The WEDGE!

Since my home is southern California,  I  felt the need to share my favorite surfing strange spot (observation only for me).   The WEDGE in Newport Beach.  For all of my Cali friends, if you haven't been there.. GO!  Skim boarding, surfing, body bodysurfing and body boarding are all enjoyed at the extreme end of the Balboa Peninsula (not so much swimming).   During the right type of south swell, waves can reach up to 30 feet!!! The waves are a by-product of improvements made in the 1930s to the rock jetty on the west side.  When conditions are right, as wave approaches the shore, it reflects off the jetty creating a second wave.  The waves then meet up creating one massive wave. The large waves can be produced in normal conditions as well :).  The beach is quite steep with a strong backwash.  This also creates conditions for large waves.  Watch the weather and look for Southern Hemispheric storms or large tropical depressions when planning your visit.  This often occurs in the summer and falls months.  I've visited the Wedge many times and have yet to be disappointed (without checking the surf reports).   It's almost unbelievable to see such enormous waves at the end of the peaceful Balboa Peninsula.