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Sandside Bay is a surf spot located near the defunct Dounreay Nuclear Power Station, which sets a unique backdrop for this area. While the waves here may not be as famous as those at Thurso East, Sandside Bay has its moments, especially when the weather takes a turn for the worse elsewhere. It’s not the most popular place, so if you're looking for a more laid-back session, this might be the right choice. The general vibe is friendly, and it’s common to find small crowds, which can be a nice change compared to busier spots.
The waves at Sandside Bay often serve up quality lefts, especially when there are large NW and N swells rolling in. When conditions align just right, you can catch waist-high to overhead (about 1 to 2 meters) waves that break over a flat reef with some sandy patches. The ideal swell sizes here range from about 3 to 6 feet (roughly 1 to 2 meters), and mid to high tides work best for the best results. The take-off is near the old harbor, where you'll find a thick, hollow first section that leads into a long wall for some good ride time. For those with some experience, there’s plenty to enjoy here, whether you’re on a shortboard, fish, longboard, or bodyboard.
If you decide to paddle out, be prepared for a workout when the swells pick up, as it can be a slog to get past the break. The winds from the southwest are preferable, although the spot can handle some westerlies as well. Just keep in mind that this beach is usually empty, partly due to the warnings about radioactive particles, but that doesn’t take away from the experience on days when the waves start pumping during the winter months from December to February.