Tom,
I live in southern NH. We have the same surfers that hang out on the north end of Hampton beach waiting for the 2-3’ surf break.
Actually, late September, early October IF you get a warm temperature date is the best time to go in the water up here. I love going to Plum Island in Newbury/Newburyport.
That Ipswich Bay area is the best beach area on the north shore. Crane Beach is just south of there. Also, on the north side of Cape Ann where the Annisquam tidal river dumps into the ocean is a Gloucester town beach that you can wade out into the bay about 1/4 mile at low tide. It never gets more than 3’ deep until you get to the main channel.
Of course, you MUST wait until the GREEN HEADS disappear in mid August. Prior to that, they will tear you up
I am south of Boston and notice the surfers here have to dodge ledge and boulders the size of automobile when they surf locally.
With the present noreaster blowing the surf is high and crashing ashore, it is forcast to be worse tomorrow. -Tom