Kelpies

Kelpies is a low-profile, exposed right-hand point break on Tasmania’s East Coast that is known to work infrequently. Access is part of the challenge: entry involves a long walk through private property and a scramble over rocky shoreline, so planning both timing and safe entry/exit is essential. When it does fire, it produces powerful peeling waves on the right that can run long—rides are described as reaching up to about 150 meters when the swell is perfectly angled. The break is said to require a significant south or south-east swell to wrap in and activate properly, and larger swells tend to hold their size while making the paddle-out very difficult. Wind at the spot is often associated with winter frontal systems, and the conditions are described as cross-shore and choppy with southerly winds. West winds are more favorable (offshore), but the spot remains exposed on the point, so conditions can change quickly. Safety is a major focus here due to rocks, heavy kelp and submerged hazards along the point, strong sweeps/powerful currents when swell increases, and shark risk in a remote setting. With no on-site rescue or lifeguards, it’s strongly advised to watch the entry and exit points first (kelp can hide rocks) and consider getting in with a partner.