Launching is easy when the swell is small, and when the tide is midway between low and high. Then it is possible to launch anywhere along the beach. When the tide comes in, the shore-break becomes progressively worse. Then the best place to launch is just to the right of the rock pool, because there is a channel where the waves don’t break as hard. But beware of surfers at high tide! On a spring high tide the surfers appear as if by magic, because there is a nice meaty shore break. If there is a side wash, the surfers will catch a wave to the beach, and walk along the beach and re-enter the sea in the same area that you want to launch your board.
At high tide, and with a moderate swell, the back line waves at Warner’s crumble, and have very little power. So it is easy to get out again after sailing in on a wave. Just remember to gybe before you reach the shore-break!
Rigging area: There is a small patch of grass next to Baggies, the little restaurant that serves beach clientele. Watch out for dog turds! For some reason, dogs like crapping here. There is an ablution block and an outside shower as well. Next to the outside shower is another patch of grass, but it is not as convenient for rigging, because it is further away from the parking area.
Warner Beach is a bit further south than Dooneside. Follow the route as before, but continue along Seadoone Road until you get to a stop sign. Turn left into Kingsway road. Follow this road until it crests and overlooks the sea. Turn left at a sign marked Warner Beach. A big block of flats overlooks Warner Beach. There is a parking area in front of the flats.
- Andy