The Wedge in Newport Beach, CA is likely one of the most famous surf breaks in the world. Featured in the movie ‘Endless Summer’ and memorialized by surf music icon Dick Dale, the Newport Wedge is a perfect blend of danger and excitement for avid bodysurfers or spectators. While most board surfers stay out of the crushing power of The Wedge, bodysurfers frequent this spot, especially when the waves are at their highest.

The large peak waves reaching to 10 or 20 feet generated at the Wedge are produced by SSW swells striking the rock jetty and bouncing back into the oncoming swells. The largest waves at the Wedge can be seen during the summer and fall months when tropical storms and hurricanes thousands of miles away send their energy towards the shore, creating waves that are typically several feet larger than any other beach in the area. The unusual characteristics of the wave are due in part to the man-made jetty, which sends a second wave across the beach. This is amplified by the shallow water which pushes the wave energy up in a sharp peak. Unfortunately, the wave’s power and danger are then multiplied by the fact that they break right on the beach. This shallowness provides very little water to break a fall before hitting the sand below. Because of this, the Newport Wedge should be treated with respect at all times.

For those who want to witness the awesome power of the Wedge it can be found at the very end of the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, CA. Just follow Balboa Boulevard to the end of the peninsula as it turns into Channel Road and go to Jetty View Park. Parking is very limited so it may be easier (and more enjoyable!) to make the trip on a bike or walk down the beach to see this spectacle.

Whether you want to try body surfing or skim boarding, fishing from the rocks or just watch the boats come in and out of the harbor, the Newport Wedge is one .more beautiful place in the magical city that we call home, Newport Beach.

To see what the Newport Wedge is all about, see the video below.

If you want to know more about Newport Beach or would like to buy or sell a home in Newport Beach, please give me a call at 714-319-9751.