Milford On Sea Windsurfing Guide
General info
Windsurfing ratings
Milford On Sea Gallery
Milford on Sea is an understated beach that doesn't appear to get windsurfed too often. It performs really well when other beaches switch off plus it gets a good dose of swell due to it's SSW orientation. For those interested in wave sailing, it's swell size will be comparable to Southbourne although it is much less powerful size for size.
The beach is a little difficult to access being at the foot of a cliff, which requires navigating the stairs, but has a great view of the Isle of Wight. Otherwise it would be a good beach for recreational windsurfers and for wave riding.
Features
In a NW wind, the only other location on this stretch of coast that allows you to windsurf in the sea is really only Kimmeridge Bay – a long way away. Ok, Milford on Sea does not boast the world class reef of Kimmeridge but the sandbar provides some excellent wave riding and jumping.
The sand bar's effect on the waves stretches a sensible distance offshore meaning the jumping can be very good as well in cross-onshore conditions (SSE,NNW). For down the line conditions, look for SE and NW winds on the charts, or alternatively watch out for high Bigsalty Wave Ratings. Like other beaches such as Highcliffe or Southbourne that catch plenty of swell, in a directly onshore wind you are better going elsewhere.
Considerations
The shorebreak could be considered a little tricky on a good swell, the trick here can be to jump your kit in the water and swim out a short way before waterstarting.
The tidal flow can be quite strong on an incoming tide and a NW wind, the direction has the effect of taking you along the coast towards the IOW. This shouldn't be anything to worry about and makes for good upwind practice.