Broadway Beach - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (October - March)

The heart of the winter season brings the most consistent swell to Broadway Beach. As the North Atlantic storm track ramps up, long-period groundswells from the NW and WNW become more frequent, although the south-facing orientation of the beach means these swells often arrive at a less than ideal angle. However, the occasional south-easterly or southerly component from lingering low pressure systems can deliver clean lines. Wind patterns also improve, with northerly offshore breezes (N, NNW, NW) becoming more prevalent, especially after cold fronts pass. This window offers the best chance of rideable, shoulder-high surf with a punchy period.

Fair Surf Season (April & September)

The transitional months of April and September see a mixed bag. Swell energy is lower, but the wind becomes more variable. In April, the tail end of winter still brings some NW swell, while September sees the first hints of autumn activity. However, onshore breezes dominate much of the time, limiting quality. When a low pressure system stalls off the coast, it can spin up clean SSE swell with lighter winds – these are the days to watch.

Low Surf Season (May - August)

Summer months are the most challenging for surf at Broadway Beach. The swell window is dominated by short-period, small windswell from the east and southeast, with average heights rarely exceeding 0.5m. The prevailing wind is from the south-southwest through southwest, which is directly onshore for a south-facing beach, creating bumpy, choppy conditions. The wave period averages around 6-7 seconds, offering little power. While early mornings can occasionally see light northerly breezes, the window for clean surf is extremely narrow. This is the season to focus on longboard or log sessions in small, weak waves, or just enjoy the beach.

November: Consistent Cold

November brings a steady diet of constant swell. Average swell height is 0.7m with a period of 6.5s. Swell direction is a mix: SSE (9.0%), S (8.9%), and SE (9.1%) are still prominent, but NW (7.8%) and WNW (7.8%) sewells are now delivering significant 1-1.5m waves. Winds are ideal 8% of the time, with NW (13.0%) and WNW (12.1%) being the dominant directions – strong, cold offshore winds that groom the waves. The downside is that these winds often blow 20-40kph, creating surface chop when they're too strong. Still, the frequency of storms in the Atlantic means there's almost always something to ride. The best sessions come when a low pressure system stalls to the east, sending long-period SW or S swell, and the wind backs to the NNE or N after a cold front. That can produce glassy, clean head-high surf. November is a month for the diligent surfer who is willing to brave the cold for well-formed waves.