The Surf Window

Nauset Beach

Massachusetts, USA

Beach breakIntermediate

On Cape Cod's outer elbow, Nauset Beach is one of New England's most beautiful and exposed Atlantic beaches, where northeast groundswells arrive with genuine power and the landscape of salt marsh and dune grass creates a uniquely American scene.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalE (90°)
WindowNNE–SSE (30°–150°)
Size–SE 1.5–2.5m at 12–16s

Wind

W

Light to SW under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Sep–Nov

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Multiple peaks along the long beach

Length

60–120m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate surfers
  • •Why: Powerful northeast swells and rip currents require solid ability

Hazards

  • •Great white sharks, Nauset is within the Cape Cod white shark zone
  • •Strong rip currents at the gut (tidal channel)
  • •The gut creates a dangerous current channel

Local Tips

  • •The gut (cut between Nauset and North Beach) can be dangerous, stay away from it
  • •The drive down the outer Cape via Route 6 is one of New England's great road trips
  • •Orleans town center has excellent seafood and clam chowder nearby

Location

Map showing the location of Nauset Beach in Massachusetts, USA

41.8478, -69.9522