Southport Beach faces almost due west and receives low ocean swell as well as gulf wind waves. Waves average 0.5 to 1 m, and during higher wave conditions produce a double bar system, with 3 to 4 rips cutting across the inner and outer bars (Fig. 4.53). During normal low wave conditions the inner rips tend to infill and a continuous bar is attached to the beach. In addition the river flows across the southern end of the beach building out a large tidal and bar, cut by the deeper tidal channel.
Swimming
Southport is one of the potentially more energetic of the Adelaide beach and care should be taken here as rip channels and currents are common. Even during low waves the deeper rip channels may persist. Stay in the patrolled area and clear of the southern tidal channels and any rip holes.
Surfing
The more exposed location makes Southport one of the more persistent surfing beaches, with low to moderate waves (0.5 to 1 m) breaking over both the inner and outer bars.
Fishing
This is a popular spot with a choice of river, inlet, rock and beach fishing; the latter often into rip gutters and holes.
General
A relatively natural beach and river mouth, with a more variable surf zone and a chance of bigger waves.
Features
Accessible Beach Matting
