Torrisdale Surf Guide

Surf spot guide

Ideal Surf Conditions

Swell Direction

NW

Wind

S

Surf Height

Waist high to overhead.

Tide

Works through the tides, except high.

Torrisdale Surf Guide

One of Sutherland's most flexible and reliable spots, this quality rivermouth has a consistent bank by the Strathnaver at the eastern most edge of the bay. On warm Autumn and chilly Winter days, long, quality rights reel along the sandbar, while shorter lefts peel into the rivermouth. A series of peaks can be found along the full length of the dune-backed bay, as well as a more sheltered rivermouth at the western end for when huge swells kick in. Its distance from Thurso makes this a quieter option. Access by paddling across the river.

Ability Level

Intermediate - Advanced

BegIntAdv

Waves suitable for all when small, but remoteness and rips mean best left to experienced.

Local Vibe

Welcoming

WelcomingIntimidating

Friendly.

Crowd Factor

Mellow

MellowHeavy

Quiet.

Spot Rating

Fun

PoorPerfect

Rivermouth can be excellent, long walls with hollow sections.

Shoulder Burn

Medium

LightExhausting

Rips by the river and on beach when bigger.

Water Quality

Clean

CleanDirty

Clean.

Hazards

Rips; usually bigger than it looks, access.

Bring Your

Shortboard, Fish, Funboard, Longboard, Bodyboard

Access

Either via Bettyhill and paddle across river or hike in from Torrisdale end.

Bottom

Big sandy beach with classic rivermouth set-up.

Best Season

September - February.

Do you have local knowledge about Torrisdale?

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