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How far from piers and jetties does NOAA say to stay when swimming?

At least 100 feet, because permanent rips often form there.

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  1. At least 10 feet
  2. At least 1 mile
  3. At least 100 feet ✔

Why: Water flowing along the beach gets turned out to sea when it hits a pier or jetty. NOAA says to stay at least 100 feet (30 meters) away because permanent rip currents often sit alongside them.

Huh, didn't know that: NOAA's Surf Zone Forecasts rate rip current risk as low, moderate or high.

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References

Answer: At least 100 feet. Water flowing along the beach gets turned out to sea when it hits a pier or jetty. NOAA says to stay at least 100 feet (30 meters) away because permanent rip currents often sit alongside them.

  1. NOAA JetStream: Rip Current Safety www.noaa.gov/jetstream/ocean/rip-currents/rip-current-safety
    Stay at least 100 feet (30 meters) away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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