Bracklesham Bay is a low-key surf spot located just down the coast from East Wittering. It's a continuation of the beach and shares a lot of similarities, mainly when it comes to the windswell. The beach has a more relaxed vibe and is generally less crowded than the nearby Witterings. Access is straightforward with a small beachfront car park on East Bracklesham Drive, making it convenient for surfers looking for a quick session.
The surf here can range from about thigh high (1 meter) to head high (3 meters) when the conditions are right. It typically works best on low to mid tides, as the higher tides expose shingle banks and groynes, which can be tricky. The spot can handle swells from the southwest, with the best conditions happening when the wind is coming from the north or northeast. The waves can break both left and right over a mixture of sand and pebbles, making it suitable for a range of board types like shortboards, fish, funboards, longboards, SUPs, and bodyboards. While most of the time the waves can be a bit messy, catching a clean groundswell here can lead to surprisingly good rides.
If you're heading out, it's worth noting that the spot picks up slightly more swell compared to areas blocked by the Isle of Wight. The crowd factor is generally lower, making for a chilled local vibe that's friendly and welcoming to beginners and intermediates alike. The best time to surf here is usually from September through February, as the autumn and winter months tend to bring in more consistent swells. Just be mindful of the groynes and rips in the area, especially if you're not familiar with the spot.