Overcombe faces south and is therefore one of the top locations along the south coast for wave sailing. It needs a good South-west wind to build up swell, and when the tide is good the waves are awesome. It gives cross-on port riding. If the wind goes south-east then it will be classic. October and November are the best months for good conditions when the water is not yet too cold. The beach can get busy during the summer holidays but the main tourist beach is 2 miles down the other end.
- Beach Faces:
-
Southerly.
- Best Wind Direction:
-
South-east for waves South-west for general sailing.
- Best Wind Direction For Waves:
-
A South or South-west swell to build up the waves. Then a South-west wind gives good port tack riding and starboard jumping.
- Not Good:
-
North-east.
- Tide:
-
Low to mid-tide is best. At high tide the waves often break hard on the shingle bank and the waves don’t kick up as much.
- What’s On The Bottom:
-
Sand and a thin line of rocks if you find yourself coming in further down the beach.
- Any Hazards:
-
Apart from when Dan Ellis is on the water, no.
- Other Water Users:
-
The occasional kitesurfer or surfer.
- Suitability / Levels:
-
Mainly advanced, most learners stick to Weymouth harbour. All levels can find this beach challenging depending on the size of swell and the strength of wind. However saying all of that, in the summer, with light onshore winds, the beach is good for complete beginners.
- Wipeout Factor:
-
You’d be unlucky to break kit here; the waves are never that fierce and the shore dump is pretty easy going.
- Instruction:
-
Yes, this is run by Windtek who teach in Portland harbour where you get flat water and a consistent wind over Chesil beach.
- Kit Hire:
-
No
- Friendly Factor:
-
On any windy day, however cold, you’ll get around twenty guys out – very friendly and social.
- No Wind Alternatives:
-
On any windy day, however cold, you’ll get around twenty guys out – very friendly and social.
Facilities:
| Toilets |
Yes, in the café which is right next to where you park. |
|---|---|
| Shower |
No |
| Windsurfing Shop |
Yes, Second Wind is situated right in the car park and also Windtek in nearby Weymouth. |
| Food |
Overcombe café; amazing food andyou can stay in a wetsuit. |
| Parking |
Yes, right next to water. |
| Pub |
A short drive into town and you’ll find hundreds of bars and clubs. |
- Accommodation:
-
Lots of B&Bs as you head towards the town centre, all visible from the main road. Phone ahead and book with the Weymouth Tourist Centre: 01305 785747.
- Local Hotshots:
-
Nick Dempsey, Dan Ellis, Bryony Shaw, Lucy Horwood, Kevin Greenslade, Callum Edge to mention a few.
- Local Knowledge / Secrets:
-
If its more south-east you can sail from the bandstand closer to the town as the wind can be cleaner here.
- How To Get There:
-
Come into Weymouth on the A354, head towards town centre. When you reach the seafront head east towards Overcombe. Second Wind is visible from the road, pull in and park in public parking in front of the shop.
- Report By:
-
Greg King
