Brighton - Dunedin is a surf spot located west of Blackhead’s, featuring a mix of beachbreaks and point breaks. It is known for its lines of south swell that wrap around a large rock island. Though the waves can be fun, this spot can be a bit tricky to navigate at times, especially when it’s on the bigger side. The beach offers a variety of setups, making it a place where you can find some decent surf.
The surf here generally handles swell sizes starting from around 2 feet (0.6 meters) and can go up from there. The optimal swell direction is south, although it can also pick up swells from the east and south. Waves typically break over uneven reef and sand, with some good right point waves to ride. When the conditions come together, you might find some nice barrels, but you'll need to be mindful of your positioning and the rocky channels during your paddle-out. Mid-tide works best here, and it’s recommended for intermediate surfers who have some experience with varying surf conditions.
The Brighton Surf Club is a good local resource if you're looking to get familiar with the area. They can share insights on the best spots to check out in the surrounding unchartered waters of The Catlins area. It's a supportive community that can help you make the most of your time in the water.