North Fistral Beach Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
North Fistral Beach Surf Guide
One of Cornwall's premier beachbreaks, situated in the heart of Newquay - the UK's self-styled surf capital. Little Fistral near Pentire Head is a low tide performer breaking in front of the rocks, producing long walling rides and cover-ups. North Fistral is the best known and busiest of the spots, generating powerful, hollow, SW France style rides, with the banks usually holding up to 8ft. Continuing down, South Fistral is often less crowded and the headland offers some shelter in light SW winds. Some decent lefts can be found off rocks here, depending on the banks. Summer crowds, bolstered by surf school peak periods are insane and just not worth the hassle but as the swell picks up towards the Autumn, the crowds thin out, reminding everyone why Fistral was always such a popular proposition. In huge swells the mythical Cribbar breaks out on the headland.
LINEUP TIPS:
Etiquette | Surf Safety Basics
Local Vibe
Competitive.
Crowd Factor
Ridiculous in summer, spread out in winter
Spot Rating
One of the UK's better beachbreaks.
Shoulder Burn
Medium.
Water Quality
Mostly clean.
Hazards
Crowds, tides.
Access
Easy parking.
Bottom
Sand.
Best Season
September-December.
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