Highcliffe

Highcliffe is a beach break with shifting peaks that sits fairly exposed on the coast, working best when southwest swell combines with offshore northerly winds during the winter season. The wave develops close to shore and offers consecutive sections across small to moderate sizes, typically ranging up to around four feet. The spot works at any tide but performs well on the higher stages, though it tends to get heavy and lose shape in larger swell, and can be blown apart by unfavourable wind quite easily. Skill-wise it suits beginners through intermediate surfers, particularly those learning in shallower water on the sandier sections.

Access is straightforward with abundant parking at the clifftop and a developed car park at Highcliffe Castle featuring a ramp system down to the beach. The main challenge when paddling out involves the rocky groynes and rip currents that form especially near these structures and headlands, requiring attention to where you enter and exit the water. Tides can cut off escape routes, so timing your session around tide tables is important for safety.