The Cove is a popular surf spot known for its gentle waves and easy access, making it a go-to for surfers looking for a relaxed session. It generally works best on low to mid tide, with a preferred swell direction coming from the SouthEast to SouthWest. This spot can handle swell sizes ranging from about 1 meter (3ft) to 3.5 meters (12ft), and when the conditions line up, it offers a fun surf experience, especially for beginners and intermediates.
When it comes to surfing at The Cove, the waves can provide a softer A-frame shape that tends to wall up on the inside, given the right combination of swell and tide. The bottom is a mix of sand and rock, so you'll need to keep an eye out for that. It's important to note that the winds from the NW, W, and SW are ideal here. The tides work best at low to mid levels, but paddle power may be required if the surf is on the bigger side. The spot can get crowded, especially when the waves are firing, so be ready to share the lineup.
Although The Cove offers a friendly environment for surfing, be aware that it can have an unfriendly local vibe towards newcomers. The colder winter temperatures can be a bit of a shock, so it's worth bringing a good wetsuit if you plan to surf during the autumn or winter months. Overall, while the conditions can be good at The Cove, they are very much storm dependent, especially with tropical cyclones in late summer and fall and frontal activity stretching into spring.