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Ogmore rivermouth

The rivermouth during a good swell in 2010.

A fickle river mouth set up, unsuitable for learners with powerful surf and strong rip currents.

The beach between Ogmore and Newton is pristine and backs on to an extensive dune system that once stretched as far as Gower, so it's a great place for a walk when there's no surf.

The low cliffs and rock platforms along the coast from the mouth of the River Ogwr, towards Southerndown provide access to some of Wales' best geological heritage and are well worth a look.

Over on the Newton side of the river lies Merthyr Mawr - home to one of Europe's largest sand dunes so if you're feeling fit, try running up and down it a few times!

You can park at the rivermouth alongside the surf life saving club but remember to pay & display or you could face a parking fine.

Upon entering the river, you'll be greeted by a fast flowing current, so this is not a spot recommended for learners. The rip can take you out or even upstream if the tides are particularly large.

If you make it across the river in once piece you'll find you have a number of peaks to choose from.

The main right hand peak lies directly in front of the river and works towards high tide. If it's good then expect crowds and a high standard of surfing.

This beach is popular with longboarders and stand up paddle boarders (SUP's) who tend to pick off the best waves early with infuriating regularity, so be prepared to fight for the scraps.

You can find quieter peaks further down the beach towards Newton or around the corner near the boat ramp where there's a shallow left-hand reef break but this is not recommended for learners.

A rare day at the river mouth

Ogmore river mouth being surfed by Martin Aaron

Image by Martin Aaron.

When leaving the beach, you'll have to cross the river again which can be tricky. Keep an eye out for submerged rocks near the river bank.

After heavy rain, the water quality here can suffer due to sewer overflow pipes and farm run off from the fields, so don't swallow the water.

The wave itself is fast and hollow but prone to 'closing out' half way along so it can be a bit hit and miss at times.

The remaining peaks, break right and left and can become very 'bowly' and powerful, but trying to remain in the same spot with a strong rip flowing can be pretty exhausting.

As the tide pushes in, the wave breaks closer to the shore, a little bit like Oxwich Bay on Gower but remains hollow.

The break needs a huge swell to get it going and other spots in the area may well be better, but it can sometimes be worth a gamble.

Further down towards Newton you can find quieter spots to surf but it all depends on the sand banks at the time.

It's a sensitive spot due to the fact that it rarely gets good so bear that in mind if you're planning on surfing here. It's no longer a secret though and information about it can be readily found online, hence why I've featured it.

Article written by Martin Aaron