Sand Bank surf guide

This place, also known as "Sand Bank," is called Cattle Wash by the older set. It’s a sandbank located just to the north of Soup Bowl, beyond the rocky outcrop by the Edgewater Hotel. The spot features a stretch of open beachbreak that can be hit or miss, depending on the conditions. While it's labeled as suitable for beginners, it's often a bit too messy with rips and currents. It’s more favorable for experienced surfers who can handle the dumpy close-outs and onshore conditions.

The surf here can be pretty decent when everything lines up right. It handles swell sizes from 3 to 6 feet (about 1 to 2 meters) and works best with a north swell. You’ll find both left and right waves, depending on how the sand is set up. The ideal tide is low to medium, and the best wind direction is southwest. When the waves are on, you might catch some A-frame peaks or right-hand bowls that can remind you of more famous waves down the coast, though don't expect consistency all the time.

The access involves a walk of about 1 km north from Soup Bowl, so be prepared for that. The area typically has low crowds, making it a chill spot if you’re looking to escape the busier breaks. Just keep an eye out for urchins when paddling out. Best season for surfing here is late summer and fall for tropical cyclone swells, but you can also find some action through late fall and winter. Grab your shortboard, and you might just find some fun waves at Sand Bank.