Surfers braved the cold at Sandon Point and Cowries, near Shellharbour, where the waves impressed most while bomboras - offshore reefs - off northern beaches also produced great surfing conditions for those prepared to head further out.

However, plenty of boards were snapped in the powerful white water.

There were reports of 6m waves 2km offshore at Depot Beach, Batemans Bay, while waves on the shore were up to 4m in the morning before dropping to 3m in the afternoon.

Jason Gava, of Sandon Point Board Riders, said waves at Sandon Point were "pushing a little bit wide" but there were some "big take offs".

Simon Tognetti, brother of well known violinist Richard, was one of the many surfers taking advantage of the conditions.

Weatherzone head meteorologist Matt Pearce said a low pressure system in the Tasman Sea and south to south-easterly winds on its western side were pushing the swell onto the NSW coast.

The surf reached its peak yesterday morning and quieter conditions are expected.

See more pictures of the region's spectacular surf in Thursday's Mercury.