The Wedge in Newport Beach, CA: What to Expect (2024)
The Wedge is a world-famous surfing spot located on the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, California.
The massive waves also attract skilled bodyboarders and body surfers from all over the globe.
Why does the Wedge have such big waves?
The Wedge’s waves are due to a man-made jetty that was installed by the Army Corps of Engineers in the 1990s. The waves hit a man-made jetty at a right angle, and the washback collides with a subsequent incoming wave, forming superwaves ranging from a few feet to as much as 30 feet high.
Here’s the entrance to The Wedge:
Here is a view of the jetty from Lookout Point in Corona del Mar.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the Wedge?
The easiest way to get to the Wedge is to type in the address for West Jetty View Park: 2300 Channel Rd, Newport Beach, CA 92661.
When is the best time to surf at the Wedge?
The best times to experience the Wedge are during the summer and fall.
How big are the waves at the Wedge in Newport Beach?
The Wedge can produce waves up to 30 feet high. This past summer, the Wedge produced 15-foot waves.
Do people get hurt at the Wedge?
Yes. There have been serious injuries resulting in paralysis and even death at the Wedge.
Why is the Wedge so dangerous?
The size of the waves combined with the closeness to shore makes the wedge a uniquely dangerous location. When the shore breaks, surfers can drop from a 7-8 foot wave into shallow water, pounding the hard sand.
What is the blackball flag?
Lifeguards raise a yellow flag with a black circle, commonly referred to as a blackball flag, which means boards are prohibited from the water due to dangerous conditions.
