Overview
St Andrews West is an easterly-facing beach break where the sand bottom throws up mellow, shifty, slow-breaking peaks. Lefts tend to dominate, and the gentle nature makes it a welcoming spot for beginners. It can be fun rather than classic, and it only lines up now and then, so consistency is moderate at best.
When It Works
The break draws swell from the northeast through southeast, with a northeast swell the best match. It's usable from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 1.2 m / 4 ft, but it really needs a bigger swell to wake up, which is why autumn and winter are the seasons to watch.
Wind and Tide
Look for a southwest offshore wind to clean it up. It works through low and mid tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
The lineup here is usually fairly quiet and can feel a little reserved. It suits beginners, and the easy peaks handle everything from shortboards and fish to funboards, longboards, and bodyboards. When the swell picks up, watch for rips and expect the paddle out to become hard work.
Access
There's a car park with free parking plus roadside parking nearby, and you'll find restrooms and camping close at hand.
