Warriewood is a surf spot located below tall cliffs and is known for being well-sheltered from the strong south winds that can hit Sydney. This means that while other open beaches might get blown out, Warriewood can still hold decent waves, making it a popular choice among locals and surfers looking for a ride. However, this popularity can lead to crowded conditions, especially at the righthand point.
The surf at Warriewood works best with small to moderate swells coming from the east, southeast, or south. It handles swell sizes starting from 1 foot (about 0.3 meters) and can be decent on low to mid tides. You can expect beach breaks as well as some wave action over an uneven reef, which contributes to the variety of waves available. There’s often a good left that breaks into the channel, making it a fun choice for intermediate surfers. The best wind for this spot is from the southwest, which helps clean up the waves and makes them more rideable.
When you're heading out, keep in mind that the steep walk up and down to the beach can be a bit of a workout, but it doesn't usually deter surfers from making the trip. If you’re looking for a spot that can still deliver some fun waves when other beaches are struggling, Warriewood is definitely worth checking out.