Overview
Evans Head tends to get by-passed, mostly because it's a detour off the Pacific Highway. The breakwall at the rivermouth has its days, throwing rights that stay protected from south winds, though it doesn't break with the power or shape of the Ballina 'Walls'. The curious might find better shape over the backbeach called Chinamans, and there's the rarity of a right point breaking off Snapper Rocks. That knob of a headland was spotted by Captain Cook on his travels and was named after him at the time, and from there the coast stretches 30 km down a long, lonely expanse of beach to Woody Head and Yamba.
When It Works
Everything breaks over sand here, and the waves run right. Swell comes in from northeast through southeast, with southeast (SE) swell the best match. It's usable from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 3 m / 10 ft, and it's moderately consistent, so there are plenty of worthwhile windows without it turning on every day.
Wind and Tide
Look for southwest (SW) offshore wind. It can work through most of the tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This is friendly water for beginners. Expect a moderately busy lineup when it works, and plan for a lot more company in summer when the population triples and the holiday-makers hit the water. The flags often take out the best peak closest to the wall, which leaves scattered groups on the peaks up the beach. It's also genuinely sharky around here and over the back at Snapper Rocks, where large noahs are regular visitors and attacked a surfer in 2015.
Access
There's a car park with free parking, plus paid and roadside options. You'll find restrooms and showers, camping, lifeguards, and a surf school.
