Overview
Swanage is an occasional beachbreak set on a sandy bay, backed by a beach town with the usual seaside facilities. When it does break, the sand shapes up both lefts and rights.
When It Works
It takes a lot to switch this bay on: either a monster southwest swell or an east channel swell to push surf onto the sand, so treat it as an occasional option rather than a dependable one. The break draws swell from east through south to southwest (E-S-SW), with an east swell the best match, and works from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 1.2 m / 4 ft.
Wind and Tide
Look for a west offshore wind to clean up the faces. The beach works through most of the tide, though a rising tide is the better call.
Access
There's plenty of parking to choose from, with a car park, paid parking, and roadside spots. Down at the beach you'll find restrooms and a lifeguard, plus camping nearby.
