North Beach is a popular surf spot known for its variety of waves and vibrant atmosphere. Located near the Bay of Plenty, it attracts a mix of surfers, from longboarders to bodyboarders. The beach can get pretty crowded, especially when the surf is small, but it's a good place to catch some waves and meet fellow surfers. The vibe here is relaxed, and there's always something happening on the water.
The surf at North Beach can range significantly depending on the conditions. It generally works best with a southeast swell direction, but it can also handle northeast and southwest swells. The waves can size up to around 2 feet (0.6 meters) but are known to get bigger and hollow, especially at higher tides. You'll find some nice right-handers off the end of the beach, with an occasional left bowl on the inside at high tide. The north end of the beach, closer to the Bay of Plenty pier, is another spot for a short right that pops up at higher tides. Winds from the west are preferred, and this beach can cater to surfers of all levels, making it beginner-friendly as well.
A note for surfers: be aware of the patrolled swimming zones where surfboards aren’t allowed from 9 am to 5 pm. When the lifeguards are on duty, you’ll see a lot of bodyboarders catching waves in these areas since they have the lineup to themselves during those hours. Overall, North Beach is a spot with its pros and cons, but it can definitely be worth a visit for a surf session.
