Surf Forecast  Watergate Bay

Watergate Bay surfspot characteristics

More about Watergate Bay surfspot

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.

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.

Any and all especially when small.

A couple of car parks are located above the beach with easy access.

Works year round, but best September - November.

Crowd Factor: Always busy in the summer and on weekends. Local Vibe: Friendly/largely tolerant.

Probably the best facilities of any beach in Britain: surfshop, school, bistro, bar, hotel, camping and the Extreme Academy. Ample parking above the beach.

Clean.

Beware of tide pushing up to cliffs.