Narrabeen Lagoon is a small lake located approx. 26 km (35 mins drive) north of Sydney.

It is said to be a great speed sailing spot for windsurfers when the conditions are right with speeds in excess of 40 knots being achieved.

The water is very flat water under the sand and weed banks.

However this spot does come with its cons. The lake can be shallow and has a number of sand bars lurking just centimetres below which can be hard to identify due to the brackish water. Many a windsurfer has fallen victim to high-speed catapulting wipeouts resulting in gear damage and sometimes serious injuries. It is affectionately known as “Lake Dangerous”.

The lake is affected by tides however the change in water level isn’t huge.

So be sure to ask locals and potter around on the lake before you start cranking up the speed.

In a NE sea breeze, the wind funnels off Narrabeen Beach and Collaroy and it can be very gusty. It usually starts out around 10-15 knots around lunchtime and increases during the afternoon. Around 5pm it generally swings a bit to the north and you can get up to 25 knot gusts.

This spot also works in W around to SW and then SSE to SE but is a no-go in S and N to NW. Also in a SSE to SE the sand banks under Sanctuary island can have some nice flat water sailing.

Fins of 24cm and smaller are recommended for this spot. There is also a bit of weed so a weed fin would be advantageous.

Narrabeen Lagoon is also a good place to learn in the lighter winds. As it is shallow for a long way out, beginners will be able to get off their boards and walk back to shore if needs be.

Another con is that it can get pretty crowded and the water quality is not the best.

Access & Launching

Access via Wakehurst Parkway and park at Billabong Reserve.

There is car parking, a nice grassy area to rig, public toilets, BBQs and a kids playground.

Hazards

Sandbars are the biggest hazard at this spot however there are also razor clams amongst the weeds so best to wear booties. It doesn’t seem too common however the odd shark seems to get through the entrance so just be aware of this.