McKenzies Bay is a sand-bottom beach break that turns on both lefts and rights when the banks cooperate. Whether it breaks at all comes down to the sand, so it can be a fickle wave, but it rewards intermediate surfers when it lines up.
When It Works
The bay draws swell from northeast through east, and northeast (NE) is the direction to wait for. Only NE swell gets the wedge-effect off the cliffs, which is what makes the wave stand up here. It works from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft, and it is moderately consistent, so you will not find it firing every day. Late summer tends to be the best bet for lining up the right swell and sand together.
Wind and Tide
Look for a northwest (NW) offshore wind to groom the bay. It can work across low, mid, and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This one is best left to intermediate surfers and is not a spot for beginners. Expect a moderately busy lineup when it works, though the patchy consistency tends to keep the crowd lighter than it might otherwise be.
Access
There is a car park with free parking, plus paid parking and roadside options nearby.
