As the tide rises the location of the break and its character alter. As the tide rises a right hander will start to work off the end of the breakwater and at three-quarters to high tide, short rides can be had in front of the swimming pool. Widemouth Bay - the principal surf break in the area, attracting surfers of all ages and abilities on all kinds of craft. An ideal beach for learners although it can be hard getting outside the broken surf West facing, it works well at all stages of the tide but towards the high tide waves get faster and more hollow. Dawn patrols are particularly rewarding here, often giving glassy, uncrowded conditions.
Boards are available for hire on the beach and tuition is available at two nearby adventure centres.
A good left breaks off the rocks on the southern side of the bay. Works on all tides. Hayle Beach - a superb beach for beginners because the ride is long and works throughout the tide. Big winter swells can push right into the mouth of the Camel and can provide one of the only places on the North Coast that has any shelter from north westerly winds. Harlyn Bay - well worth a look when a big swell runs in south or south westerly winds.