Surf: Slow, but popular beachbreak, centre of the scene in the region. Good banks around the pier and a punchy, low tide bank to the eastern end at Penny Hole. Environment: Water quality is not good but vastly improved. Carpark and surf shop by the pier. Facilities in town. Surf: General: Despite the freezing winter weather, Saltburn Beach was one of the first outposts of surfing on England's east coast and has developed into one of the UK's real wave-riding hubs. The beach is a fairly average proposition, with the occasional quality sandbar forming close to the pier. To the south sits a sand and cobblestone break called Penny's Hole with some lovely lefts and rights. At the far southern end, beneath the towering cliff, is Saltburn Point, a high quality slabstone reef that wakes occasionally in the lined up swells, throwing out fast, reeling righthanders. Tides: All tides, better low to mid. Size: Thigh high to overhead. Wind: SW Swell: NE Bottom: Sand, cobbles, rock point. Paddling: Fine generally, hard work when big. Spot Rating: Nice vibe and camaraderie adds to fun of surfing here. Walling waves popular with longboarders. Access: Beachside car park by surf shop. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Popular spot with locals and travelling surfers, crowded when good. Local Vibe: General relaxed vibe with the numerous regulars in the line-up. Environment: Better than it was. Hazards: Rips when big, still some pollution issues. Season: September - November.