Clifton Beach

Clifton Beach is a surf spot located in Tasmania, Australia, approximately 25 km southeast of Hobart on the South Arm Peninsula. It is part of the City of Clarence and is known for its surfing conditions. The beach stretches 2.1 km and faces south-southeast into Storm Bay, making it exposed to all southerly swells. Waves at Clifton Beach average 1-1.5 meters, creating a moderately steep beach with a continuous bar cut by rips every 200 meters, and permanent rips against the rocks at each end. The beach is backed by a coastal reserve with vegetated dunes that have moved up to 300 meters inland. Clifton Beach provides both left and right waves, suitable for surfers of all experience levels. The bottom is sandy, and the best surfing conditions are typically at medium and high tides. The surf spot is not overly crowded, with few surfers in the water. While the beach can hold waves up to 6 feet on a very good day, it often closes out in anything over 2.5 to 3 feet. The banks are generally better on high tide, although there are exceptions. Surfers should check the surf forecast and report before heading out, and it’s important to adhere to surf etiquette, especially in crowded spots. Check your skills before paddling out to make sure the spot and conditions fit your surfing level. Respect the locals.