Surf: Popular, fun beachbreak at the centre of the Newcastle scene. Works through the tide but best on higher tides. Environment: Site of the British Nationals and home beach to some of the UK's top pro's. Pay and display roadside parking above the beach. Surfshop and cafe on the beach. Surf: General: This deceptively long stretch of beach offers something for everyone. Popular with beginners and surf schools, as well as those chasing the heavier peaks out back. Pretty consistent and produces good banks that work through the tides. This beach has produced a number of world class and pro surfers. Tides: Breaks through the tides. Size: Thigh high to overhead. Wind: SW Swell: NE Bottom: Sand Paddling: Not too bad unless big. Spot Rating: Can be excellent in clean, medium sized swells. Access: Parking along sea front on Grand Parade and a car park in the middle of the bay. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Can get crowded, especially during weekends. Local Vibe: Pretty relaxed vibe, lots of local surfers started here so pretty cordial. Environment: OK, can be nasty after heavy rains due to proximity to the River Tyne. Hazards: Crowds. Season: Works year round, but best September - November.