Loisells Beach.

Loisells Beach sits at Waihau Bay on the East Cape coast north of Gisborne, offering an exposed stretch of beachbreak with multiple peaks shifting across an uneven bottom of reef patches and sand. The mixed bottom creates hollow, fast walls with steep takeoffs and the occasional vertical drop on the reef sections, while the sandy stretches serve up more forgiving peaks. East swells light the place up best, though it picks up anything from northeast through to south, making it one of the more consistent options along this remote coastline. Needs a northwest wind to clean things up properly. Low to mid tide shapes the banks, with the incoming push generally improving conditions. A rock and sand point within walking distance to the north provides an alternative when the beachbreak closes out. The lineup sees moderate traffic by East Cape standards, enough that you will share peaks on good days but rarely feels hectic. Rip currents run through the lineup and submerged rocks lurk where reef meets sand, demanding awareness on bigger swells. Access is via a gravel road off State Highway 35 at Waihau Bay, with camping available right at the beach.

Hollow walls and vertical drops where reef patches fracture Waihau Bay's uneven floor.