The Surf Window

Dunnet Bay

Highland, Scotland

Beach breakIntermediate

Just west of Thurso, Dunnet Bay is a sweeping 3km beach backed by sand dunes that catches the same north swells as Thurso East but has a more forgiving beach break alternative to its world-famous reef neighbor.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalN (0°)
WindowNNW–ENE (330°–60°)
Size–NW 1.5–3m at 14–18s

Wind

S

Light to SE under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Sep–Apr

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Long beach with multiple peaks

Length

60–150m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate surfers
  • •Why: Good quality beach break without the heavy reef commitment of nearby Thurso East

Hazards

  • •Cold water, 6–10°C requires 5/4mm hooded wetsuit
  • •Strong rip currents in bigger swells
  • •Wind exposure on the open beach

Local Tips

  • •Thurso East is just around the point, check both on the same day
  • •Dunnet Head (Britain's most northerly mainland point) is nearby, worth visiting on flat days
  • •The bay faces directly north to the Arctic, north swells arrive with their full Atlantic power

Location

Map showing the location of Dunnet Bay in Highland, Scotland

58.5833, -3.5000