- Wind: SE–S
- Season: November to April
- Water: Reef-sheltered, cruisy inside, swell stays out back
- Skill: Intermediate (forgiving terrain, mellow progression)
- Ideal Tide: Mid to high (covers reef ledges)
- Launch Space: Sandy beach, easy access via shack road
- Hazards: Reef edges at low tide, limited rescue, remote setting
South Australia – Nene Valley
Welcome to Nene Valley — reef-protected, low-key, and surprisingly forgiving. Just west of Mount Gambier, this spot hides behind limestone flats and broken reef that knock down the surf and smooth out the inside.
The terrain’s friendly — sandy bottom, solid rigging space, and easy access straight off the shack road. The reef sits offshore, creating a natural lagoon when the tide’s up and the wind’s right. It’s not butter-flat, but it’s clean and cruisy — a great place for intermediates looking to step up without getting slapped.
Works best on a SE to S wind, with mid to high tide helping cover the reef ledges and giving you room to move. Swell stays mostly out the back, making this spot a safe zone compared to the more exposed beaches nearby.
No crowds, no stress — just you, the wind, and a coastline that does you a few favours.
Nene Valley isn’t showy, but it’s solid. Reef-protected, rideable, and relaxed — one of the Limestone Coast’s better-kept secrets.