Located in the Camel Estuary in North Cornwall, Daymer Bay is a gem that works on wind directions that blow out other spots. It offers a unique mix of flat water at low tide and fun, rolling waves in the channel at high tide. It is set against the backdrop of rolling green hills and the infamous Doom Bar sandbank.
Detailed Wind & Conditions Chart
| Month | Wind Probability | Avg Wind Speed | Wave Quality | Wetsuit | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep - Dec | 80% | 18-28 kts | Excellent | 4/3 or 5/4 | Waves/Swell |
| Jan - Mar | 70% | 20-35 kts | Good | 5/4mm + Hood | Stormy |
| Apr - Jun | 60% | 15-22 kts | Moderate | 4/3mm | Mixed |
| Jul - Aug | 50% | 12-18 kts | Small/Flat | 3/2mm | Sea Breeze |
Data compiled from Magic Seaweed and Windfinder historical records.
Primary Spots
The Channel (Doom Bar)
The deep water channel runs between Daymer Bay and Padstow.
- The Wave: As the Atlantic swell hits the Doom Bar sandbank, it stands up into long, rolling waves that are perfect for wingfoiling. They are not hollow, so they are forgiving.
- Tide Warning: The tidal current here is fierce (4-6 knots).
- Outgoing Tide (Ebb): The current flows out to sea. If the wind is light and you drop off the foil, you can be swept out past the headland very quickly. Danger.
- Incoming Tide (Flood): The current pushes you into the estuary. Safer.
The Bay (Inside)
Closer to the beach, the water is flatter and protected from the main swell. Good for intermediate riders practicing gybes.
Alternative Spots Nearby
Hawkers Cove
Located on the opposite side of the estuary (Padstow side).
- Access: Harder to reach (narrow lanes).
- Conditions: Similar to Daymer but works on different tide states.
- Vibe: Quieter, wilder feel.
Polzeath
The main surfing beach around the corner.
- Wingfoiling: Generally not recommended due to the sheer number of surfers and swimmers.
- Rules: Strictly regulated in summer. Stick to Daymer for foiling.
Best Time to Visit
Autumn (Sept-Nov): The Atlantic swells start to pump, and the wind is consistent. The water is still relatively warm. Winter: Can be epic, but you need to be hardy.
Gear Strategy
Safety Gear: A helmet and impact vest are highly recommended. A coiled leash is essential to prevent your board springing back at you in waves. Wing: 4m or 5m. Board: A slightly smaller board (75-95L) helps in the waves, but ensure you have enough volume to slog home if the wind drops against the tide.
Accommodation & Dining
Accommodation
- St Moritz Hotel: Luxury hotel nearby in Trebetherick. Spa and pool. Visit St Moritz
- Higher Wanford Farm: Camping and caravan site nearby. Visit Higher Wanford
- Point Holidays: Local holiday cottage rentals.
Dining
- The Mariners: Paul Ainsworth's pub in Rock. Incredible food. Book weeks in advance.
- TJ’s Surf Cafe: Overlooking Polzeath beach. Great burgers.
- Blue Tomato Cafe: In Rock, great for breakfast.
Schools & Rentals
Nearby Centers
- Camel Ski School: Located in Rock. Primarily waterskiing, but they are the local experts on the estuary conditions and foil safety. Visit Camel Ski
- Wavehunters: Surf school in Polzeath. They may offer advice and rentals.
Travel Logistics
Getting There:
- Drive: 5 hours from London via M4/M5/A30.
- Train: London Paddington to Bodmin Parkway (4h), then 30 min taxi.
Parking:
- Daymer Bay Car Park: Large car park right at the beach. Pay and display. It fills up on sunny summer days.
Local Rules & Etiquette
- Summer Restrictions: In July and August, there are restrictions on kiting and windsurfing between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM due to swimmers. Wingfoiling usually falls under these rules—check the signage at the car park.
- Boat Traffic: The estuary is busy with fishing boats and the Rock-Padstow ferry. Give them right of way.
- Doom Bar: Do not sail directly over the shallowest part of the bar in big swell—it breaks heavily and unpredictably.
Resources
- Magic Seaweed (Surfline) Polzeath - Nearby surf forecast
- Camel Estuary Webcam - View across the water
- Polzeath Webcam - Nearby surf check
- Padstow Harbour Commissioners - Estuary rules and navigation
- Easytide Padstow