St Clair surf guide

St Clair is a popular surf spot located in Dunedin, New Zealand. It acts as the main hub for local surfers and can often deliver decent beachbreak waves. It works best during a big south swell, especially near the long right point close to the saltwater hot pools. The beach can get pretty busy, but there are plenty of other nearby spots like Tomahawk, Lawyers Head, and St Kilda to catch some waves if you need a break from the crowd.

The optimal swell direction here is south, but it also picks up swell from the southeast and southwest. It can handle swell sizes starting from about 2ft (0.6 meters) and features both left and right waves over sand. This makes it a decent choice for beginners, as the waves are generally manageable. St Clair works at low, mid, and high tide, but the best conditions usually happen with a north wind kick, helping create some nice peaks.

While you're there, it’s worth noting that St Clair can often have varying conditions, so checking the surf report before heading out is a good idea. As a local gem, it provides a friendly atmosphere for surfers of all levels looking to enjoy the waves. Just remember to keep an eye on the surf and know when to share the line-up!