Elliot Bay is a surf spot located just south of the Bay of Islands on the east coast, north of Whangarei. It's not the easiest place to get to since you’ll have to walk over some private land to access the beach, but it’s worth it for a less crowded surf experience. The bay often has clear water, making it a nice spot to ride some waves when the rest of the coast is flat.

The surf here works best with an east swell but can also pick up from the northeast and southeast. It handles swell sizes starting from around 2 feet (0.6 meters) and provides beach breaks that offer both left and right waves. The best time to surf is during low to high tide, with west winds generally providing the best conditions. It’s a spot that can cater to beginners thanks to its sandy breaks, making it a good place for those just starting out or looking to improve their skills.

Accessing the beach involves crossing through private property, and you’ll find an honesty box for payment. If you're willing to make the trek, you’ll enjoy the more isolated breaks available to the north. Just keep in mind that while this spot can be good, it can also get crowded during prime surfing times.