McKenzies Bay is a surf spot that relies heavily on the sand conditions to determine whether it will actually break. This spot is best when there are NorthEast swells, which can create a nice wedge effect off the cliffs. Keep in mind that storm activity can often wash away sand, impacting the surf. The late summer months are typically the best time to hit up McKenzies, especially when the NorthEast winds are blowing.

The surf here usually caters to intermediate surfers. It handles swell sizes starting from about 1ft (0.3 meters) and can pick up wave directions from both the left and right. The best swell direction is NorthEast, but it can also work with East swells. This spot breaks over sand, creating beach waves that can be fun when the conditions align. If you’re planning to surf, low to mid tide is generally preferable, but it can handle high tide too. To get the most out of your session, aim for NorthWest winds.

While the consistency of waves is described as moderate, this can mean that crowds tend to be lighter at times. If you're looking for a spot to kick back and enjoy without a huge crowd, McKenzies might be a decent option, just be aware that it's not suitable for beginners due to the rugged nature of the waves.