Catherine Hill Bay
Catherine Hill Bay is a heritage-listed mining village with a quality right-hand reef break that peels along the southern headland. The historic jetty and mining infrastructure create a unique backdrop for surfing. The wave breaks over a rock and reef bottom, producing long, workable walls with occasional barrel sections on the right swell. Being between Sydney and Newcastle, the spot can get crowded on good days, but it's worth the paddle. The village itself is charming, with the old miners' cottages now heritage-protected.
Catherine Hill Bay surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ESE (120°)
- Direction range
- 90° - 160°
- Size range
- 1m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.7m - 2.1m
- Height multiplier
- 0.90×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- W (270°)
- Offshore range
- 230° - 310°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.4m
Water temp
20°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
6/10
👥 Spring Break (Sep 26 – Oct 11) — expect extra crowds
Access: Historic mining town. Beach access from village.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Catherine Hill Bay?
The Catherine Hill Bay profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.4m and 1.4m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Catherine Hill Bay?
The Catherine Hill Bay profile uses wind from W (270°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 230° to 310°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Catherine Hill Bay?
The Catherine Hill Bay scoring profile favors swell from ESE (90° to 160°), a swell-height range of 1m to 2.5m, and a reference period of 12s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Catherine Hill Bay?
The main season at Catherine Hill Bay is Feb-Oct. A secondary window runs Nov, Dec, Jan. Works year-round. Best on E-SE swells.
How do I get to Catherine Hill Bay?
The spot profile lists SYD as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 100 minutes. Historic mining town. Beach access from village.
What kind of wave is Catherine Hill Bay?
Catherine Hill Bay is a reef break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Feb-Oct
Secondary: Nov, Dec, Jan
Works year-round. Best on E-SE swells.
Getting There
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