Surf: Watergate Bay stretches for 2.5km, entertaining fun peaks in all swells and through the tides. Popular with all standards including kitesurfers on W winds. Gets heavier and hollower at size when the rips ramp up. Environment: Probably the best facilities of any beach in Britain: surfshop, school, bistro, bar, hotel, camping and the Extreme Academy. Ample parking above the beach. Surf: General: A consistent beachbreak to the north of Newquay, this is a popular contest venue and, dependent on the banks, a two-mile stretch of sand that can churn out punchy lefts and rights along its length. This spot was traditionally seen as a less crowded alternative to Fistral with a less competitive vibe, but it has become increasingly busy in recent years. While the middle of the beach gets packed due to its proximity to the access, a short walk north or south usually yields a quieter peak. Works through the tides but be aware of getting cut off at high when the beach shrinks away. Tides: Works on all tides but on a high the beach can disappear. Size: Thigh high to overhead. Wind: SE, E Swell: NW, W Bottom: Sand. Paddling: Can be hard work in bigger swells. Spot Rating: Shifting banks that can produce short, punchy rides or long walls. There's plenty of room to spread out as most tend to stick to the closest peaks. Access: A couple of car parks are located above the beach with easy access. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Always busy in the summer and on weekends. Local Vibe: Friendly/largely tolerant. Environment: Clean. Hazards: Beware of tide pushing up to cliffs. Season: Works year round, but best September - November.