Overview
Shoreham is usually a messy, below-average beach spot, with the Hotpipe often serving up windslop. The setup is sand and shingle, with a sandbar anchored by the power station outfall.
In big storm conditions, waves can break inside the harbour arm, where the swell is funnelled between concrete walls and can produce both lefts and rights in a sheltered, cleaned-up setup. Outside the eastern arm, there are more exposed lefts and rights, with the Hotpipe the most consistent option.
When It Works
Shoreham is usable from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 1.2 m / 4 ft. It can range from thigh high to overhead when the Channel comes to life.
Swell can arrive from east through south to southwest, with southwest the best direction. Autumn and winter are the main seasons, especially September to February when bigger Channel swells are more likely.
Wind and Tide
The offshore wind direction is southeast.
Mid tide is best, and a rising tide is better. Low to near high can also be surfed.
Local Tips
This is a beginner- to intermediate-friendly spot when conditions are manageable. Shortboards, fish, funboards, longboards, SUPs and bodyboards can all work here.
If there is a wave, expect people on it. The lineup is generally pretty chilled, though a little reserved. Watch for groynes, breakwaters, rips, and possible pollution after rain.
Access
There is easy parking by the beach, including the Basin Road car park, with roadside parking also available.
