Coldingham Bay surf guide

Coldingham Bay is a small, crescent-shaped sandy bay located in Scotland. It’s fronted by beach huts and has a nice vibe, but it's not the most consistent surf spot out there. When the conditions line up, it's a fun place to catch some waves, especially on lower tides. It's important to note that it's usually smaller than nearby Pease Bay because of the shelter from St Abb's Head. Parking is available just a short walk from the beach, but the car park is pay and can get busy, especially on weekends with day trippers flocking to the area.

The surf here generally works best with a northeast swell (2ft to 6ft or about 0.6 to 1.8 meters). You can expect some peaky beach breaks that offer both lefts and rights. The waves can become punchy and hollow, making it ideal for intermediate surfers. When the swell is decent, particularly with a southwest wind, you might find some fun peaks. Generally, the best time to surf is during mid to high tides, but it can be surfed at all tides.

The bottom is mostly sandy with a couple of rock outcrops, which means there are some hazards to be aware of. Also, during larger swells, rips can form, so it's good to be cautious if the surf is bigger. The local vibe is pretty chilled overall, and even when it gets busy, it tends to be manageable. Autumn and winter are the best seasons to visit for those seeking decent waves.