Mayport Poles Surf Report: Live Conditions & Forecast

Located at the north end of Hanna Park and just south of the Mayport Naval Station, the Poles has been one of Jacksonville’s most reliable and popular surf breaks for decades. It takes its name from the row of pilings near the St. Johns River inlet that mark the boundary of the naval station. It’s an exposed beach/pier break that holds surfable waves year-round and is usually best around low tide.

Best Swell Direction: North-northeast swells, as well as solid hurricane swells.

Best Winds: Southwest winds create the ideal offshore conditions.

Best Size: Works well anywhere from waist-high to double overhead.

Crowds: This is one of the busiest spots in the area and it draws a strong local following, so expect company, especially on weekends and whenever there’s a good swell. Peaks can get competitive, so mind the lineup etiquette. Skill level tends to run mid-level to expert.

Be aware of the following:

Park Access & Hours: The Poles sits inside Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, a gated City of Jacksonville park, so beach access is tied to the park’s operating hours and entrance fee (details below). Do not paddle north past the poles toward the naval station and the St. Johns River jetties. The inlet carries strong currents and the area near the station is restricted.

Wildlife: It’s Northeast Florida ocean, so sharks are present; stay aware, particularly near the inlet and around bait schools. Note that the park’s 60-acre freshwater lake is home to alligators if you explore the park.

Facilities: Unlike more remote breaks, Hanna Park is a fully developed park. The beach is reached by boardwalks from several parking areas it’s worth checking a few different boardwalk accesses to find the best sandbars before walking down with your board. Restrooms, running water, outdoor showers, picnic areas, a campground, and over 20 miles of trails are all on site.

Operating Hours (Subject to change): The park runs on seasonal hours — roughly 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM in the winter (Standard Time) months and 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM during Daylight Saving Time. Early-bird beach access from 6:00–8:00 AM is available but requires an advance ticket purchase, and last entry is 30 minutes before closing. Confirm current hours at https://www.jacksonville.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/jaxparks/oceanfront-parks/kathryn-abbey-hanna-park

Entrance Fees: As of now, entry is about $5 per vehicle (up to six occupants), $3 for pedestrians and cyclists, with annual passes available and a 50% discount for active-duty military and veterans with valid ID. Cash, credit, and debit cards are all accepted at the entrance. Check current fees at the park page above.