OVERVIEW

Bramble bush bay is an alternative harbour riding option popular in Northerly winds. It offer flat/choppy conditions with a beautiful view.
Riders heading here should be aware that kiting had been temporarily banned at Bramblebush due to it’s potential impact on a rare bird re-homing program in the area. Kiting is now permitted again, but riders must stay respectful of this and stay close to shore at the NW end of the bay.

WIND DIRECTION

SW | W | NW | W

Facing WNW this spot works best in a W, NW and N wind when conditions will be most stable.

TIDES

Ride-able: All Tides

The shallow shelving beach works 3 hours either side of high tide where the beach is sandy underfoot.
During the 6 hours the tide is out the surface is soft mud, stoney and unpleasant / unsuitable for watersports.

The water current at the NW end of the bay can be significant as it flows mid tide, especially as it ebbs out through the harbour entrance.
The current floods in NW-SE, it ebbs out SE-NW.

WATER CONDITIONS

CHOP

Hazards

Across the 2km long length of the bay the terrain varies. Riders should use their only judgement in looking for the following:

Bramble bushes on the beach
Rocks under the surface
Slippery mud / clay underfoot
House boats to the NW end
Harbour entrance traffic, chain ferry and water current

Local restrictions / etiquette

3rd Party insurance is mandatory to ride in the harbour - It is available from the BKSA.

All independent kiters require a riders permit from the PHC.
Riders should take care to avoid leaving the NW end of the bay and disputing nature on the adjacent islands and SE end of the bay.

Local logistics and amenities

Postcode: BH193BA
Free parking is located on the verge of Ferry Road, there are various foot paths with lead off the road to access Bramble bush bay / the beach. ‘Jerry’s point’ is a good access path.
The closest toilets is located at the national trust car park at shell bay or knoll beach.

BRAMBLE BUSH BAY