St Andrews Surf Forecast and Surf Reports

“The majority that needs to be said has been done in the other comment. (All based on my experiences at these breaks)

St Andrews has technically two breaks East and West sands (Easy being the one almost always referred when talking about surfing) so I’ll split the comment in two parts per break.

East Sands: inconsistent is probably the best description of it, fun unchallenging waves up to head high (haven’t paddled out in anything higher so use the other comment for that).

Closing out on a dropping tide isn’t an exaggeration, it’s like someone hits a switch and you've about half an hour before the wave start properly shutting down or at least don’t peel as much. Although I’ve seen some of the mal/longboard riders sneaking across the face when the tide is dropping but rising mid seems to be the best time.

In terms of safety there is a nasty rip at the end of the beach with rocks a sometimes another current will try to drag towards it so keep an eye on your position. Getting dropped in on can happen (it’s never a sign of aggression that I’ve seen) although after a crash course in surf etiquette at another break I do my best to respect wave priority. Line up is always friendly and relaxed, good atmosphere getting hooted into a wave is not uncommon.

West Sands: Not much to say, always empty, plenty of room and again inconsistent. Vast majority of the time waves are mushy (or it’s flat) but is waist high off-shore conditions can be very fun and some rides are suppressing long. Usually come here after check east and it’s poor or too crowded. A goofy footer will get a nice view of St Andrews during their ride, water tends to be a turquoise colour and cleaner than east. Although it looks a beginner friendly beach the current pulling towards the river Eden can be ridiculously strong so be cautious.

For more advanced surfers there are plenty of other much better options in the area. I have cooked up a storm at one of these places a few times after getting too big for my boots and the shame of it stills haunts me to this day!

Sorry for long windedness but hope it’s helps.”