36th is a great place for kids and average surfers in the summer. On big, closeout south swells, you can find fun peaks/left walls in that area. However, the closer you get to the pier the smaller the waves will be. The waves are more forgiving and mellower than the upper jetties. 36th can be fun with the winter's west swells too. Plus there's less crowd and it's less competitive than 28th Street and Blackies. (Hint: It's worth a check on big closeout south swells when the south wind is blowing.)
Source: 36th St Newport Surf Guide