Back to Map

Balding Bay

Left and right-19.1102, 146.8694

Overview

Quality
Regional classic
Crowd
Empty
Experience
Good for all levels
Bottom
Sand and rocks

About this Spot

Balding Bay is a surf spot located in Queensland, Australia. This spot provides both left and right waves, with a sandy and rocky bottom. The ideal tide for surfing here is low to medium. Balding Bay is considered a regional classic, suitable for surfers of all levels, but it rarely breaks and the wave length is less than 50 meters. The spot is usually empty, so you might have the waves to yourself. Nearby surf spots include Radical Bay, Florence Bay, and Arcadia Beach. To reach Balding Bay, you can catch a ferry from Townsville and drive to either Radical or Horseshoe Bay, or take a bus. From there, it’s about a 20-minute walk to the bay. Be cautious of jellyfish and wear a stinger suit, as there is no mobile phone reception and getting stung could be dangerous. Sharks and crocodiles have been sighted around the island, so stay alert. The bay is protected from winds, making it a good spot during cyclonic conditions, but if the swell turns southerly, the waves will stop breaking. Always check the surf forecast and report before heading out, and use a map or webcam to get a sense of the conditions. Remember to respect the locals and check the surf etiquette when a spot is crowded. Check your skills before paddling out to make sure the spot and conditions fit your surfing level.

Optimal Conditions

Best Swell
N, NE, E
Swell Direction
337.5°-112.5°
Best Wind
S, SW, W
Wind Direction
157.5°-292.5°
Best Tide
Low, Medium (best tide movement: Rising tide)
Best Size
Good from 1.2 meters
Wave Length
< 50m
Frequency
Rarely break (less than 5 days/year)

Location

Coordinates

-19.110200° N, 146.869383° W

Open in Maps

Use these coordinates in your preferred mapping or forecast application

Nearby Spots