Gwithian

## The spot Gwithian is a long, consistent beach break at the eastern end of St Ives Bay in Cornwall. Three miles of sand stretch from Godrevy lighthouse to the Red River outlet, offering numerous peaks across the entire expanse. It picks up slightly more swell than the nearby Hayle beaches due to its more northerly exposure. The lighthouse at Godrevy and the wide-open beach give it a distinctive, beautiful setting. ## When it works Consistent on any westerly or north-westerly Atlantic swell. An easterly or south-easterly offshore wind cleans things up. Works on all tides with a preference for mid-tide when the banks are most defined. The 2-6ft range is ideal. Above that it becomes messy unless the swell is very clean groundswell. Reliable from September through May. ## Where to sit The peaks shift along the beach depending on sand movement. The section near the Red River outlet often has more defined banks shaped by the outflow. The Godrevy (northern) end picks up slightly more swell. Walk for 10 minutes from the main access points and you will find quieter peaks. Look for the darker channels between banks. ## Hazards Rip currents are the main concern, particularly on bigger days. The beach is large enough that drifting several hundred metres is easy to miss. The rocks around Godrevy headland at the north end should be avoided. Some debris from old mining operations occasionally surfaces in the sand after storms. ## Parking and access National Trust car park at Godrevy and separate parking at Gwithian Towans. Both have direct beach access within a couple of minutes. The Godrevy end has a cafe and toilets. The Towans end has less infrastructure. ## The crowd Busy in the main access areas but the beach is so long that you can always find space by walking. Surf schools operate near the car parks. The local crew tend to know which section is working best and congregate there. Autumn midweek sessions are quiet; summer weekends are busy near the car parks but empty 500m in either direction. ## Local tips Gwithian rewards those willing to walk. The peaks 10 minutes from the car park are usually better shaped and far less crowded. The Red River section can produce longer rides along the sandbar edge. If the wind swings onshore, check Porthmeor in St Ives which has different exposure. The Jam Pot cafe at Gwithian Towans is a local favourite.