Surf: General: With its distinct red sand and sheltered aspect, the bay here has always been more famed as a tourist draw than a surf spot. However there can be waves here in just the right conditions - needs a huge southwesterly groundswell or easterly windswell. The flat beach has its best banks near to the pier. Tides: Low to mid. Size: Thigh to head high. Wind: W Swell: SW groundswell or E windswell. Bottom: Sand. Paddling: Doesn't get big very often, but will be lots of duck dives if it does. Spot Rating: Rarely breaks, mostly rolling waves or fat, wedgy walls on a good swell. Access: Beachfront parking all along the Esplanade. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Quiet. Local Vibe: Relaxed. Environment: OK - can be sewage after heavy rains. Hazards: Rips if big. Season: Big swells or storms December - February.