The Surf Window

Pease Bay

Scottish Borders, Scotland

Beach breakIntermediate

On Scotland's East Lothian coast south of Edinburgh, Pease Bay is the most accessible quality surf spot for Scotland's capital city, a sheltered cove that wraps northeast swells into a consistent beach break with a caravan park right above the waves.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalN (0°)
WindowNNW–ENE (330°–60°)
Size–E 1–2.5m at 10–14s

Wind

SW

Light to W under 15 knots

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

Sep–Apr

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand and pebble

Shape

Beach peaks, lefts and rights

Length

40–80m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate surfers
  • •Why: Consistent North Sea beach break with cold water requiring appropriate gear

Hazards

  • •Cold water, 7–12°C
  • •The cove restricts the wave face in bigger swells, can close out
  • •Limited parking in high season

Local Tips

  • •Edinburgh is 45 minutes north, combine with city culture on the same trip
  • •The caravan park above the beach has shower facilities, invaluable in cold conditions
  • •The village of Cockburnspath nearby has a pub worth visiting

Location

Map showing the location of Pease Bay in Scottish Borders, Scotland

55.9278, -2.4694