Overview
Ponte Di Ferro is a sand-bottomed beach break that peels both left and right in front of a railway bridge. It takes a solid swell to wake up, and getting in and out of the water is awkward. Strong currents run through here, so it suits surfers who are comfortable holding their position.
When It Works
The beach picks up swell from west through north, with northwest the direction that lines it up best. It's usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 1.8 m / 6 ft, and the bigger end of that window is where the bridge peak really comes to life. Consistency is middling, so it won't be on every time you check it, but the sandbar hands out lefts and rights when the swell arrives.
Wind and Tide
Look for northwest offshore wind to groom it. The bank can work through most of the tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
The lineup stays fairly quiet, so you won't be fighting for waves on a good day. Factor the currents into where you paddle out and keep checking your position against the bridge.
Access
Exit the Salerno–Reggio Calabria highway at Lagonegro and follow route SS 18 to Praia a Mare. There's free parking, including along the roadside, and a surf shop nearby for wave info and gear.
