Rough conditions are hampering the search for a man missing at Surfers Point in Prevelly, Western Australia.

The surfer aged in his 40s was seen struggling in the water by another surfer in the water at about 4.35pm on Friday.

A police statement said "due to rough conditions he was unable to be helped".

Police and emergency services were sent to the area and a preliminary search of the water and beach area was undertaken.

"Police and other emergency services, including local marine rescue and jetskis are continuing the search today," the police statement said.

At about midday, the search was halted due to rough conditions.

Joey Rawson from the Bureau of Meteorology said yesterday's conditions were keenly sought by surfers.

"The swell was about 3.8 metres, light offshore winds," the senior meteorologist said. 

"That swell close to four metres is big waves, towers of waves coming through and crashing onto shore."

Today's swell has dropped to about 2.5 metres, but north-westerly winds are picking up and conditions are expected to be choppy for the remainder of the day.

The road to the beach has reopened, but police have asked members of the public to avoid the area.

The break is known internationally as one of the locations for the Margaret River Pro.

In 2022, WA surfing stalwart Frank Hayter died in a surfing accident at the location.