Cabarita

Cabarita, NSW North Coast is a well-known beach break with a clean, laid-back coastal feel and a reputation for quality waves when conditions line up. It sits on the far north coast of New South Wales, in the Tweed area, and is often considered one of the better surf spots in the region.

Surf style

• Type: Mostly a beach break, with shifting sandbars
• Wave shape: Can offer fun, punchy peaks and occasionally more hollow sections when the banks are good
• Best for: Intermediate surfers and above, though smaller days can suit beginners in the right zone
• Consistency: Fairly reliable compared with many other beach breaks in the area

Best conditions

• Swell: Handles a variety of swell directions, but works best with decent south to southeast swell
• Wind: Offshore westerly/northwesterly winds are typically best
• Tide: Can vary depending on sandbanks, but mid tide is often a good starting point
• Size: Usually shines at waist-high to overhead, depending on banks and swell

Spot character

• Cabarita has a relaxed, scenic setting with headland views and a classic North Coast vibe.
• It can be crowded, especially when conditions are good, because it’s a popular local and traveling-surf destination.
• The quality can change a lot with sand movement, so the break may be excellent one week and ordinary the next.

Hazards / things to know

• Strong rips can form, especially on bigger swells
• Crowds are common
• Sandbanks and currents can shift quickly, so conditions should be checked before paddling out

Overall

Cabarita is a high-quality, accessible North Coast surf spot that can deliver very good beach break waves when the sand and swell align. It’s especially appealing for surfers who like a mix of performance waves, natural scenery, and a chilled coastal atmosphere.