is best for more advanced surfers on the south side. This location can be more challenging to navigate, especially in ideal conditions such as southwest or west winds and south or southeast swells. The crowds can become very large at this location during the summer, but the fall and winter feature fewer beachgoers and better waves for surfing.
Visit Surf Bagel for Snacks While Reviewing Live Surf Reports
At Surf Bagel, you can find people just as passionate about the water as you. We've combined our love for surfing and great food to create an authentic spot for locals and visitors. Before heading to the beach, stop by Surf Bagel for a bite to eat while you review the surf reports.
Our versatile breakfast, lunch and snack menus have everything you need to fuel up before diving into the blue. While you munch, check out live surf reports for the most recent information about the water and weather conditions.