The Hamptons' surf is small, cold and consistent, concentrated at one famous point and a string of beach breaks along the Atlantic. Ditch Plains in Montauk is the main break, an exposed reef that works any time of year. Georgica in East Hampton Village is a beach-and-jetty break, and the state parks at Montauk allow surfing.
Most of the rest is any open-ocean beach that gets swell, shared with swimmers under the lifeguards' rules. The season and swell guide covers when it works, and the Ditch Plains guide covers the main break in depth.
Where the Hamptons surfs
- the main break
Ditch Plains Beach
An exposed reef that works at any time of year, with a lifeguarded beach and a food truck behind it.
- the jetty break
Georgica Beach
A beach-and-jetty break on a southwest swell, with dangerous rips to negotiate.
- in a state park
Hither Hills State Park
Surfing and windsurfing are allowed, and a 4WD beach surfing permit is available.
The breaks
| Break | Type | Best swell | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ditch Plains, Montauk | Exposed reef; left and right | South-southeast | Often crowded; rocks are a hazard |
| Georgica, East Hampton | Beach and jetty | Southwest | Can get busy; dangerous rips |
| Montauk Point State Park | Ocean surf | Varies | Surfing and windsurfing; sunrise to sunset |
| Hither Hills State Park | Ocean surf | Varies | Surfing and windsurfing; separate 4WD surfing permit |
Sharing a guarded beach
Lifeguards decide where surfers and swimmers go. The Village of East Hampton bars fishing, watercraft and surfboards in designated swimming areas, so surfers use the unmarked stretch beside the flags or a beach without a swim zone. Ask the guard where the surf area is each day.
What to know first
The water is cold for most of the year, and the water temperature table shows how cold. Rip currents form around jetties and sand bars, which are the same places surfers look for waves. Read the rip current guide.
Questions
Is there surfing in the Hamptons?
Yes. Ditch Plains in Montauk is the best-known break, Georgica in East Hampton has a jetty beach break and the Montauk state parks allow surfing.
Can you surf at a lifeguarded beach?
Usually only outside the designated swimming area. The Village of East Hampton bars surfboards in designated swim areas; ask the lifeguard where to go.