Claytons

Claytons (Perth North, Western Australia) is a local surf spot north of Perth that tends to work best on a solid west to southwest swell with offshore easterly winds. It’s generally known as a more exposed beachbreak/reefbreak-type setup rather than a highly protected beginner spot, so conditions can change quickly depending on sand movement, tide, and swell direction.

What it’s like

• Wave type: Predominantly beachbreak with variable peaks; can offer punchy, fast waves when the sand lines up.
• Best swell: West to southwest swell
• Best wind: East to southeast offshore winds
• Tide: Usually has a preferred tide window, often mid tide, but this can vary with sandbanks and swell size.
• Crowd: Can get busy when conditions are on, especially with locals and Perth surfers chasing quality banks.

Conditions

• Works best when there’s enough swell to shape the banks without making it too close-out.
• Smaller days can be soft and sectiony; bigger days may become powerful and hollow but less forgiving.
• The quality can vary seasonally as sandbanks shift along the coast.

Hazards

• Strong rips and currents during larger surf
• Shallow sections if sandbanks are thin
• Potential for crowded takeoff zones on good days
• Marine life is always a consideration along WA’s coastline

Good for

• Intermediate to advanced surfers
• Surfers looking for a punchy beachbreak session close to Perth