// Free Gear Checklist
Our free Beginner's Surf Guide has the exact gear checklist — what to buy first, what to skip, and how to pick a board and wetsuit that won't hold you back. Free, instant.
No spam · Instant delivery · Unsubscribe anytime
// 3 Surf shops listed
Boards, wetsuits, wax and ding repair — with ratings, phone numbers and directions for each.
Seasonal averages for New York — not a live surf report for this beach. New York surf seasons in full
// The Lineup
Ranked by rating confidence — review volume counts, not just the score.
70 W Park Ave
Long Beach delivers authentic East Coast surf culture just 40 minutes from Manhattan, with four dedicated surf shops serving a tight-knit community of year-round wave riders. These shops stock cold-water essentials like quality wetsuits, offer board repairs that understand the wear from Atlantic swells, and provide honest local beta on sandbar shifts and optimal tide windows. The 2.2-mile boardwalk connects surf breaks from National Boulevard to New York Avenue, making it easy to check conditions and duck into shops for wax, leash replacements, or post-session gear. Shop owners here know the difference between summer south swells and winter nor'easters, guiding visitors to the right equipment and breaks for current conditions. Beyond surfing, Long Beach offers walkable beach town amenities—surf-friendly cafes, bike rentals, and a laid-back vibe that feels worlds away from the city while remaining easily accessible by LIRR.
Long Beach surfing peaks during the fall and spring when Nor'easters generate reliable groundswell. Shops generally operate extended hours from Memorial Day through Labor Day. It is advisable to call ahead for specific rental availability or lessons, especially if visiting outside the peak summer season, as some smaller operations may reduce staff. Before going in, check the local beach forecast and talk to the lifeguard on duty (National Weather Service advice).
The four documented surf shops in Long Beach primarily focus on rentals, gear sales, and introductory lessons. Expect availability of standard shortboards, funboards, and foam boards for rent, often bundled with wetsuits depending on the season. Most locations offer minor ding repair services, typically for quick fixes, though major structural repairs may require outsourcing. Custom shaping is less common but occasionally available through specific local shapers affiliated with the shops. Look for local-brand apparel discounts.
Yes, surfing within the designated city limits of Long Beach typically requires a valid beach access permit, especially during the summer season. Shops often sell day passes or can direct you to the municipal office where annual permits are issued. Always verify current municipal rules before entering the water.
Wetsuit rentals are standard practice, but availability shifts seasonally. During the colder months (November through April), high-quality 4/3mm suits are necessary and may require advance booking. In warmer months, shops provide thinner spring suits or shorties as needed for comfort.
The National Weather Service's advice applies here: only swim at a beach with lifeguards, check the local beach forecast and talk to the lifeguard before going in, and remember that rip currents often form on calm, sunny days. If one catches you, don't fight it: relax and float, wave and yell for help, or swim parallel to the beach until you're out of the pull.
