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Aerial satellite view of Agate Beach surf break in Humboldt, California, United States
Humboldt, California, United States

Agate Beach

41.144, -124.144
Edited by Tom Jackson
Verified May 2026
Editor-reviewedCross-checked against WannaSurf
At a glance
  • Agate Beach is a left over point, long walling left point break over rock.
  • Intermediate to advanced ability, working 3-12 ft.
  • Peak September to March, water 10-15°C.
Left · PointIntermediate → Advanced3–12 ftJan – Dec

A point break on Oregon's central coast that can throw up surprisingly long rides when the swell aligns, Agate Beach sits just north of Newport near Yaquina Head. It needs a solid NW to W swell in the 3-to-8ft range to start firing, with low to mid tide generally producing the cleanest shape. SE winds groom the face well. The wave runs right to left along the rocks and on good days can wall up for several hundred meters. Intermediate surfers will find it manageable on mid-size days, but the rock-heavy environment and occasional heavy surf demand honest self-assessment. Bottom: point over reef and rock. Season: fall through winter. Consistency: moderate to low. The lineup is rarely crowded on weekdays, but respect the local crew and do not drop in on anyone near the rocks.

Wave fit

Skill suited
Intermediate → Advanced
BegIntAdv
Best months
Jan – Dec
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Character
Long walling left point break over rock.

Conditions

When it works
Optimum tide
Low and mid tide
Trip planning

Quick facts

Water temp
10° to 15°C
Wetsuit
4/3 + booties
What to bring
  • Shortboard 6ft 2in to 6ft 6in for punchy days
  • Step-up 6ft 8in to 7ft for overhead-plus swells
  • Mid-length for smaller, mushier days
Lineup
Easy-going
Where it sits

Location

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About this break

What it's actually like

Crowd & Localism

Weekdays tend to see very few surfers out. Weekend crowds remain light compared to spots further south. Local knowledge matters here, and one community reports contributor flagged the wave as unforgiving for inexperienced surfers near the rocks. Go with humility, stay aware of positioning near the point, and do not snake sets.

Access & Facilities

Parking is available near the beach and along nearby streets. Walk down to the north side of the beach toward the rocks. Ossie's Surf Shop in Newport can provide current conditions, rental gear, and local advice. There is some naming confusion in community reports between Agate Beach and so-called North Agate. They refer to the same break. The headland on the far north side is a separate, seldom-surfable zone.

Nearby Alternatives

If Agate is shutting down or too heavy, check the beach peaks closer to Newport for softer options on smaller swells. Further south, spots around Lincoln City offer more consistent beginner-friendly setups when the swell is pumping through.

10-day swell, wind and tide

Agate Beach surf forecast

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Forecast by Windy.app

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Frequently asked

What you need to know before paddling out at Agate Beach

What skill level is Agate Beach suited for?
Agate Beach is a point bottom, long walling left point break over rock, break suited for intermediate through advanced surfers.
What size does Agate Beach work best at?
Working size is 3 to 12 ft. Below 3 ft the swell goes flat. Above 12 ft it tends to close out.
When is the best season to surf Agate Beach?
Agate Beach fires from September through March. Outside that window the swell window narrows and the lineup goes quiet.
What swell direction does Agate Beach need?
Agate Beach switches on with swells out of the W to NNW (270 to 330 degrees).
What type of wave is Agate Beach?
Agate Beach is a left-breaking wave over point. Long walling left point break over rock.
How crowded is Agate Beach?
Vibe is easy-going. Smile, share waves, and you will be welcomed.

Sources

  • WannaSurf
Agate Beach
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