Naval Jetty

Naval Jetty is a surf spot located in Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, USA Northeast. The spot is situated within Cape Henlopen State Park, near Herring Point, past an old World War II lighthouse. The surf spot provides right waves. Naval Jetty features a sandbar bottom held together by ancient cedar tree stumps, creating a unique surfing environment. The spot works best during low and medium tides, with wave lengths ranging from 150 to 300 meters. It’s considered a regional classic and is suitable for beginners. The spot experiences regular wave frequency and can get crowded. Nearby surf spots include The Cove, Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, Tower Road, and Indian River Inlet. To access Naval Jetty, head north on Route 1 towards Lewes, DE, take the Cape Henlopen Park exit, and follow the road past the town of Lewes and the Cape May/Lewes Ferry. Pay the park fee and take the first left, then right at the stop sign. Continue until you reach an old lighthouse and Herring Point. From there, it’s a short walk down some sand dunes to the beach. The spot can be competitive with locals, so it’s important to know and respect surf etiquette, especially when crowded. Check your skills before paddling out to make sure the spot and conditions fit your surfing level. Naval Jetty offers a very long right wave, making it popular among longboarders. The wave is relatively slow, providing easy take-offs for beginners. Most surfers sit in front of the rock jetty for long rides. Be cautious of the submerged tree stumps in the water. The area features some of the tallest sand dunes between Cape Hatteras and Cape Cod. The best surf conditions occur during south to southeast swells, with optimal wind direction from the west. Wave heights can range from chest-high to overhead. Naval Jetty is one of the few surfing beaches open during summer. The surf season is storm-dependent, with the best action coming from tropical cyclones in late summer and fall, as well as nor’easters in late fall and winter. Various board types work well here, including shortboards, funboards, longboards, and fish. The area has faced environmental challenges, including erosion and jetty deterioration, which have impacted the surf break. Local organizations have been involved in efforts to address these issues and promote the health of the surf spot.