Freshwater East really only works properly in winter time when big swells pound the local coastline and other spots are maxed out. On the plus side, it does have some shelter from the wind.
Years ago this was a semi secret spot, only surfed by a handful of locals mainly due to it's inconsistency but nowadays when it's looking good, you can expect a crowd. One particular day in winter 2007, I saw around 70 surfers in the lineup with boards flying everywhere and people getting very agitated.
Take care surfing here. It's a fast hollow wave and is best left to experienced surfers. Don't drop in - there's no time to correct a mistake here.
Waves can be found towards the left hand side of the beach and in front of the stream towards the middle of the beach. Depending on the sand shifting, you can pretty much surf the whole of the beach. The rip tends to drag you to the left.
Water quality has been consistently excellent over the last 6 years, and the beach was recommended by MCS in this year's Good Beach Guide.
The freshwater stream running into the sea here, forms a nice sand bank where waves peel off in fast barrelling sections. You may even see the occasional otter running around. Families flock here on holiday during summer for its clear waters and pristine sand so it's hard to imagine it ever having good surf.
A sewage pipe is situated off Trewent Point where all effluent is fully treated and pumped out. Local surfers have experienced sore throats here while surfing here, so make your own minds up about water quality on stormy days. Alot will depend on the wind direction and rips.
The waves break in very shallow water - about 2ft so it's quite likely to see a board getting snapped. The shoreline is also lined with small pebbles that will ding that nice new board. Occasionally the barrel holds up long enough to escape which makes it all worthwhile.
The shop that stood at the top of the hill has now gone, so there's not much shelter from the wind whilst getting changed in Winter. There's a pay and display carpark, pub and caravan park all close by.
If you do surf here, respect the local surfers and don't expect to get waves, as this spot only fires, a couple of times each year.
