Cromer can be surprisingly good, the pier can provide reasonable protection from onshores & given a decent swell can definitely work. The waves can hold up with a decent shoulder making re-entries & off the lips fairly easy. However it can suddenly change & we've been out when it's gone from 3-4 ft nice 'n' clean to gnarly close outs when the tide gets full.
If East Runton is poor then this is a good option. Make sure that you surf to the left of the pier as you look at it (better waves). The only problem with Cromer is parking, as you wont find a space on the front so it could be a trek through town!
I've been surfing the the East Runton break for ten years, and my advice to anyone coming down for a weekend of surf is expect anything from a mill pond to 6 foot and clean. When this break works (one in ten weekends) it is fantastic. Afterwards expect to find me and the boys at the Welly Peb, playing pool and getting drunk. Matt/Jutty/Steve/Del. Via Con Dios Compardrais.
I live in Cromer and I think it's lovely. There's loads to do and the night lifes good you just gotta know where to look!!! It has a wicked carnival too!
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