Overview
Clarence Point is a right-hand point break just north of the Clarence River mouth, north of Kaikoura. Around 1500 metres of boulder-lined coastline is angled into the swell, setting up a string of walling right-hand point options. It is a good-quality wave that rewards the walk in to reach it.
When It Works
The point draws swell from east through south to southwest (E-S-SW), and lines up best on a southeast (SE) swell. It is usable from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 3 m / 10 ft, giving a decent window of size to work with. Consistency can be hit or miss, so it pays to catch it when the swell lines up.
Wind and Tide
Look for a west (W) offshore wind to clean up the walls. The point breaks across low, mid, and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This one suits intermediate surfers comfortable running a longer point wall. Expect a fairly quiet lineup when it is working.
Access
From Kaikoura, drive north on State Highway 1 for about 20 minutes. Cross the Clarence River, pass the couple of houses, and round the next big bend, then park at the side of the road. From there it is a walk across the train tracks and several paddocks to reach the point, with free roadside parking where you leave the car. If you want easier rides and a much shorter walk in, Kekerengu further north is the softer option.
