Coney Beach
The go to alternative when the wind is offshore at Rest Bay. SE winds that blow off the land at Rest Bay are cross-shore here, making Coney the spot to head to.
Best Wind
SE to S
Avoid Wind
Westerlies
Skill Level
Intermediate+
Parking
Free / Pay
Wind Direction Guide
Best: SE, ESE, E, S
Cross-shore conditions. Position near the left rocks when wind is easterly.
Caution: SSW
Can work but starting to get gusty as wind comes over the town.
Avoid: W, NW, N, NE
Westerlies are extremely gusty coming over the town. Head to Rest Bay instead.
Hazards & Restrictions
- Stay well clear of the harbour wall - currents can push you towards it and the rocks are dangerous.
- Set up at the eastern end of the beach, away from beach users and the funfair area.
- Sea wall and rocks on both edges of the beach - maintain a safe distance when riding.
- Very busy in summer with tourists visiting the funfair and amusements. Give way to swimmers.
- Westerly winds are extremely gusty and dangerous here - they come turbulent over the town buildings.
Location
Imagery: Esri World Imagery
Access & Facilities
Getting There
M4 Junction 37 towards Porthcawl. Follow signs to the town centre / funfair. The beach is near the Hi-Tide Inn.
Parking
Car park near the Hi-Tide Inn overlooking the beach. Street parking also available in surrounding roads.
Facilities
- Pubs and cafes nearby
- Public toilets
- Funfair and amusements
- Fish & chip shops
- Easy town centre access
Local Tips
Coney Beach is the go-to alternative when the wind is offshore at Rest Bay. Rest Bay faces west, so when the wind swings to the SE it blows straight off the land there, making it unflyable. That same SE wind is cross-shore at Coney, giving you clean conditions and great wave riding with swell.
Position yourself near the left rocks when the wind is from the east to maximise your downwind run. Check the wind direction on the Weather page before deciding where to go.
Live Webcam
Porthcawl Pier Webcam
Live view towards Coney Beach and the harbour
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I kitesurf at Coney Beach instead of Rest Bay?
Head to Coney Beach when the wind is from the east or southeast. These winds blow offshore at Rest Bay (making it dangerous), but are cross-shore at Coney Beach, giving clean rideable conditions. Check the live wind direction on the dashboard before deciding.
What skill level do I need for Coney Beach?
Coney Beach is best suited to intermediate and advanced kitesurfers. The beach is narrower than Rest Bay with hazards including the harbour wall and rocky outcrops on both sides. You need to be confident at riding upwind and self-rescuing. Beginners should start at Rest Bay instead.
Is Coney Beach good for wave riding?
Yes, Coney Beach can be excellent for wave riding. When the swell is up and the wind is from the SE, you get clean waves with cross-shore wind - perfect for kite wave riding. Position yourself near the left rocks to maximise your downwind wave run.
What are the main hazards at Coney Beach?
The biggest hazard is the harbour wall - currents can push you towards it and the rocks are dangerous. There are also rocky outcrops on both edges of the beach. Westerly winds are extremely gusty and turbulent here because they pass over the town buildings. Always set up at the eastern end, away from beach users and the funfair area.