The Surf Window

Wick Beach

Highland, Scotland

Beach breakIntermediate

In the far northeast of Scotland, Wick sits in Caithness where the Highland plateau meets the North Sea, a dramatic and windswept coastline with consistent surf, occasional quality, and the feeling of being truly at the edge of the world.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalN (0°)
WindowNNW–ENE (330°–60°)
Size–N 1.5–3m at 12–16s

Wind

SW

Light to W under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Oct–Mar

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach and reef break

Bottom

Sand and rock

Shape

Various peaks, best near the river mouth

Length

50–100m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate to advanced
  • •Why: Cold, raw North Sea conditions demand experience and resilience

Hazards

  • •Extremely cold water, 5–9°C
  • •The Caithness coast has some of Britain's most exposed and dangerous cliffs
  • •Very remote, Wick is a long drive from any major city

Local Tips

  • •Wick is the southernmost jumping-off point for the NC500 route, Scotland's ultimate road trip
  • •The Old Pulteney Distillery in town produces exceptional whisky, warm up properly after
  • •The flow country peatlands nearby are a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Location

Map showing the location of Wick Beach in Highland, Scotland

58.4369, -3.1000