Sumner Avenue

Sumner Avenue is an exposed beach/jetty surf break in Strathmere, offering dependable waves year-round with lefts and rights. It’s shaped by shifting sandbars and rock jetties, so wave behavior can change noticeably with tide and sandbar position. Overall wave energy is typically low to moderate, which makes it a common choice for longboarding and progression, though conditions can still become hazardous. The spot is best when the swell comes from the southeast (and sometimes east) and when you’re set up for mid-tide. West winds are generally offshore and help groom the waves into cleaner lines; east or onshore winds tend to increase chop and reduce quality. On larger surf, the waves may hold some size but can also become less organized and more prone to closing out toward shorebreak. Safety is a primary concern here: dangerous rip currents are reported around the break, alongside submerged pilings and rock-jetties-related hazards. During summer, the shoreline can be clogged with logs on small swells, and fishing lines/debris may be present. Plan for careful entry and exits, and use appropriate protective gear—especially in cooler months. Seasonally, July is highlighted as a best month for surf, while the longer best season stretches roughly from September through March. Summer can be sometimes crowded with tourists, but the spot is often quiet in the off-season. Water temperatures range from about 3–5°C in winter to the low-to-mid 20s °C by late summer, so wetsuit choice matters.