Tarcoola is a beach spot that attracts surfers looking for a casual session. The main area people ride is the Back Beach, especially when the reefs aren’t cooperating. While it might not always deliver the best waves, it's a go-to for locals when conditions are right. The beach can get crowded, so be prepared to share the space with surfers of all levels and styles.
The surf here is mostly a beach break, which means it tends to be a bit sloppy with close-outs being pretty standard. However, don’t be surprised if you catch some fun, fast walls or a sucky shorebreak further down the stretch every now and then. The best swell direction is from the SouthWest, with good waves breaking on swells from the South and West. It works well with swell sizes starting from 1ft (0.3m) and can handle different wave types, offering lefts and rights. The preferable wind direction is NorthEast, and the tide doesn’t really mess with your session whether it’s low, mid, or high.
Even though Tarcoola may not be the most high-quality surf spot, it's beginner-friendly, so it’s a great place for those looking to get some practice in. Adjust your expectations, but you might just score some decent waves if you're patient. Just keep in mind that good days can be rare, and typically you'll see a mix of surfers out there, so expect some company in the water.