Overview
Ferrel is a huge stretch of golden-sand beachbreak running north of town, backed by crumbly red sandstone cliffs. It is a consistent swell catcher with shifting sandbars, lefts and rights, and fun waves when the banks line up.
When It Works
It breaks over sand and picks up plenty of swell from southwest to north, with northwest the optimal swell direction. Ferrel is usable from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft. It works all year, with autumn and especially September to November standing out.
Somewhere along the beach you can usually find a decent wave on small swells. When it gets bigger, it can become heavy and rippy.
Wind and Tide
The offshore wind direction is east. South and southeast winds can be workable, but any kind of north wind tends to make it messy and the beach is easily blown out.
All tides can have waves, and a rising tide is better. Mid tide is optimal. At high tide, parts of the beach can disappear.
Local Tips
Ferrel suits beginners, especially in smaller surf, and works with shortboards, funboards, longboards, fish and bodyboards. It is often fairly quiet, but if one peak is busy, walking up the beach gives you plenty of other options. The lineup can feel a little reserved, so a humble, respectful approach helps.
Access
Access is via rough piste roads and can be tricky after heavy rain. There is cliff-top parking, with free car-park and roadside options in places. Do not leave valuables in the car. Cliff access is prone to erosion, so take care near the edges.
