Surf spot
Stanwell park
Forecast conditions and map view for Stanwell park in Australia, NSW, Coal Coast. Open the interactive surf map to inspect wind, waves, and nearby spots.
- Country
- Australia, NSW, Coal Coast
- Coordinates
- -34.2283, 150.9927
Stanwell Park (Illawarra / Coal Coast, NSW) is a scenic beach break set beneath the cliffs of the northern Illawarra escarpment, just south of Sydney. It’s one of the most beautiful surf spots on the NSW coast, with a small open beach framed by headlands, grassy parkland, and dramatic rock formations.
Surf characteristics
- Type: Mainly a beach break, with occasional peaks influenced by sand movement and nearby rocks
- Wave quality: Can be fun and punchy when it’s on, but conditions are often inconsistent
- Best swell: Usually handles east to southeast swell well; size can build quickly when the coast is exposed
- Wind: Best in westerly / offshore winds; southerly winds can make it messy
- Skill level: Intermediate to advanced when larger or hollow, though smaller days can suit beginners if the surf is gentle
What it’s like
Stanwell Park often offers clean, playful waves on the right swell and tide, but it can also be dumpy and dumpy-fast when the sand banks line up. It’s generally better known for its stunning setting than for being a super consistent surf machine. The surf can shift a lot depending on sand movement, swell angle, and wind.
Hazards / things to know
- Rips can be strong, especially after bigger swells
- Changing sandbanks mean the main take-off zone can move around
- Rocky areas near the edges of the beach can be dangerous
- Can be crowded on good days due to its accessibility and reputation
Best for
- Surfers who like a beautiful beach setting
- People chasing a fun wave with potential for good banks
- A day trip from Sydney or the south coast road trip route
