The Surf Window

Praa Sands

Cornwall, England

Beach breakIntermediate

On Cornwall's south coast between Penzance and Helston, Praa Sands is a south-facing beach that catches swells the north Cornwall beaches miss, a consistent alternative when Atlantic northwesterlies close out Sennen and Fistral.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–S 1–2m at 12–16s

Wind

NW

Light to N under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Oct–Mar

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Multiple peaks along the beach

Length

50–100m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate surfers
  • •Why: Consistent south-facing beach break, less powerful than north Cornwall but reliable

Hazards

  • •Strong rip currents in bigger swells
  • •Rocks at the east end of the beach
  • •Cliffs in the surrounding area, stay on the beach

Local Tips

  • •When north Cornwall is maxing out, Praa Sands is often still good, a valuable local secret
  • •Prussia Cove to the east is a beautiful sheltered cove good for snorkeling
  • •The village has a surf-friendly pub that welcomes wetsuits

Location

Map showing the location of Praa Sands in Cornwall, England

50.1006, -5.3827