Sumner Bar

📍 Local Knowledge

Sumner Bar in Kaikoura is a fairly exposed beach and river bar break that has inconsistent surf with no particular seasonal pattern. The best conditions occur when a distant East-northeast groundswell combines with an offshore wind direction from the Southwest. The break offers both left and right hand waves and provides good surf at all stages of the tide. It is rarely crowded here, though surfers should take care as strong rips are a significant hazard. The best time of year for surfing Sumner Bar with consistent, clean waves is during the winter, particularly the month of July.