Longbeach Drive is a surf spot located near Wanganui. To get there, you’ll need to take a series of turns starting from Carlton Ave on State Highway 3. After winding through several streets, you’ll end up at Longbeach Drive, which takes you to the end of the road where you can access the beach. It's a laid-back, local spot that’s worth checking out if you're looking for something chill.
The surf at Longbeach Drive works best with a southwest swell, but it can handle swells coming from the south and west as well. It breaks over sand, making it a good option for beginners. You can expect some left and right waves that can get up to about 1 foot (0.3 meters). It's generally better to hit this spot during high tide when the conditions are optimal. If you’re planning a session, keep in mind that a northeast wind direction is preferable for cleaner waves.
This is a beginner-friendly surf spot, so if you're just starting out, Longbeach Drive might be a good place to practice. The sand bottom helps with wipeouts, and the mellow waves make it less intimidating for newer surfers. Just be aware that it might not always have the most exciting surf, but it's a great place to develop your skills.