Highcliffe surf guide

Highcliffe is a surf spot that offers a mix of peaks, depending on the swell and tide. It's not the most consistent spot around, but with a solid southwesterly swell, it can turn into a fun place to catch some waves. The break features a series of groynes that help to catch the southern swell, especially when the conditions align just right. You can find the best peaks in front of the car park and just to the east, particularly during low tide. Access is pretty straightforward with a cliff-top car park that overlooks the breaks.

When it comes to the surf, Highcliffe handles swell sizes from about 2ft to 4ft (roughly 0.6m to 1.2m). The waves come in as both right and left, breaking over sand, with some shingle mixed in at high tide. The spot tends to work at all tide levels, but you'll generally find the best surfing when it’s low to mid tide. The wind from the north is preferred, and while paddling out is easy when the swell is smaller, it can get a bit tricky with heavier conditions due to rips. This spot can suit everyone from beginners to intermediates, and you can ride shortboards, fish, longboards, and even bodyboards here.

The crowd situation is manageable most of the time, but it can get busy, especially during the peak winter season from December to February. The local vibe is generally chilled, so you should feel comfortable hanging out and surfing with others. Just be cautious of the rocky groynes and the potential for heavy, rippy conditions on bigger days.