The Surf Window

Freshwater East

Pembrokeshire, Wales

Beach breakBeginner

On Pembrokeshire's south coast, Freshwater East is a sheltered cove that catches the wrap of southwest swells in a peaceful bay below the clifftop village, smaller and more protected than Freshwater West but consistently surfable.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–S 1–2m at 10–12s

Wind

N

Light to NW under 15 knots

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

Oct–Mar

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Peaks in the sheltered bay

Length

40–70m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Beginner to intermediate
  • •Why: Protected bay reduces power, excellent learning environment

Hazards

  • •Rocks on the bay edges
  • •Limited car parking, fills quickly on good days
  • •Cold water in autumn and winter

Local Tips

  • •Much less crowded than Freshwater West, good alternative when bigger beaches are heaving
  • •The village above the bay has beautiful stone cottages and a good community feel
  • •The coast path between Freshwater East and Barafundle Bay (one of Britain's most beautiful beaches) is a stunning walk

Location

Map showing the location of Freshwater East in Pembrokeshire, Wales

51.6583, -4.9000