The Surf Window

Aberystwyth

Ceredigion, Wales

Beach breakBeginner

The university town of Aberystwyth sits on the exposed Cardigan Bay coast where it catches northwesterly and southwesterly swells, an urban beach break popular with students and the Welsh surf community in the heart of Mid Wales.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–NW 1–2.5m at 10–14s

Wind

E

Light under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Oct–Mar

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand and shingle

Shape

Beach peaks on the main beach and Clarach Bay to the north

Length

40–80m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate surfers
  • •Why: Shingle beach creates some power, not as gentle as more sheltered breaks

Hazards

  • •Strong rip currents near the harbour breakwater
  • •Shingle beach, falls are harder than sand
  • •Very windy, the town is notorious for its harsh weather

Local Tips

  • •Clarach Bay north of town is the preferred surf spot for locals, more consistent shape
  • •Aberystwyth University gives the town a great café culture and nightlife for a small Welsh city
  • •The cliff railway (funicular) to Constitution Hill is a fun tourist experience on flat days

Location

Map showing the location of Aberystwyth in Ceredigion, Wales

52.4143, -4.0817