Porthtowan Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
W
Wind
SE, E
Surf Height
Thigh high to overhead.
Tide
Works through the tides.
Porthtowan Surf Guide
This sandy beach is a heavy, hollow proposition at low, but works through the tides. Low tide reveals the consistent Lushingtons to the south - popular with bodyboards and barrel-hound groms. At high tide the waves are usually smaller, and the cliffs offer some protection from light southerly or southwesterly winds. Sandbars are shifty but often there's a nice right peeling from the north side of the bay. Easy access and beachfront parking means its always crowded and there's a long established local crew here. Regular board breaking sessions and strong rips means its not recommended for the inexperienced. The bay has a tendency to close out when the swell is over 6-foot.
Ability Level
Intermediate
Not a spot for beginners when over 2 ft as strong rips and heavy waves are a hazard here.
Local Vibe
Doable
Feisty, long established and competitive, but tolerant when surfed with humility and respect.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Large, year round local crew, but gets crazy busy in the summer.
Spot Rating
Fun
Classic Cornish beachie working through the tides. 'Lushies' has fast, hollow, lefts popular with bodyboarders. The main beach can have good long walls, fast tubes, or can be a giant close-out.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
Long paddles when swell picks up.
Water Quality
Fair
Has had sewage discharge problems in heavy rain.
Hazards
Rips when big and sewage after heavy rains.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Funboard, Longboard, Fish, Bodyboard
Access
Free winter parking close to beach, which becomes pay parking after Easter.
Bottom
Sand, pebbles and stones at high.
Best Season
September - November.
Do you have local knowledge about Porthtowan?
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