Sandshoes

Sandshoes is a surf spot located in New South Wales, Australia, at the southern tip of the Cronulla peninsula near the mouth of Port Hacking. The spot is also known as Shoes Reef or Oak Park. The wave breaks over a rocky reef bottom with sea urchins, which is why surfers in the past wore sandshoes for protection. The spot is surrounded by trees and the water has a distinct smell. The wave is a right-hand reef break that is short and sharp, with steep faces and occasional pits when the swell is strong. The ride is usually less than 50 meters. Sandshoes works best on mid to high tides, especially when the tide is rising. The spot can start working with swells as small as 2 feet and can handle up to about 8 feet in good conditions. The best swell directions are east, southeast, and south, and the best wind directions are southwest, west, and northwest. The spot is not recommended for beginners due to the reef bottom, sharp faces, and the need for solid technique and awareness. It is better suited for intermediate and advanced surfers, and shortboards are commonly used here. The area is often less crowded than nearby beach breaks, but it is important to respect the locals and blend in, especially when the spot is busy. Always check the surf etiquette when the spot is crowded. Before paddling out, check your skills to make sure the spot and conditions fit your surfing level. There are other reef breaks within a short walk, such as Windy Point, Shelley, Toads, Harvey’s Little Point, and Bay Waves. Access is usually from the Oak Park area.