The Trough

The Trough is a quite exposed beach and reef break on Adelaide’s South Coast that can produce fairly consistent surf, especially around August. It’s typically best at mid tide and functions as a point-style break with both left and right-handers depending on sand and swell direction. Hazards are a core part of the experience: exposed rocks and shark risk are specifically noted, and reef sections can become very shallow at low tide. Because of these factors—and because it’s also described as not for beginners—the spot is most suitable for experienced surfers who can read conditions and manage the reef safely. Wave performance is described as generally consistent, with wave quality characterized as average to moderately rated and wave power as moderate. The spot is noted to peel and can provide both punchy rides over the reef and longer sections onto sand. On larger swells it can start to close out if it gets too big. Wind-wise, East to Northeast winds are associated with cleaner/offshore conditions, while West winds can blow the spot out. For planning, spot-level guidance also emphasizes waiting for a solid West or Southwest swell to judge how the break is working at its best.