Gunnery

Gunnery is a surf spot on the Victorian coast near Melbourne East, known more as a local reef/point-style break than a classic beach break. It’s one of those spots that can light up with the right swell, but it’s generally more exposed, technical, and conditions-dependent than beginner-friendly.

Typical character

• Wave type: Reef/point-like surf
• Break: Usually favors a clean swell direction and can offer longer, more organized waves when it’s on
• Best conditions: Offshore winds, a solid swell, and favorable tide
• Skill level: Intermediate to advanced due to potential for speed, shallow sections, and tricky entry/exit depending on the setup

What it’s like

• Can be powerful and punchy when swell is up
• Works best when the ocean is clean and well-formed
• Often more rewarding for surfers who know how to read the tide and sand/reef setup
• Like many Melbourne-area surf spots, conditions can change quickly with wind and swell shifts

Things to keep in mind

• Hazards: Reef/rocks, strong currents, and shallow sections at lower tide
• Crowds: May be quieter than more famous breaks, but quality days can attract locals
• Accessibility: Usually requires some local knowledge to pick the best takeoff zone and time it