Epic Waves Unleashed at The Wedge in Newport Beach

Recent swells highlight the unique and often perilous conditions at this man-made surf break

Mar. 16, 2026 at 2:19pm

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The Wedge in Newport Beach, California, is a unique surf break created by the interaction of swells with the Newport Harbor jetties. Recent powerful swells have once again demonstrated the unpredictable power of this engineered wave environment, which has become a testament to both human intervention and the raw force of the ocean.

Why it matters

The story of the Wedge points to a broader trend in surfing - the growing influence of engineered coastlines and wave environments on the future of the sport. As coastal development continues to alter natural wave patterns, understanding the impacts on surf breaks and safety will become increasingly important.

The details

The Wedge's origins trace back to 1916, when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers constructed a jetty to protect Newport Harbor. The jetty was extended in 1936, inadvertently creating the conditions for the now-famous wave. The Wedge isn't alone - the recent swell also brought to life a rare wave inside Newport Harbor and activity at Corona Del Mar State Beach, demonstrating that even seemingly dormant spots can awaken with the right conditions.

  • The Wedge was created after the extension of the Newport Harbor jetties in 1936.
  • Recent swells, like the one that detonated in early March 2026, have once again highlighted the unique and often perilous conditions at The Wedge.

The players

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

The government agency that constructed the jetty that led to the creation of The Wedge.

The Wedge Crew

A unique community of bodysurfers who have been central to the wave's identity, emphasizing the importance of local knowledge and respect for the environment.

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What they’re saying

“Duke Kahanamoku, a legendary surfer, once demonstrated his skills at Corona Del Mar before the construction of the jetties altered the wave dynamics.”

— Duke Kahanamoku

What’s next

As coastal populations grow and the impacts of climate change become more pronounced, the need for effective coastal management strategies will become even more critical. Understanding how human interventions affect wave dynamics is essential for both protecting coastal communities and preserving the integrity of surf breaks.

The takeaway

The increasing prevalence of man-made waves has significant implications for surfing culture, highlighting the need for increased awareness and safety measures at these altered breaks. While wave pools are democratizing the sport, the long-term impacts on the traditional surfing landscape remain to be seen.