Hickory Bay
This is an amazing break when it's on and is a wave magnet for the Christchurch area. Facing due east and being on the end of the peninsula, it captures swell from the south right around to the northeast. It features a sandy bottom and usually has great banks providing peaks along the beach and a good left off the far left cliff face.
Optimal Swell Direction:
SE
Optimal Wind Direction:
NW
Tide:
All
Wave Type:
Beach break
Wave Size Min:
1.0ft
Wave Size Max:
12.0ft
Wave Shape:
Fast
Powerful
Barrels
Beach Type:
Sand
Skill Level:
Advanced
Wildlife:
Seals
Danger:
Seals.
Directions
From Christchurch, head toward Akaroa on State Highway 75. When you reach the Takamatua Road hill, turn left and head up Long Bay Road to the Summit Road. When you reach that intersection, you need to take the second left onto the gravel road called Hickory Bay Road. Take it easy down here, it's shingle, narrow, windy and bumpy. When you get to the bottom, there is a carpark. Follow the signs through the farm track. Do not go through the farmer's driveway! It is a 10-15min walk to the bottom. Be sure to take out whatever you take in. No camping, fires or toilet, so be prepared.
Nearest Town:
Akaroa
Nearest City:
Christchurch
Travel Time from City:
90mins
Road in:
Gravel
Walk in:
Yes
Parking at beach:
No
