Surf: Well sheltered from S winds and far less likely to be rammed, Hat Head gives intermediates up a chance to pick off a few peelers over the rocky shelf below the pointy headland. Any moderate E swell, any S wind and lower tides make the recipe for shorter rides than Crescent, but often with a bit more push. The obligatory open beachbreaks can get punchy and hollow. Environment: Shallow protected swimming at the rivermouth make this a family friendly spot.