Gwithian
Cornwall, England
Beach breakIntermediate
On Cornwall's north coast near St Ives, Gwithian is a long, dune-backed beach at the south end of St Ives Bay where consistent Atlantic swells deliver quality beach break in a beautiful setting with the dramatic cliffs of the Godrevy headland as backdrop.
Typical Conditions
The Surf Window
Swell Window
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–W 1–2.5m at 12–16s
Wind
SE
Light to E under 15 knots
Tide
Mid tide
LowMidHigh
Season
Sep–Apr
JFMAMJJASOND
The Wave
Type
Beach break
Bottom
Sand
Shape
Multiple peaks along the long beach
Length
60–150m
Skill Level
- •Who it's for: All levels
- •Why: Long beach with varied peaks, sheltered at the south, powerful at the north
Hazards
- •Rip currents especially near the Godrevy headland
- •Rocks at the north end near the point
- •Can be crowded being within reach of St Ives tourists
Local Tips
- •Virginia Woolf's "To the Lighthouse" was inspired by Godrevy Lighthouse visible from the beach
- •The beach has National Trust car parking, arrive early in summer
- •Red River at the south end creates a surf-shaping sandbank, best peaks nearby
Location
50.2209, -5.3858