Sandy Bay
Sandy Bay at Llantwit Major is a Welsh bodyboard and surf wedge that wakes up when Bristol Channel energy meets the right tide and bank shape. The wave is fickle, short and powerful, with local knowledge making a big difference. Treat the pin and conditions as a starting point and check the tide carefully before committing.
Sandy Bay surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (235°)
- Direction range
- 210° - 260°
- Size range
- 0.9m - 2.4m
- Ideal size
- 1.6m - 2m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NNE (20°)
- Offshore range
- 0° - 45°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
Water temp
13°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Bottom
Mixed
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
3/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Sandy Bay?
The Sandy Bay profile favors mid tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Sandy Bay?
The Sandy Bay profile uses wind from NNE (20°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 0° to 45°. 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 Sandy Bay?
The Sandy Bay scoring profile favors swell from SW (210° to 260°), a swell-height range of 0.9m to 2.4m, and a reference period of 14s. 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 Sandy Bay?
The main season at Sandy Bay is Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar.
How do I get to Sandy Bay?
The spot profile lists CWL as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 30 minutes.
What kind of wave is Sandy Bay?
Sandy Bay is a reef break, a peak with lefts and rights over a mixed bottom. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Getting There
Nearby Spots
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Lynmouth
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Three Peaks
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Crab Island
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Pete's Reef
Gower's shallow reef - Low tide specialist - Sharp and technical