The tiny enclave of Smiths Beach comes alive during summer, as families and surfers flock to enjoy this one-kilometre stretch of sand.

With a full-time population of under 300 people, on a sunny summer day the streets are bustling, and you’ll find the carparks full by 9am.

So just what is the attraction?

For families, the appeal of good waves and gentler conditions than its sibling at Cape Woolamai, makes Smiths the ideal beach. There are waves for surfers from beginners up, and on the low tide there’s rockpools to explore, with some of them large enough to snorkel in.

From the beach it is just a short stroll to the popular local store for food and drinks and surfing equipment is available for hire from Island Surfboards. Smiths is also home to several local surf schools, so it’s easy to book in for a lesson and make the most of your time at the beach.

The regular lifesaving patrols offer extra peace of mind – Smiths is patrolled each weekend over summer by the Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club, and from December 27 until the end of February, the patrols are seven days a week.

With an access ramp to the beach, carpark and toilet facilities, Smiths has everything you need for a great day at the beach. You just need to bring your towels, boards and bathers … and don’t forget to slip, slop, slap.