Scarborough

Scarborough is a very popular beach in Christchurch and home to some of the best longboard surf in the area. Scarborough is a sandy beach break with both right and left-handers on offer on various peaks along the beach. The best spot is often near the eastern end of the beach of the breakwater. Scarborough offers good clean waves, often fat or soft, which cater perfectly to longboarders and beginners. On occasion, you can also find the rare hollow wave. With bigger swell, it can get working out past the breakwater. At high tide, it can be affected by the waves bouncing back off the rock wall. Scarborough is more sheltered from the predominant easterly wind keeping the surf in better shape. Suitable for all surfers. Scarborough is very popular in the summer and can get really crowded, so know the rules, respect the locals and watch out for swimmers.

Quality Rating: 

9

Optimal Swell Direction: 

NE

Optimal Wind Direction: 

SW

Tide: 

Low
Mid

Wave Type: 

Beach break

Wave Size Min: 

1.0ft

Wave Size Max: 

6.0ft

Wave Shape: 

Soft
Fat
Wally
Long

Beach Type: 

Sand

Skill Level: 

Beginner

Crowd Level: 

9

Danger: 

Crowds. Watch out for swimmers. Beware of rips.

Directions 

From Christchurch City, head east on Moorhouse Ave, which leads onto Ferry Road. Continue on all the way to Sumner, then turn left onto Esplanade. Continue past Cave Rock and check out the surf. It is usually better towards the eastern end of the beach.

Nearest Town: 

Sumner

Nearest City: 

Christchurch

Travel Time from City: 

15mins

Road in: 

Seal

Walk in: 

No

Parking at beach: 

Yes

Facilities: 

Toilets
Shower
Changing room

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