Bude Summerleaze

## The spot Summerleaze is Bude's town beach, a broad west-facing stretch of sand with a breakwater at the north end and the River Neet flowing out across the sand. The river helps shape the banks into more defined peaks than a typical open beach. It is a reliable, accessible wave that works through most of the tide and caters well to beginners and intermediates. The famous Bude sea pool sits at the south end of the beach. ## When it works Picks up any westerly Atlantic swell and works consistently from September through May. An easterly offshore wind grooms the faces. Handles swell from 2-6ft; above that it starts to close out and Crooklets (next beach north) becomes the better option. Summer swells are smaller but still produce fun knee-to-waist-high waves on the inner banks. ## Where to sit The banks near the river channel usually offer the most defined shape. On a pushing tide, peaks form either side of the breakwater at the north end. The middle of the beach tends to be flatter and better for longboarding. Watch where other surfers are sitting and use the river channel as a paddle-out path. ## Hazards The breakwater is solid concrete and a real danger in any current. The river creates a rip alongside its channel that can catch people out. On bigger days the shorebreak near the sea pool gets heavy. Swimmers use the inside during summer months. Overall though, this is one of Cornwall's safer spots. ## Parking and access Large pay car park directly above the beach with easy access down the slipway or steps. The town is right there with cafes, shops, and surf hire places. Public toilets and outdoor showers available. ## The crowd Busy in summer with surf schools and holiday surfers. Spring and autumn offer much quieter sessions, especially midweek. The beach is big enough to spread out even on busy days. A mix of beginners on foamies and local shortboarders who know the banks well. ## Local tips The river channel works as a natural rip, making the paddle out much easier if you use it. Two hours either side of low is often cleanest before the tide pushes the swell into deeper water. If Summerleaze is too small, check Crooklets around the headland which catches more swell. The barrel cafe on the beach does a proper coffee.