Felixstowe on the Suffolk coast offers some challenging coastal conditions, not really wave sailing but decent rolling swells and excellent jumping in the right winds. On its day it can be epic with tide-against-wind gives endless broad reaching. It is quick and easy to get to from the A12.
- Beach Faces:
-
South-east
- Best Wind Direction:
-
South-west, South
- Best Wind Direction For Waves:
-
South
- Not Good:
-
Anything with North in it.
- Tide:
-
The tide comes in to the sea wall, and there can be quite a lot of current going into the port and the Rivers Deban and Orwell, so mid to low tide is the best option
- What’s On The Bottom:
-
Shingle and sand.
- Any Hazards:
-
Groyne’s, tide, seawall at high tide.
- Other Water Users:
-
Swimmers in summer.
- Suitability / Levels:
-
Intermediates and above. Nearly gybing and being able to waterstart is essential considering the tide. Unless, of course, you have your own personal rescue cover!
- Wipeout Factor:
-
Medium, although the shorebreak can take prisoners!
- Instruction:
-
The nearest is Suffolk Water Sports near Ipswich.
- Kit Hire:
-
None.
- Friendly Factor:
-
Good. The cafe is owned by a windsurfer.
- No Wind Alternatives:
-
Good. The cafe is owned by a windsurfer.
Facilities:
| Toilets |
Yes, on site. |
|---|---|
| Shower |
Yes, but an outside one. |
| Windsurfing Shop |
Skisurf in Colchester 45 mins away. |
| Food |
Shorebreak Cafe over the water. |
| Parking |
Plenty on the road and a car park where you will have to pay. |
| Pub |
You will have to venture into the town. |
- Accommodation:
-
Go to the Suffolk Coast website for
places to stay in Felixstowe.Camping at Peewit, Tel. 01394 284511 or St Margarets, Tel. 01394 411247.
- Local Hotshots:
-
Andy Mexome.
- Local Knowledge / Secrets:
-
Felixstowe actually forms a bay, so depending on the wind direction look for the best conditions north or south of the pier.
- Extra:
-
Lowestoft and Walberswick further north can be great wave sailing locations. Alton Water is nearby for beginner and intermediate sailing and windsurfing.
- How To Get There:
-
Take the A12 from the south, or the A14 from the North and follow the signs to Ipswich and then onto Felixstowe. Head into the Town and NOT to the port. Take the road signposted to the sea front and then find a place to park on the beach.
- Report By:
-
Clyde Waite
