Expert-verified surf spot database with detailed swell/wind parameters, hazards, and travel information
Uluwatu is Bali's most famous wave, a long, walling left-hander that breaks over a shallow reef at the base of dramatic limestone cliffs. The wave offers multiple sections—from the Outside Corner through Temples, the Racetrack, and finally the Inside—allowing for rides of 100+ meters on a good day. The trade winds blow offshore here during the dry season (April-October), creating perfect glassy conditions most mornings. Entry and exit are via a cave in the cliff face, adding to the adventure. The surrounding clifftop temples and warungs make it a complete surf experience.
🏛️ Legendary Bali left • Cave paddle-out • Multiple sections to mix
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-230°.
Ideal size: 2.3m. Too small below 1m, too big (closeout) above 3.5m.
Needs at least 10s period. Ideal: 16s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 110° (ESE). Offshore range: 70°-150°. Best window: morning.
Dry season only. Wet season has onshore winds.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🦔 Urchins, 👥 Crowded, 🚶 Difficult access
Cave entry/exit. Wear booties. Long paddle if you miss the cave.
Swell direction must be within the workable range AND within the spot's coastal orientation. A south-facing beach cannot receive north swells, no matter the size or period.
Offshore wind (blowing from land toward ocean) grooms the wave face. Onshore wind (blowing from ocean toward land) destroys wave quality. Wind tolerance varies by wave type.
Cloudbreak is a world-renowned left-hander that breaks over a pristine coral reef in the open ocean off Fiji's Tavarua Island. The wave can handle virtually any size—from fun 4-footers to triple-overhead bombs—and delivers long, makeable barrels across multiple sections. When large S-SW swells arrive during the May-October season, Cloudbreak transforms into one of the world's most powerful waves. Access is by boat only, keeping crowds manageable despite its fame. The warm, crystal-clear water and consistent trade winds make this a bucket-list destination.
🌊 Fiji perfection • Boat-access barrels • Handles any size
Works best with swells from 210° (SSW). Workable range: 170°-240°.
Ideal size: 3.6m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 6m.
Needs at least 12s period. Ideal: 18s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 100° (E). Offshore range: 60°-140°. Best window: morning.
🪸 Sharp reef, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🦈 Sharks, 🏝️ Remote
World-class but dangerous. Sharp reef, shark activity.
Unknown minutes drive from NAN airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
Snapper Rocks is the starting point of Australia's legendary Superbank—an artificial sand formation that can create rideable waves stretching over 2 kilometers to Kirra. The right-hand point break produces machine-like barrels and long, rippable walls that have made it the heart of Gold Coast competitive surfing. Cyclone swells from February to May deliver the best conditions, but the wave works year-round. The downside is crowds—Snapper is one of the most crowded waves in Australia, requiring patience and wave selection skills.
🦘 Superbank starting point • 2km rides possible • Gold Coast icon
Works best with swells from 120° (ESE). Workable range: 70°-145°.
Ideal size: 1.6m. Too small below 0.8m, too big (closeout) above 2.5m.
Needs at least 8s period. Ideal: 14s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 240° (WSW). Offshore range: 190°-260°. Best window: morning.
Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Works year-round. Cyclone swells Jan-Mar.
Very crowded. Respect the lineup. Strong currents.
G-Land (Grajagan) is one of surfing's most revered lefts, hidden in the jungles of Java's remote Alas Purwo National Park. The wave offers multiple world-class sections—from the long walls of Kongs through the barrels of Money Trees, the speed of Launching Pads, down to the intense tubes of Speedies and Tiger Tracks. During the dry season, SE trade winds blow perfectly offshore, grooming these Indonesian gems to perfection. Access is via boat from Bali, and surfers stay at rustic jungle camps where the roar of waves mingles with the sounds of the rainforest. This is raw surfing adventure at its finest.
🌴 Jungle perfection • Multiple world-class sections • Seven Ghosts await
Works best with swells from 210° (SSW). Workable range: 190°-240°.
Ideal size: 3.0m. Too small below 1.5m, too big (closeout) above 4.5m.
Offshore wind from 110° (ESE). Offshore range: 80°-150°. Best window: morning.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🦈 Sharks, 🏝️ Remote, 🚶 Difficult access
Unknown minutes drive from SUB airport. Requires boat access ($150/day).
Teahupo'o is surfing's most feared and respected wave—a mutant left-hand slab that detonates over an impossibly shallow reef on Tahiti's southern coast. When S-SW swells push through the deep-water pass, they hit the reef shelf and transform into some of the thickest, heaviest barrels on the planet. The wave doesn't just break—it explodes, throwing cavernous tubes that seem to defy physics. Site of the 2024 Paris Olympics surf event, Teahupo'o represents the ultimate test: equal parts beauty and brutality. The French Polynesian setting, with lush green mountains rising behind crystal-clear lagoons, makes it as visually stunning as it is terrifying.
💀 The heaviest wave on Earth • Olympic venue 2024 • Where legends are made
Ideal size: 2.5m. Too small below 1m, too big (closeout) above 4m.
Needs at least 14s period. Ideal: 20s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 70° (ENE). Offshore range: 30°-110°. Best window: morning.
🪸 Sharp reef, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, ⚠️ Shallow, 🏝️ Remote
Heaviest wave on Earth. Experts only. Boat access.
Raglan is New Zealand's most celebrated surf destination, a series of volcanic point breaks that peel along black sand beaches on the North Island's rugged west coast. The main breaks—Manu Bay, Whale Bay, and Indicators—offer some of the longest rides in the Southern Hemisphere when SW groundswells wrap into the harbour. Manu Bay is famous for mechanical lefts that can run for 300+ meters. The town itself is a quintessential surf village with strong creative and alternative culture. Cold water and wild weather are part of the deal, but so are empty lineups, epic scenery, and genuine Kiwi hospitality.
🥝 New Zealand's finest • Black sand point breaks • 300m rides
Works best with swells from 235° (SW). Workable range: 210°-280°.
Ideal size: 1.9m. Too small below 0.8m, too big (closeout) above 3m.
Needs at least 10s period. Ideal: 15s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 120° (ESE). Offshore range: 80°-160°. Best window: both.
Primary: SW groundswell. Secondary: NW swells.
Rocks at Manu Bay. Gets crowded when good.
Bells Beach is Australian surfing's spiritual home—a powerful right-hand point break carved into the dramatic sandstone cliffs of Victoria's Great Ocean Road. Home to the world's longest-running professional surf contest (since 1962), Bells delivers cold-water power in the form of long, bowling walls that demand committed rail surfing. The famous "Ring the Bell" trophy ceremony and the clifftop amphitheater atmosphere make competition days electric. When autumn and winter groundswells from the Southern Ocean combine with rare northerly winds, Bells transforms into one of the world's premier right-handers.
🔔 Where they ring the bell • Australia's competitive soul • Cold water power
Works best with swells from 220° (SW). Workable range: 190°-260°.
Needs at least 12s period. Ideal: 16s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 0° (N). Offshore range: 315°-45°. Best window: morning.
Cold water. Shark activity. Strong currents.
Padang Padang is Bali's version of Pipeline—a short, violent, left-hand barrel that explodes over a dangerously shallow reef. Unlike Uluwatu which works on small swells, Padang needs solid 6-foot+ surf to break properly. When it does, it produces some of the most photogenic tubes in Indonesia: thick, round barrels spitting in front of a clifftop temple. The takeoff is critical, the bottom is shallow, and the crowd is intense. Access is via a set of stone steps that wind through a narrow gap in the cliffs. The annual Padang Padang Cup showcases the wave's world-class potential.
🙏 Balinese Pipeline • Temple backdrop perfection • When it's on, it's ON
Ideal size: 2.5m. Too small below 1.5m, too big (closeout) above 3.5m.
Very shallow. Only breaks on bigger swells.
HT's (Hollow Trees, named for the casuarina trees on shore) is the Mentawai Islands' most famous right-hander—a long, mechanical barrel that peels down a pristine coral reef on Lance's Island. The wave offers everything from rippable walls on smaller days to death-defying tubes when it maxes out. Unlike some Mentawai breaks, HT's is remarkably consistent and handles a wide range of swell sizes. The takeoff is predictable, the barrels are forgiving by Indo standards, and the channel makes paddling out relatively easy. Many consider it the best all-round wave in the Mentawais.
🌴 Mentawai masterpiece • The right everyone wants • Hollow perfection
Offshore wind from 90° (E). Offshore range: 50°-130°. Best window: morning.
Remote. Boat access only. Reef cuts common.
Unknown minutes drive from PDG airport. Requires boat access ($150/day).
Bondi Beach is Australia's most iconic beach—a crescent of golden sand flanked by sandstone headlands that has defined Australian beach culture for over a century. The surf is a fun, forgiving beach break that offers something for everyone: mushy peaks for beginners, occasional punchy barrels on the south end, and consistent waves year-round. Don't expect perfection—expect crowds, strong rips, and a carnival atmosphere that makes it worth visiting anyway. The Bondi to Bronte coastal walk, the famous Icebergs pool, and world-class cafes make this a complete Sydney experience.
🇦🇺 Australia's most famous beach • Surf culture ground zero • Beginners welcome
Works best with swells from 160° (SSE). Workable range: 90°-175°.
Ideal size: 1.3m. Too small below 0.6m, too big (closeout) above 2m.
Needs at least 8s period. Ideal: 12s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 315° (NW). Offshore range: 270°-360°. Best window: morning.
Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Works year-round. Summer NE sea breezes.
Very crowded. Strong rips, swim between flags.
Margaret River is Western Australia's undisputed wave capital—a stretch of rugged coastline where powerful Indian Ocean swells meet a minefield of world-class reef breaks. The main break offers everything from punchy walls to heavy barrels, while nearby The Box delivers one of Australia's most terrifying slabs. North Point adds a long, perfect left to the mix. The region is also renowned for great white shark activity, adding genuine menace to sessions. Cold, raw, and wild, Margs rewards surfers willing to venture beyond the Bali comfort zone.
🦈 Indian Ocean power • Multiple world-class breaks • Bring your shark shields
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 195°-280°.
Ideal size: 3.0m. Too small below 1m, too big (closeout) above 5m.
Needs at least 12s period. Ideal: 15s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 90° (E). Offshore range: 45°-135°. Best window: morning.
High shark activity. Cold water. Remote spots.
Jeffreys Bay is surfing's ultimate right-hand point break—a legendary sand-bottomed wave that spirals down a long bay on South Africa's Eastern Cape. The wave connects multiple sections: Boneyards, Supertubes, Impossibles, Tubes, The Point, and Albatross, with rides of 300+ meters on perfect days. Supertubes is the crown jewel—a flawless barrel machine that has hosted elite competition since the 1970s. Winter brings consistent Antarctic groundswells and offshore "Berg" winds that groom the wave to perfection. The water is cold, the locals are proud, and the potential for unforgettable tubes is unmatched.
🇿🇦 World's best right • Supertubes to Impossibles • Berg wind perfection
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-225°.
Ideal size: 2.6m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 4m.
Offshore wind from 290° (WNW). Offshore range: 250°-330°. Best window: morning.
Winter swells from Antarctic. Berg winds offshore.
🦈 Sharks, 🪸 Sharp reef, 👊 Localism, 👥 Crowded
Cold water. Known shark activity. Heavy localism at Supers.
Skeleton Bay is one of surfing's most alien landscapes—a sand-bottomed left point in the remote Namibian desert that produces the longest tube rides ever documented. When massive SW swells from the South Atlantic align with rare offshore winds, the wave can barrel for over a kilometer, with individual tubes lasting 20+ seconds. The Skeleton Coast is named for the whale bones and shipwrecks that litter its shores; it's harsh, isolated, and almost lunar in its barrenness. The walk back up the point after each wave is brutal. Getting it perfect requires luck, planning, and a willingness to wait. When it aligns, nothing else compares.
💀 Longest barrels on Earth • Desert dreamland • Minutes inside the tube
Works best with swells from 240° (WSW). Workable range: 220°-270°.
Ideal size: 3.8m. Too small below 2.5m, too big (closeout) above 5m.
Needs at least 14s period. Ideal: 18s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 70° (ENE). Offshore range: 45°-110°. Best window: morning.
Very fickle. Needs big SW swell + E wind alignment.
🏝️ Remote, 🌀 Strong rips, 🚶 Difficult access
Extremely remote. Strongest currents imaginable. Long walk back.
Mundaka is Europe's most celebrated barrel—a left-hand rivermouth sand point in the Basque Country that delivers incredibly long, hollow tubes when conditions align. The wave peels along a sandbar shaped by the Urdaibai River estuary, with rides of up to 400 meters possible on epic days. The setting is stunning: a medieval Basque fishing village on the hillside, green mountains behind, and cold North Atlantic swells marching in. The wave is notoriously fickle and crowded, but when Mundaka turns on, it rivals any wave on Earth for length and barrel quality. Bring a thick wetsuit.
🌊 Europe's best barrel • Medieval Basque village • 400m of tube time
Works best with swells from 310° (NW). Workable range: 290°-340°.
Offshore wind from 190° (S). Offshore range: 150°-230°. Best window: both.
North Atlantic winter storms. Best Oct-Feb.
Strong rivermouth currents. Very crowded when good.
Kirra is Australian surfing's most storied barrel—a right-hand sand-bottom point that has produced some of the country's most iconic waves when the sand aligns correctly. As the finishing section of the Superbank sand system (which starts at Snapper), Kirra can deliver thick, grinding tubes that connect for hundreds of meters. The barrel shape is perfect: round, spitting, and fast. Unfortunately, decades of dredging and sand politics have made classic Kirra sessions rare. But when cyclone swells push SE and the sand is configured right, Kirra reminds everyone why it was once considered Australia's best wave.
🏆 Australia's barrel queen • Superbank's finishing move • Sand politics drama
Works best with swells from 115° (ESE). Workable range: 80°-145°.
Ideal size: 2.1m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 3m.
Offshore wind from 230° (SW). Offshore range: 190°-270°. Best window: morning.
Winter E-SE swells are prime when the sand is right. Cyclone swells Jan-Mar can produce rare classic days.
Very crowded. Heavy local crew. Strong currents on bigger swells.
Burleigh Heads is the Gold Coast's most intense wave—a powerful right-hand point that breaks over a boulder-strewn headland, producing thick barrels and high-performance walls. Unlike the sand-bottom points to the south, Burleigh has more grunt and handles bigger swells. The takeoff is critical, the inside section is shallow, and the local crew is one of Australia's most notorious. The setting is beautiful: a national park headland, pandanus trees, and perfect morning glass when conditions align. It's a proving ground for Queensland's best surfers.
💪 Gold Coast power • Boulder point perfection • Don't drop in on the locals
Works best with swells from 155° (SSE). Workable range: 120°-190°.
Ideal size: 2.0m. Too small below 1m, too big (closeout) above 3m.
Needs at least 9s period. Ideal: 14s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 240° (WSW). Offshore range: 200°-270°. Best window: morning.
Winter best. Handles bigger swells than other Gold Coast spots.
🪨 Rocks, 👥 Crowded, 👊 Localism, 🦈 Sharks, 🌀 Strong rips
Rocky entry/exit. Very crowded. Strong rips on bigger days.
Noosa First Point is Australia's longboarding mecca—a sequence of five points that produce some of the longest, most perfect right-hand peelers in the country when the rare NE swells arrive. The wave walls up gently and runs for hundreds of meters, allowing for elegant nose-riding and stylish surfing that's become Noosa's signature. The national park headland creates a stunning amphitheater, and the vibe is surprisingly mellow despite extreme crowds. Noosa is fickle—it needs specific swell direction—but when cyclones push NE energy down the coast, it becomes world-class.
🏄 Longboard paradise • Five points of perfection • Nose-riding nirvana
Works best with swells from 70° (ENE). Workable range: 45°-120°.
Offshore wind from 180° (S). Offshore range: 135°-225°. Best window: morning.
Needs cyclone swells or NE-E fetch. Very inconsistent but world-class when on.
Extremely crowded. Longboard mecca. Very competitive lineup.
Lennox Head is one of Australia's most revered points—a long, bending right-hander that peels along a basalt boulder headland in northern NSW. When clean SE swells combine with SW winds, Lennox produces perfect walls and barrel sections that can run for over a kilometer. The wave is powerful, the rocks are real, and the local crew is tight. The headland offers a spectacular vantage point for watching sets roll in. This is genuine world-class point surfing in a beautiful setting, with all the challenges—crowds, localism, difficulty—that come with elite waves.
🔥 Northern NSW's jewel • Kilometer-long dreams • Earn your waves
Works best with swells from 135° (SE). Workable range: 100°-170°.
Needs at least 10s period. Ideal: 14s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 225° (SW). Offshore range: 180°-270°. Best window: morning.
Winter SE swells. One of the best points in Australia.
🪨 Rocks, 👥 Crowded, 👊 Localism, 🪸 Sharp reef
Slippery rock entry. Tight local crew. Very crowded on good days.
The Pass is Byron Bay's crown jewel—a long, winding right-hand point that embodies the region's laid-back surf culture. The wave is forgiving and fun, wrapping around the headland below the famous lighthouse, occasionally connecting all the way to Clarks Beach on bigger swells. It's a longboarder's paradise and a gathering place for the eclectic Byron community. Sunrise sessions with dolphins and the smell of the rainforest are part of the magic. Don't expect perfection—expect crowds, good vibes, and one of Australia's most beloved wave-riding experiences.
✨ Byron's soul • Longboard paradise • Sunrise with dolphins
Works best with swells from 70° (ENE). Workable range: 45°-135°.
Ideal size: 1.6m. Too small below 0.6m, too big (closeout) above 2.5m.
Offshore wind from 200° (SSW). Offshore range: 135°-247°. Best window: morning.
Works year-round. Autumn best for cleaner conditions.
Extremely crowded. Longboard-heavy lineup. Rips on bigger days.
Angourie Point is a historic right-hand point break that helped birth Australian shortboard surfing in the 1960s. The wave breaks over a basalt reef into a deep channel, producing long, workable walls with occasional barrel sections when NE swells push in. The famous "Blue Pool"—a natural ocean pool carved into the rocks—sits at the base of the point. Angourie has a quiet, old-school feel compared to the circus further north, though the local crew takes the lineup seriously. It's a piece of Australian surf history still delivering quality waves.
📜 Where Aussie shortboarding began • Blue Pool backdrop • Old-school soul
Works best with swells from 70° (ENE). Workable range: 45°-140°.
Winter SE swells best. ENE swells produce more hollow waves.
🪨 Rocks, 🦈 Sharks, 👊 Localism, 👥 Crowded
Rocky reef. Known shark activity. Strong local crew.
Surf-forecast/Surf Atlas cross-reference
North Narrabeen is Sydney's premier beach break—a long stretch of sand where lagoon run-off creates ever-shifting sandbanks that produce world-class lefts on their day. The northern corner is famous for long, peeling waves that have nurtured generations of Australian surfers, from Mark Occhilupo to Matt Wilkinson. The sand moves constantly, rewarding local knowledge and patience. When autumn NE swells combine with NW winds, Narrabeen delivers some of the best beach break waves in Australia.
🌊 Sydney's best beachie • Sandbar roulette • Where pros are made
Autumn best. Sand shifts constantly - rewards local knowledge.
Strong rips. Gets crowded. Sand constantly shifting.
The Box is one of the most feared waves on Earth—a mutant right-hand slab that produces square-shaped barrels of terrifying intensity over a barely submerged reef shelf. When solid SW swells wrap into the Margaret River region, The Box jacks up and throws over almost dry reef, creating a wave that's less surfed than survived. Wipeouts are catastrophic, injuries are common, and respect is mandatory. It's a testing ground for the world's best slab riders and a place most surfers are content to watch from the cliff.
⚠️ Australia's heaviest slab • Square barrels of doom • Helmets mandatory
Works best with swells from 220° (SW). Workable range: 190°-240°.
Winter swells from Roaring Forties. Extremely dangerous slab.
⚠️ Shallow, 🪸 Sharp reef, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🦈 Sharks, 🏝️ Remote
One of the most dangerous waves on Earth. Shallow reef, hideous wipeouts.
North Point is Margaret River's big wave venue—a long, powerful right-hander that handles massive swells when other spots close out. The wave breaks over a shallow reef shelf, producing long, grinding barrels and open faces that allow for committed turns on waves well overhead. When the swell is 6-8 feet at Main Break, North Point is just getting started. The isolated location, cold water, and ever-present shark threat add menace to already serious conditions. This is where West Oz chargers come to test their limits.
🌊 When Margs is too small • Big wave testing ground • Serious sharks, serious waves
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 190°-260°.
Ideal size: 4.0m. Too small below 2m, too big (closeout) above 6m.
Offshore wind from 75° (ENE). Offshore range: 45°-120°. Best window: morning.
Big wave spot. Needs substantial SW swell to work.
🦈 Sharks, 🪨 Rocks, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote
Heavy wave. High shark activity. Cold water.
Strickland Bay is Rottnest Island's premier wave—a quality left-hander that breaks along a limestone reef shelf off Western Australia's quokka-inhabited island paradise. The wave offers long walls with occasional barrel sections, working through a wide range of swell sizes. Access is via a 25-minute ferry from Fremantle, and there are no cars on the island—you bike, walk, or catch the bus. The isolation from the mainland, clear water, and lack of crowds (by Perth standards) make Strickland a special escape. Watch for sharks and quokkas.
🦘 Island escape • Quokka paradise • Ferry to perfection
Works best with swells from 215° (SW). Workable range: 190°-250°.
Needs at least 12s period. Ideal: 14s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 45° (NE). Offshore range: 0°-90°. Best window: morning.
🦈 Sharks, 🪨 Rocks, 👥 Crowded, 🚶 Difficult access
High shark activity. No cars - bike or bus access only.
Unknown minutes drive from PER airport. Requires boat access ($50/day).
Ferry from Perth/Fremantle. No cars on island - bike or bus.
Shipstern Bluff is one of the most terrifying waves on the planet—a Tasmanian slab famous for its mutant "steps" that form mid-face as the wave throws over a shallow reef ledge. Located at the end of a remote Tasman Peninsula, Shipstern requires either a 2-hour hike through rugged national park or a long jet-ski ride through great white shark territory. The wave is cold, isolated, unpredictable, and thoroughly hostile to human beings. Yet the barrels are other-worldly. This is big wave surfing at its most raw and unforgiving.
👹 The infamous steps • Tasmania's cold-water demon • Big wave surfing's final frontier
This is a big wave break, breaking right.
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 170°-220°.
Ideal size: 5.3m. Too small below 2.5m, too big (closeout) above 8m.
Offshore wind from 0° (N). Offshore range: 300°-45°. Best window: morning.
Winter big wave season. Antarctic storm swells.
🦈 Sharks, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote, ⚠️ Shallow, 🚶 Difficult access
One of the most dangerous waves on Earth. Great white sharks prevalent. 2hr hike or jet ski access only.
90 minutes drive from HBA airport. Requires boat access ($300/day).
No road access. ~90min drive from Hobart to the Stormlea trailhead, then a 2hr hike each way through Tasman National Park — or a 30km jet ski/boat ride.
Piha is New Zealand's most iconic surf beach—a dramatic sweep of black iron sand framed by the distinctive Lion Rock formation on Auckland's wild west coast. The beach produces quality peaks up and down its length, with the northern end often offering the most consistent waves. Piha is raw and beautiful: native bush tumbling down steep hillsides, powerful rips (it's NZ's most rescued beach), and consistent swells from the Tasman Sea. The 45-minute drive from Auckland makes it an accessible escape that feels worlds away from the city.
🦁 Lion Rock landmark • Black sand drama • Auckland's wild escape
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 180°-270°.
Autumn best. Year-round swell. Iconic Lion Rock.
Very strong rips - most rescued beach in NZ. Black iron-sand.
Restaurants is Fiji's hidden gem—a perfect left-hand tube that serves as the go-to alternative when Cloudbreak gets too intense. Named after the resort restaurant overlooking it, the wave offers flawless, mechanical barrels over a friendly reef at a manageable size. The takeoff is forgiving, the tubes are predictable, and the paddle-out is easy via a deep channel. When Cloudbreak is maxing or the wind is wrong, Restaurants often provides perfect conditions. It's considered one of the top 10 waves in the world by those lucky enough to surf it.
🍽️ Cloudbreak's friendly sister • Perfect tubes • Fiji's best-kept secret
Works best with swells from 210° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-240°.
Ideal size: 1.8m. Too small below 1m, too big (closeout) above 2.5m.
SW swell season. Trade winds offshore. Cloudbreak's little brother.
Sharp reef. Rarely crowded. Boat access only.
Unknown minutes drive from NAN airport. Requires boat access ($150/day).
Namotu Island/Surf-forecast cross-reference
Boat from Denarau or stay at Tavarua/Namotu.
Namotu Lefts is one of Fiji's most consistent high-performance waves—a hollow left-hander that breaks right in front of the Namotu Island Resort. The wave produces powerful, roping barrels that can handle swell up to 15 feet, offering world-class tubes on a more predictable platform than Cloudbreak. The reef is user-friendly, the channel is deep, and the position allows for early morning perfection before the trades kick in. If you're staying at Namotu, this is your backyard—and what a backyard it is.
🏝️ Resort doorstep barrels • Fiji's most consistent left • 15ft tubes possible
Works best with swells from 210° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-250°.
Year-round but best in SW swell season. Consistent.
Stay at Namotu Island Resort or boat access.
Frigates is Fiji's Coral Coast answer to Cloudbreak—a heavy left-hand barrel that breaks over a mushroom-shaped reef in the remote Kadavu Passage. The wave is powerful and hollow, with a deep takeoff zone and a challenging mushroom section that can double up and throw. The 40-60 minute boat ride from Waidroka Bay keeps crowds minimal, making Frigates one of the least surfed world-class waves in Fiji. When it's on, it delivers the kind of empty barrels you dream about.
🍄 Fiji's empty secret • Mushroom reef mayhem • Hours from the crowds
Works best with swells from 220° (SW). Workable range: 190°-250°.
Ideal size: 3.1m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 5m.
Offshore wind from 90° (E). Offshore range: 60°-135°. Best window: morning.
SW swell season. Offshore in SE trades. Coral Coast's Cloudbreak.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🌀 Strong rips, 🏝️ Remote, 🦈 Sharks
Heavy barrel. Mushroom reef section at end. Deep takeoff zone. 40-60min boat ride.
Unknown minutes drive from SUV airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
Waidroka Resort/Surf-forecast cross-reference
Boat from Waidroka Bay Resort. 40-60 minute ride.
Duranbah (D-Bah) is the Gold Coast's swell magnet—an east-facing beach break that picks up energy when everywhere else is flat. The wave produces punchy A-frame peaks that offer fast, hollow barrels and high-performance walls ideal for airs. The Tweed River training wall creates a permanent sandbank setup, making D-Bah more consistent than other beach breaks. It's crowded, competitive, and a proving ground for young pros. When the points are small, D-Bah is often the best option for quality waves.
🧲 Gold Coast swell magnet • Punchy A-frames • Pro training ground
Works best with swells from 90° (E). Workable range: 60°-130°.
Offshore wind from 250° (WSW). Offshore range: 210°-290°. Best window: morning.
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
Year-round east-facing swell magnet. Often works when the Gold Coast points are too small.
🌀 Strong rips, 👥 Crowded, 👊 Localism, 🦈 Sharks
Strong rips. Very crowded. Next to Tweed River mouth - water quality after rain.
South Stradbroke (TOS - The Other Side) is the Gold Coast's secret weapon—a hollow A-frame beach break that requires a 350-meter paddle across the treacherous Seaway channel. The crossing deters crowds, leaving those brave enough to make it with world-class peaks and far fewer surfers than anywhere else on the coast. The sand formations produce perfect barrels on E swells. Watch for boats, strong currents, and the ever-present bull sharks in the channel. Worth the risk? The empty tubes say yes.
🦈 Paddle across the Seaway • Hollow A-frames • Less crowd, more sharks
Works best with swells from 90° (E). Workable range: 45°-135°.
Offshore wind from 270° (W). Offshore range: 230°-315°. Best window: morning.
Year-round. Protected from crowds by channel crossing.
🌀 Strong rips, 🦈 Sharks, 🚶 Difficult access
Intense paddle across Seaway channel with boats and sharks. Low tide deadly shallow.
350m paddle across Seaway from breakwall to breakwall. Dodging boats and rips.
Cylinders is North Stradbroke Island's premier point—a sand-covered reef that produces long, walling rights when strong NE-E swells wrap into Moreton Bay. The name says it all: when it's running on all cylinders, the wave peels for several hundred meters with barrel sections and rippable walls. Access requires a ferry from Cleveland plus a drive across the island. The local Straddie crew takes their wave seriously, so respect the hierarchy. When the angle is right, this is one of Queensland's best.
⚡ Running on all cylinders • Island right point • Ferry required
Works best with swells from 55° (NE). Workable range: 30°-100°.
Autumn best. Needs strong E angle swell. Very wind sensitive.
🪨 Rocks, 👥 Crowded, 👊 Localism, 🦈 Sharks
Intense localism. Respect the island crew. Sand-covered reef.
Ferry from Cleveland + drive across island.
Crescent Head is the quintessential Australian point break—a long, walling right that peels along a rocky headland for 400+ meters on its day. The wave is forgiving and Malibu-style, making it a longboarder's paradise and a classic introduction to point surfing. The town is a quiet coastal hamlet with genuine surf village charm. Crowds can be intense when it's good, but the wave is so long that everyone eventually gets their share. This is old-school Australian surfing at its finest.
🏄‍♂️ Classic Aussie malibu • 400m rides • Longboard perfection
Works best with swells from 110° (ESE). Workable range: 70°-150°.
Offshore wind from 270° (W). Offshore range: 225°-315°. Best window: morning.
Year-round. Classic Australian pointbreak experience.
Submerged rocks. Strong currents. Very crowded when on.
Shark Island is Sydney's most punishing wave—a right-hand slab that breaks over an almost-dry rock shelf, producing thick, heavy barrels of cartoonish proportions. The wave is mostly dominated by bodyboarders due to the shallow, square-shaped takeoff that makes standing up nearly suicidal. It only works for two hours either side of high tide, and even then, broken bones and backs are common. This is Sydney's gladiatorial arena: brutal, unforgiving, and spectacular to watch.
🩻 Broken bones guaranteed • Bodyboarder territory • Sydney's most brutal slab
Works best with swells from 135° (SE). Workable range: 90°-170°.
Offshore wind from 250° (WSW). Offshore range: 225°-315°. Best window: morning.
Autumn-winter. Only surfable 2hrs either side of high tide.
⚠️ Shallow, 🪸 Sharp reef, 🦔 Urchins, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs
Extremely shallow slab. Broken backs and bones. Mostly bodyboarders.
Ours (Cape Fear) is Sydney's most notorious wave—a heavy right-hand slab that breaks over shallow rock in front of dramatic sea cliffs in Bra Boys territory. Made famous by the documentary of the same name, Ours is as much about the tribal localism as the wave itself. The slab produces thick, ledging barrels that detonate just meters from the cliff face. Getting in requires jumping off rocks; getting out is harder. It's dangerous, localized, and unforgiving—but the barrels are undeniably world-class.
👊 Bra Boys territory • Cape Fear • Sydney's most localized slab
Ideal size: 3.5m. Too small below 2m, too big (closeout) above 5m.
Autumn-winter when Tasman lows deliver solid SE swells.
⚠️ Shallow, 🪨 Rocks, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🦈 Sharks, 👊 Localism
Australias scariest wave. Breaks in front of cliff. Bra Boys territory. Jet ski access recommended.
Jump off cliff to get out. Getting back in is harder.
Cactus is Australia's most remote quality surf zone—a collection of breaks at the edge of the Nullarbor Plain in South Australia, where the Southern Ocean delivers raw power to an isolated stretch of coastline. The main break is a hollow left that peels along a limestone reef, with nearby spots including the slab Supertubes. Getting here requires a 12-hour drive from Adelaide through desert scrub. The reward is empty lineups, powerful waves, and genuine wilderness surfing. Bring everything—nearest help is hours away.
🌵 Edge of the Nullarbor • 12 hours from civilization • Southern Ocean power
Ideal size: 2.3m. Too small below 1.5m, too big (closeout) above 3m.
Winter-spring. Remote Great Australian Bight. Southern Ocean power.
🦈 Sharks, 🪨 Rocks, 🏝️ Remote, 🚶 Difficult access
Extremely isolated. High shark activity. Nearest help 6+ hours away.
12 hours drive from Adelaide. Remote camping.
Tombstones (Tombies) is one of Australia's most serious waves—a long, freight-train left barrel that runs for 300-500 meters along a shallow reef at Gnaraloo Station in remote Western Australia. The wave is named for the tombstone-shaped rock formations on shore and is known for its triple-suck takeoff that requires precise positioning. The location requires a 150km dirt road drive from Carnarvon. Camping at the station puts you in the middle of nowhere with world-class barrels and plenty of sharks for company.
🪦 Freight train barrels • Triple-suck takeoff • Outback adventure
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 200°-260°.
Ideal size: 2.8m. Too small below 1.5m, too big (closeout) above 4m.
Offshore wind from 155° (SSE). Offshore range: 120°-190°. Best window: morning.
Best at season transitions. Sep-Nov and Mar-May.
🦈 Sharks, 🪨 Rocks, ⚠️ Shallow, 🏝️ Remote
World-class but dangerous. Shallow reef with ugly steps. Very remote.
Surfline/Gnaraloo Station cross-reference
150km dirt road from Carnarvon. Camping at station.
Wilkes Pass is Fiji's premier right-hander—a long, fast barrel that offers an alternative to the famous lefts around Tavarua. The wave breaks over a shallow reef pass and produces extended tube rides when S-SW swells combine with NE-NW winds (opposite to what the other breaks need). This makes Wilkes Pass valuable when the wind is wrong for Cloudbreak and Restaurants. The wave handles good size and delivers powerful, hollow sections.
➡️ Fiji's best right • When the wind's wrong elsewhere • Fast reef pass barrels
Offshore wind from 45° (NE). Offshore range: 315°-90°. Best window: morning.
Best Nov-Apr when trades are lighter. Year-round swell.
Sharp reef. Best at high tide. Boat access only.
Boat from Namotu, Tavarua, or mainland resorts.
Salani is Samoa's most accessible world-class wave—a reef setup that offers both right and left barrels in front of the friendly Salani Surf Resort on Upolu's south coast. The right produces hollow tubes at all sizes while the left delivers long, fast barrels. The South Pacific setting is stunning: crystal-clear water, coconut palms, and genuine Polynesian hospitality. SW swells provide consistent surf from April through November, and crowds are nearly nonexistent. Pure tropical perfection.
🇼🇸 Samoan paradise • Rights and lefts • Uncrowded perfection
Apr-Nov best for swell. Dec-Feb lighter winds. Shoulder months ideal.
Sharp coral reef. Rarely crowded. Very warm water.
Surf-forecast/World Surfaris cross-reference
Lagundri Bay (The Point, Nias) is one of the world's most celebrated right-hand barrels—a mechanical reef point that produces tube rides of up to 9 seconds when solid SW swells wrap into the bay. The 2004 earthquake actually improved the wave by lifting the reef, making it even hollower. The takeoff is vertical, the tube is cylindrical, and the rides are long. The setting on Nias Island is remote and culturally rich. Getting there requires effort, but the potential for perfect barrels makes it worth every mile.
🌋 Earthquake-improved • 9-second tubes • Indonesian legend
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 200°-270°.
Ideal size: 2.8m. Too small below 1m, too big (closeout) above 4.5m.
Offshore wind from 300° (WNW). Offshore range: 270°-340°. Best window: morning.
May-Oct dry season. 2004 earthquake improved the wave.
Shallow seaweed-covered reef. Vertical drops. Post-earthquake reef is shallower.
Surfer Today/Indonesian Surf Guide cross-reference
Fly to Gunungsitoli, drive to Sorake Beach.
Macaronis is the Mentawai Islands' most user-friendly world-class wave—a forgiving left that produces 4-6 second barrels followed by rippable walls, working in virtually any conditions. The reef is relatively deep and friendly, the wave handles all tides and even onshore wind, and the takeoff is predictable. The Macaronis Resort sits right in front of the break. When other Mentawai spots are too big, too small, or too windy, Macaronis usually delivers. It's the Mentawais' most reliable path to perfect barrels.
🍝 The consistent one • Works when others don't • User-friendly perfection
Offshore wind from 45° (NE). Offshore range: 0°-90°. Best window: both.
Most consistent wave in Mentawais. Works all tides, all sizes, handles wind.
Sharp reef. Works in onshore wind too. One of the most forgiving world-class waves.
Macaronis Resort/Indonesian Surf Guide cross-reference
Macaronis Resort or charter boat from Padang.
Greenbush is the Mentawai's heaviest square barrel—a shallow left slab that only works on the highest spring tides but produces some of the thickest tubes in Indonesia when it does. The wave has three powerful sections that connect into an intense, ledging barrel over sharp reef. Timing is everything: show up at new or full moon spring tides, and you might score the wave of your life. Miss the tide window, and it's flat or too shallow to surf. High risk, high reward.
🌙 Spring tide slabs • Square barrels • Timing is everything
Early season best when winds lighter. NEEDS high tide - new/full moon preferred.
⚠️ Shallow, 🪸 Sharp reef, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote
Extremely shallow reef. Only works on highest tides. Wipeouts are consequential.
Charter boat from Padang. Time for spring tides.
Desert Point is one of the longest, most perfect barrel rides on Earth—and one of the most fickle. When SW swells combine with low tide and offshore winds, this Lombok left produces 300-meter tubes with individual barrels lasting 20+ seconds. But it's a demanding wave: the reef is razor-sharp, the timing must be precise (high tide = flat), and getting it perfect is rare. When it turns on, Desert Point delivers the stuff of dreams—mechanical perfection over shallow coral, far from the Bali crowds.
🏜️ 20-second tubes • World's longest barrel • Fickle perfection
Works best with swells from 220° (SW). Workable range: 200°-250°.
Ideal size: 3.1m. Too small below 1.8m, too big (closeout) above 4.5m.
Dry season. Very fickle - needs big SW swell AND low tide. Dead flat at high tide.
⚠️ Shallow, 🪸 Sharp reef, 🦈 Sharks, 👥 Crowded, 🏝️ Remote
Ultra shallow, ultra fast, ultra gnarly. Razor-sharp reef. Wear a helmet.
Surfline/Indonesian Surf Guide cross-reference
Fast boat from Bali or drive through Lombok.
Impossibles earned its name because it's usually too fast to make—the wave races down a shallow reef so quickly that most sections close out before you can reach them. But with offshore wind holding the lip open, Impossibles transforms into Bali's longest ride: 400 meters from the top section all the way through to Bingin. The wave requires precise conditions and committed surfing. When it connects, it's one of Bali's greatest achievements.
💨 Usually too fast • 400m when it connects • Earned its name
Dry season. Unrideable without offshore wind - too fast. First peak mid-high, second peak low.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 👥 Crowded, 🌀 Strong rips
Very fast, very shallow. Needs offshore to hold sections open. Finger reefs make exit tricky.
Bali Surf Report/Indonesian Surf Guide cross-reference
Belharra is France's premier big wave—a deepwater reef 2.5 kilometers offshore from Saint-Jean-de-Luz that only wakes up during the most massive North Atlantic storms. The wave requires tow-in assistance and breaks maybe a handful of days per winter; some years it doesn't break at all. When it does, Belharra produces giant, powerful A-frames in the 40-60 foot range. The Basque Country setting and the rarity of rideable swells make a Belharra session a career highlight for Europe's big wave elite.
🇫🇷 France's giant • 2.5km offshore • Some winters stays silent
Works best with swells from 310° (NW). Workable range: 280°-340°.
Ideal size: 10.5m. Too small below 6m, too big (closeout) above 15m.
Needs at least 16s period. Ideal: 20s+ (long-period groundswell).
Handful of days per year. Some winters doesn't break at all.
Tow-in only. 2.5km offshore. Extreme hold-downs.
25 minutes drive from BIQ airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
Tow-in/jet ski required. 2.5km offshore.
Cortes Bank is surfing's most remote big wave venue—an underwater mountain rising from the seafloor 100 miles off the San Diego coast. When massive Pacific storms generate huge W-NW swells, waves break on the shallow reef at heights that rival anything on Earth: 70-100 foot faces have been documented. Getting there requires a major boat expedition and perfect weather windows. The wave breaks maybe 3 days per year. Cortes Bank represents big wave surfing at its most logistically extreme and potentially largest scale.
🚤 100 miles to nowhere • World's largest waves possible • 3 days per year
Works best with swells from 281° (W). Workable range: 270°-292°.
Ideal size: 20.6m. Too small below 18.3m, too big (closeout) above 22.9m.
Needs at least 18s period. Ideal: 20s+ (long-period groundswell).
Unknown minutes drive from SAN airport. Requires boat access ($2000/day).
Mullaghmore Head is Ireland's premier big wave slab—a terrifying left that combines Teahupo'o's thick lip with Shipstern's mutant steps to create one of Europe's most challenging waves. When massive North Atlantic swells wrap around the Irish headland, Mullaghmore produces ledging barrels in the 30-50 foot range that defy physics. The wave breaks close to shore, allowing dramatic spectating from the cliffs. Cold water, hostile weather, and serious consequences make this a proving ground for Europe's bravest.
☘️ Ireland's beast • Steps meet slabs • Inflatable vests mandatory
This is a big wave break, breaking left.
Works best with swells from 292° (WNW). Workable range: 270°-315°.
Ideal size: 9.1m. Too small below 3m, too big (closeout) above 15.2m.
Offshore wind from 168° (SSE). Offshore range: 123°-213°. Best window: morning.
Mavericks is Northern California's big wave proving ground—a cold, shark-infested, boulder-strewn reef off Half Moon Bay that produces some of North America's most dangerous surf. The wave breaks over a submerged rock field, creating an unpredictable playing surface that has claimed lives. When winter storms send massive NW swells down the coast, Mavericks holds waves in the 40-60 foot range. The competition here has become one of big wave surfing's most prestigious events. Paddle-in purists still consider it the ultimate test.
🐻 Northern California's monster • Boulder reef • Where legends test themselves
Works best with swells from 290° (WNW). Workable range: 270°-315°.
Ideal size: 12.9m. Too small below 7.6m, too big (closeout) above 18.3m.
Needs at least 16s period. Ideal: 18s+ (long-period groundswell).
Nazaré is where surfing's largest waves are ridden—a Portuguese beach break that produces mountainous surf thanks to the Nazaré Canyon, an underwater trench that amplifies Atlantic swells to terrifying heights. Waves of 80-100+ feet have been documented here, and the world record for largest wave surfed continues to be broken at this spot. The wave breaks on sand, making it marginally more forgiving than reef breaks, but the size, power, and chaos are beyond anything else on Earth. Tow-in required at size.
🏔️ World's largest waves • Canyon-amplified monsters • Record-breaking territory
This is a big wave break, breaking both.
Ideal size: 21.8m. Too small below 13.1m, too big (closeout) above 30.5m.
Teahupo'o CODE RED is the ultimate expression of the wave's power—a condition declared only twice in history (2011 and 2022) when enormous swells transform the already-heavy slab into something almost incomprehensible. At CODE RED size, Teahupo'o produces waves with lips 6+ feet thick that detonate over an impossibly shallow reef. The 2011 Code Red and 2022 Code Red events produced images that redefined what was considered possible. This is surfing at its absolute limit.
🚨 Twice in history • The heaviest wave imaginable • Beyond limits
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-220°.
Ideal size: 9.1m. Too small below 7.6m, too big (closeout) above 10.7m.
Offshore wind from 67° (ENE). Offshore range: 22°-112°. Best window: morning.
60 minutes drive from PPT airport. Requires boat access ($150/day).
Puerto Escondido is the "Mexican Pipeline"—a brutally powerful beach break on Oaxaca's Pacific coast that produces some of the heaviest closeout tubes outside of Pipeline itself. A deep offshore trench amplifies South Pacific swells, creating thick, grinding barrels over shallow sand. The wave is notoriously dangerous: hold-downs are severe, the closeouts are unforgiving, and the power is humbling. May through August delivers the biggest swells. The Zicatela strip offers cheap living, warm water, and world-class barrels for those brave enough.
🇲🇽 Mexican Pipeline • Closeout tubes of death • Heavy beach break power
Works best with swells from 185° (S). Workable range: 160°-220°.
Ideal size: 3.5m. Too small below 1m, too big (closeout) above 6m.
Peak season May-August. South Pacific swells + light offshore winds.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🌀 Strong rips, ⚠️ Shallow
Extremely powerful closeouts. Heavy hold-downs. Sand bottom but very shallow at low tide.
Aileens is Ireland's most dramatic big wave—a right-hand reef break that detonates beneath the famous 700-foot Cliffs of Moher on Ireland's west coast. The setting is almost unreal: massive Atlantic swells breaking in front of ancient sea cliffs with birds circling above. The wave rivals Jaws and Teahupo'o in power and requires a 2-mile paddle or jet ski access. When it's on, Aileens produces some of the most powerful waves in the Atlantic, with the added challenge of freezing water and hostile weather.
🦅 Beneath the Cliffs of Moher • 700ft backdrop • Atlantic power
Works best with swells from 280° (W). Workable range: 250°-310°.
Ideal size: 11.4m. Too small below 7.6m, too big (closeout) above 15.2m.
Needs at least 14s period. Ideal: 16s+ (long-period groundswell).
Riley's is the proving ground for Ireland's big wave chargers—a shallow, heavy slab that serves as training for the more serious Aileens nearby. The wave breaks over a dangerously shallow reef in Ballard Bay and requires a treacherous cliff trek to access. Often too shallow to surf safely, Riley's demands precise conditions and serious commitment. The cold Atlantic water and hostile Irish weather add to the challenge. This is where aspiring Irish big wave surfers cut their teeth.
🎓 Aileens training ground • Cliff trek access • Often too shallow
Works best with swells from 285° (WNW). Workable range: 250°-320°.
Fickle/rare. Needs specific swell angle and light winds.
⚠️ Shallow, 🪸 Sharp reef, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs
Punta de Lobos is Chile's crown jewel—a powerful left point break designated as a World Surfing Reserve that produces rides of 800+ meters when massive SW Pacific swells hit the coast. The wave handles enormous size and hosts stops on the Big Wave World Tour. The setting is stunning: rugged cliffs, cold upwelling water, and an endless parade of groundswell. Pichilemu town has built its identity around the wave. This is South America's most celebrated big wave venue.
🇨🇱 World Surfing Reserve • 800m rides • South America's finest
Offshore wind from 112° (ESE). Offshore range: 70°-150°. Best window: morning.
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Pedra Branca is surfing's final frontier—a tiny rock pinnacle 26km off the coast of Tasmania that faces directly toward Antarctica and catches the full force of Southern Ocean storms. First surfed in 2008, the wave breaks on a reef around the rock in ice-cold water saturated with great white sharks. Getting there requires a major jet-ski expedition and favorable weather windows. The wave is powerful, remote, and genuinely life-threatening. This is as far from civilization as surfing gets.
🇦🇶 Facing Antarctica • Great white territory • Final frontier
Offshore wind from 30° (NNE). Offshore range: 0°-60°. Best window: morning.
Rare Southern Ocean tow window. Autumn-winter is the main season.
Unknown minutes drive from HBA airport. Requires boat access ($1500/day).
No land access — a bare rock ~26km off Tasmania's south coast. Reached only by a long boat expedition from Hobart with mandatory jet-ski tow. Expert big-wave crews only.
Dungeons is South Africa's premier big wave spot—a powerful right-hand reef break near Hout Bay that hosts the Red Bull Big Wave Africa event. The wave produces double-up drops that funnel into fast, walling faces, testing even the best big wave surfers. Located in cold, shark-rich waters off Cape Town, Dungeons breaks infrequently but delivers serious size when SW winter swells hit the coast. The dramatic Table Mountain backdrop and the quality of the wave make it Africa's most respected big wave venue.
🇿🇦 Africa's big wave throne • Red Bull venue • Cold water power
Ideal size: 7.0m. Too small below 4m, too big (closeout) above 10m.
Winter swells. Infrequent but powerful when it breaks.
Great white sharks common in area. Heavy hold-downs.
30 minutes drive from CPT airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
Ghost Trees is Pebble Beach's secret big wave—a right-hand slab named for the white, ghostly Monterey Cypress trees that frame the break. The Carmel Canyon focuses swells to produce waves in the 40-60 foot range on rare winter days. The spot is controversial: jet-ski bans limit access, and the exclusive Pebble Beach community has mixed feelings about the surfers. When conditions align, Ghost Trees produces some of California's most photogenic big wave barrels.
👻 Ghostly cypress backdrop • Carmel Canyon power • Restricted access
Ideal size: 11.0m. Too small below 3.7m, too big (closeout) above 18.3m.
Offshore wind from 101° (E). Offshore range: 56°-146°. Best window: morning.
Todos Santos (Killers) is Mexico's answer to Jaws—a powerful right-hand point break on an island 8 miles off Ensenada that's been designated a World Surfing Reserve. An underwater canyon focuses swells to produce 40-60 foot waves that wall up and barrel. The wave is nicknamed "Killers" for good reason. Access requires a boat ride through often-rough conditions. When massive NW Pacific swells march down the coast in winter, Todos Santos delivers some of the best big wave surfing south of Mavericks.
💀 Mexican Jaws • World Surfing Reserve • Canyon-fueled giants
Ideal size: 12.2m. Too small below 6.1m, too big (closeout) above 18.3m.
90 minutes drive from TIJ airport. Requires boat access ($400/day).
Pico Alto is Peru's premier big wave—a deepwater reef 1.5km offshore from Punta Hermosa that produces some of South America's largest rideable waves. The unique geography means the wave almost never closes out, offering clean faces in the 40-60 foot range about 10 days per year. The 30-minute paddle out is challenging, but the reward is one of the most user-friendly big waves on the planet. Peru's consistent S-SW swells and cold upwelling water create ideal big wave conditions.
🇵🇪 Peru's giant • Never closes out • 30-min paddle
Ideal size: 7.9m. Too small below 3.7m, too big (closeout) above 12.2m.
El Quemao is the "Pipeline of Europe"—a thick, square-barreling left that breaks over ultra-sharp volcanic lava reef in La Santa, Lanzarote. The wave produces some of the heaviest tubes in the Atlantic, with a reputation for serious consequences over the brutal reef. Localism is extreme and deeply ingrained. The Canary Island setting offers warm water and consistent winter swells, but earning respect at El Quemao takes time and commitment. This is European barrel surfing at its most intense.
🌋 Pipeline of Europe • Lava reef carnage • Extreme localism
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 280°-350°.
Ideal size: 3.9m. Too small below 1.8m, too big (closeout) above 6.1m.
Offshore wind from 135° (SE). Offshore range: 90°-180°. Best window: morning.
Teahupo'o at regular size (6-12 feet) is surfing's ultimate barrel—the wave that sets the standard for hollow perfection. The horseshoe-shaped tube that forms over the living coral reef has no equal: perfectly round, impossibly thick, and detonating over reef that's sometimes only inches deep. The boat ride into the lagoon, the turquoise water, and the dramatic mountains make this one of surfing's most beautiful settings. From April through October, S-SW swells deliver consistent perfection.
🥇 World's best barrel • Horseshoe tubes • The standard for perfection
Works best with swells from 202° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-225°.
Ideal size: 3.0m. Too small below 1.5m, too big (closeout) above 4.6m.
Offshore wind from 56° (NE). Offshore range: 11°-101°. Best window: morning.
⚠️ Shallow, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🪸 Sharp reef
60 minutes drive from PPT airport. Requires boat access ($100/day).
Anchor Point is Morocco's legendary wave—a long, perfectly peeling right point in Taghazout that can deliver 500-meter rides when NW Atlantic swells hit the coast. The wave needs long-period groundswell and light offshore winds, but when conditions align, it produces some of Africa's finest surfing. The setting is exotic: ancient fishing village, goat herds on the cliffs, and warm Moroccan hospitality. Crowds are intense when it's working.
🇲🇦 Morocco's legend • 500m rides • African perfection
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 280°-340°.
Ideal size: 2.8m. Too small below 0.9m, too big (closeout) above 4.6m.
Chicama is officially the world's longest wave—a left-hand point break in Peru that can deliver rides of 2+ kilometers when all four sections connect. The wave peels along the desert coastline with mechanical precision, passing through sections named Malpaso, Keys, Point, and Outer Point. Full connections are rare but possible during optimal SW swells. The setting is stark and beautiful: Peruvian desert, cold Humboldt Current water, and endless walls of surf. This is surfing's marathon.
📏 World's longest wave • 2km+ possible • Four connecting sections
Works best with swells from 210° (SSW). Workable range: 200°-220°.
🌀 Strong rips, 👥 Crowded, 🚶 Difficult access
La Graviere is arguably the world's heaviest beachbreak—a freight-train of a wave that breaks with reef-like power over shifting sand banks in Hossegor, France. The Gouf de Capbreton submarine canyon focuses Atlantic swells directly at this stretch of beach, producing thick, dredging barrels that have humbled many pros. When it's on, the tubes are round and perfect, but the closeouts are savage and the paddle-outs punishing. This is where beachbreak surfing reaches its absolute ceiling.
🇫🇷 World's heaviest beachbreak • Canyon-amplified power • Pro-level tubes
Works best with swells from 295° (WNW). Workable range: 265°-330°.
Autumn (Sep-Nov) is prime. Offshore canyon focuses swell.
Extremely heavy closeouts. Strong rips when big.
Supertubos is Portugal's answer to Pipeline—a savage beachbreak that produces some of the heaviest barrels in Europe. The wave breaks over sand banks shaped by the Nazaré Canyon system, creating hollow, powerful tubes that have earned it a permanent spot on the WSL Championship Tour. Located on the Peniche peninsula, it picks up virtually any Atlantic swell and transforms it into throaty barrels. The takeoff is critical, the lip is thick, and the closeouts are unforgiving. Portuguese Pipeline indeed.
🇵🇹 Portuguese Pipeline • WSL Championship venue • Europe's heaviest tubes
Works best with swells from 260° (W). Workable range: 225°-315°.
Ideal size: 2.8m. Too small below 1.8m, too big (closeout) above 3.7m.
Bundoran Peak is Ireland's premier reef break—a horseshoe-shaped rock shelf that creates perfect A-frame peaks in the heart of County Donegal. The wave offers both left and right options, with the right being more hollow and the left longer and more workable. When North Atlantic swells march in and the winds swing offshore, Bundoran delivers world-class conditions in one of surfing's most rugged and beautiful settings. Cold water, emerald hills, and proper Irish hospitality await.
🇮🇪 Ireland's premier reef • A-frame peaks • Wild Atlantic Way
Works best with swells from 290° (WNW). Workable range: 260°-330°.
Ideal size: 1.8m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 2.4m.
Year-round Atlantic swells. Best autumn-winter.
Easkey Right is one of Ireland's most consistent and forgiving reef breaks—a long, peeling right-hander in County Sligo that handles everything from playful 3-footers to solid double-overhead swells. The wave breaks along a sharp, uneven reef shelf, offering multiple sections and the occasional barrel on the takeoff. It's a pilgrimage site for European surfers seeking quality point-style waves without the tropical crowds. Pack your 5/4mm wetsuit and embrace the Celtic chill.
🍀 Sligo's quality right • Handles solid size • Celtic perfection
Works best with swells from 305° (NW). Workable range: 270°-350°.
Ideal size: 2.9m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 4.6m.
Needs at least 11s period. Ideal: 14s+ (long-period groundswell).
Autumn-winter Atlantic swells. Best in big swells.
La Herradura is Lima's premier pointbreak—a long left-hander that breaks in a horseshoe-shaped bay in the Chorrillos district. When solid South swells hit, the wave connects through three distinct hollow sections, offering rides of several hundred meters. It's one of the few quality waves accessible from Peru's capital city, though it needs significant swell size to wake up. The setting is urban but the wave is world-class, and Lima's surf culture was largely born here.
🇵🇪 Lima's best point • Three hollow sections • Capital city waves
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 175°-225°.
Needs at least 14s period. Ideal: 17s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 337° (NNW). Offshore range: 292°-22°. Best window: morning.
Punta Rocas is Peru's most famous competition venue—a powerful reef break that has hosted national championships for decades. The wave produces thick, hollow barrels reminiscent of Hawaii's Rocky Point, breaking over a shallow reef shelf that demands respect. Located just south of Lima in San Bartolo, it's accessible but no less dangerous. The Peruvian surf scene cut its teeth here, and the wave continues to serve as the ultimate testing ground for local talent.
🏆 Peru's Rocky Point • Championship venue • Thick powerful tubes
Needs at least 13s period. Ideal: 14s+ (long-period groundswell).
⚠️ Shallow, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🪨 Rocks, 🪸 Sharp reef
El Gringo is Chile's most dangerous wave—a left-hand slab that breaks over an impossibly shallow rock shelf in Arica, earning it the nickname "Chilean Pipeline." The wave is so heavy and the reef so unforgiving that most professional surfers wear helmets here. When solid South swells light up this section of coast, El Gringo produces perfect, death-defying barrels for those brave enough to paddle out. This is the realm of big-wave hellmen only.
🇨🇱 Chilean Pipeline • Helmet required • Slab of death
Needs at least 15s period. Ideal: 17s+ (long-period groundswell).
Telescopes is a Mentawai gem—a long, wrapping left-hander that offers 200+ meter rides through multiple barrel sections. The wave starts with a steep, hollow drop before transitioning into workable shoulder sections that allow for endless speed generation. Located in North Sipora, it thrives on W-SW swells and the typical SE trade winds. It's one of the most user-friendly quality waves in the Mentawais, making it popular with intermediate-advanced surfers looking for tropical perfection.
🔭 200m Mentawai left • Barrel to shoulder • Trade wind perfection
Works best with swells from 247° (WSW). Workable range: 225°-270°.
Ideal size: 1.9m. Too small below 0.9m, too big (closeout) above 3m.
Offshore wind from 112° (ESE). Offshore range: 67°-157°. Best window: morning.
Unknown minutes drive from PDG airport. Requires boat access ($250/day).
Kandui Left holds the ominous title of "most dangerous wave in Indonesia"—a fast, hollow left-hander that breaks over a razor-sharp reef in the Playgrounds region of the Mentawais. The wave is unforgiving, pitching over extreme shallow reef and offering no safe exit on wipeouts. It must be surfed on fuller tides only, and even then, the consequences of mistakes are severe. For expert tube riders only, Kandui Left is simultaneously one of the most beautiful and terrifying waves on Earth.
☠️ Most dangerous in Indo • Low tide death • Expert barrels only
Rifles is pure Mentawai magic—a flawless right-hand barrel that can run for 200+ meters when the swell angle is dialed. The wave requires a precise South swell direction to connect all sections, and when it does, it's arguably the most perfect right-hander on Earth. The tube is round, the water is crystal clear, and the rides are seemingly endless. Located in the Playgrounds region of the Mentawais, Rifles is the crown jewel that boat charter dreams are made of.
🎯 200m flawless rights • Precision swell angle • Mentawai crown jewel
April-October. Precise south swell angle critical for long rides.
One Palm Point is an Indonesian legend—an 800-meter left-hand barrel located on remote Panaitan Island off the western tip of Java. Named for the single palm tree that marks the lineup, this wave is one of the longest and most perfect tubes in the world. Getting here requires a dedicated boat charter from Jakarta and a multi-day commitment, but for those who make the journey, the reward is mechanical perfection in complete isolation. This is surfing's ultimate treasure hunt.
🌴 800m perfect barrels • Single palm landmark • Java's hidden gem
Ideal size: 2.5m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 3.7m.
Unknown minutes drive from CGK airport. Requires boat access ($400/day).
Nias is one of the most perfect right-hand point breaks on Earth—a mechanical barrel machine in Lagundri Bay, off the coast of Sumatra. The surrounding hills funnel offshore winds into the bay, creating glass-like conditions that allow the wave to run for 200+ meters of spiraling perfection. The 2005 earthquake actually improved the wave by lifting the reef, making it even more hollow. This is Indonesia's answer to J-Bay, and many argue it's superior.
🇮🇩 World's perfect right • 200m barrels • Natural wind protection
30 minutes drive from GNS airport. Requires boat access ($150/day).
P-Pass (Palikir Pass) is perhaps the cleanest wave in the Pacific—a flawless right-hand barrel that breaks over pristine coral in Pohnpei, Micronesia. Getting here requires serious commitment: multiple flights to one of the most remote islands in the world, then a boat charter to the pass. But when North Pacific swells light up this reef, the tubes are beyond comprehension—crystal blue, perfectly cylindrical, and devoid of crowds. Only a handful of epic days occur each year, making this the ultimate pilgrimage.
🌊 Cleanest wave in Pacific • Flawless Micronesian tubes • Ultimate pilgrimage
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 315°-45°.
Unknown minutes drive from PNI airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
Swimming Pools is Fiji's premier high-performance right—a rippable wave that breaks over coral in crystal-clear water near Namotu Island. Unlike the heavy lefts that dominate this region (Cloudbreak, Restaurants), Swimming Pools offers a more forgiving canvas for progressive surfing. The water is so clear it looks like you're surfing in an aquarium. It's the perfect complement to a Fiji trip, offering playful sessions when the bigger waves become too challenging or the direction favors rights.
🏊 Fiji's best right • Crystal clear canvas • High-performance playground
Needs at least 7s period. Ideal: 9s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 45° (NE). Offshore range: 10°-80°. Best window: morning.
Tavarua Rights is the overlooked sibling to Cloudbreak—a 200-meter right-hand barrel that peels along the coral reef on the opposite side of Fiji's most famous wave. While Cloudbreak hogs the spotlight, Tavarua Rights offers excellent tubes in its own right, especially when the trade winds drop and conditions go glassy. The wave ranges from fun and playful to genuinely heavy depending on swell size. It's a reminder that this corner of Fiji delivers quality in both directions.
➡️ Cloudbreak's sibling • 200m rights • Fun to firing
Offshore wind from 22° (NNE). Offshore range: 337°-67°. Best window: morning.
Pasta Point is the crown jewel of Maldivian surfing—a long, multi-section left-hander in the North Male Atoll that's widely considered the best wave in the country. Access is exclusively controlled by the Cinnamon Dhonveli resort, limiting crowds to around 30 surfers per session. The wave offers 200+ meter rides through barrel and wall sections, all in bathwater-warm turquoise water. It's one of the few places on Earth where you're guaranteed quality waves with minimal crowds.
🇲🇻 Best left in Maldives • Resort exclusive • 30-surfer limit
Works best with swells from 195° (SSW). Workable range: 165°-225°.
Ideal size: 1.5m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 1.8m.
Unknown minutes drive from MLE airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
Cave Rock is Durban's heaviest wave—a powerful right-hander that breaks in two distinct sections: The Pool and The Rock. When solid Indian Ocean swells hit this stretch of coast, Cave Rock produces thick, hollow barrels that rival anything in South Africa. The wave has a dedicated local crew and a history of heavy sessions. Named for the famous rock formation and sea cave that marks the takeoff zone, this is Durban surfing at its most intense.
🇿🇦 Durban's heaviest • The Pool and The Rock • Indian Ocean power
Offshore wind from 292° (WNW). Offshore range: 247°-337°. Best window: morning.
Seal Point is where modern surf travel began—the wave that captivated the world in Bruce Brown's Endless Summer (1966). This long right-hand point break in Cape St. Francis once offered 150+ meter rides of pristine perfection. Unfortunately, harbour construction and sand dynamics have reportedly diminished its quality over the decades. But on rare days when everything aligns, you can still glimpse the magic that launched a thousand surf trips. A pilgrimage site for surf history buffs.
🎬 Endless Summer fame • Surf history icon • 150m legendary rights
Works best with swells from 160° (SSE). Workable range: 130°-200°.
Elands Bay is the jewel of South Africa's remote West Coast—a long, barreling left-hand point break that fires when big SW swells wrap around the Cape. The drive from Cape Town is long (3+ hours), and the conditions need to be just right, but when it's on, Elands offers 150+ meter rides through hollow, sand-bottomed perfection. The setting is stark and beautiful: dry West Coast fynbos, cold Atlantic water, and not a soul around. Classic South African adventure surfing.
💎 West Coast jewel • 150m barrels • Remote South Africa
Ideal size: 3.7m. Too small below 2.4m, too big (closeout) above 4.9m.
Needs at least 14s period. Ideal: 15s+ (long-period groundswell).
Superbank Maxing is the stuff of Gold Coast legend—when cyclone swells from the Coral Sea push the Superbank beyond its normal limits, connecting Snapper Rocks through Rainbow Bay, Greenmount, Coolangatta, and Kirra into a continuous 2+ kilometer ride. This happens perhaps 10-20 days per year, and when it does, up to 500 surfers descend on the lineup. It's chaotic, crowded, and absolutely magical. Timing a trip to score the Superbank maxing is surfing's ultimate lottery.
🌊 2km connected rides • Cyclone swells only • 500-surfer zoo
Ideal size: 2.4m. Too small below 1.8m, too big (closeout) above 3m.
10-20 maxing days/year. Needs cyclone swell + light winds.
Can get up to 500 surfers when maxing. Strong rips on big days.
Corrected to match Snapper Rocks verified data
Witch's Rock is Costa Rica's most famous wave—a perfect A-frame beach break inside Santa Rosa National Park that gained worldwide fame in Endless Summer II. Getting here requires either a boat trip or a rugged 4WD adventure through the park, adding to its mystique. The wave breaks in a stunning, pristine setting with dramatic rock formations and jungle backdrop. When Pacific swells pulse in, the peaks are hollow and perfectly formed. A bucket-list destination for adventure surfers.
🧙 Endless Summer II fame • Perfect A-frames • National park adventure
SW swell season April-Oct. Year-round waves.
Crocodiles in estuary. Remote location in Santa Rosa National Park.
Unknown minutes drive from LIR airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
Boat from Playas del Coco. Also accessible via 4WD through national park.
Playa Hermosa (Costa Rica) is one of Central America's most consistent and powerful beach breaks—a 7km stretch of black sand that catches virtually every Pacific swell. The waves here are heavy and hollow, breaking with surprising intensity over shifting sandbars. It's just south of Jaco, making it easily accessible from San Jose. The beach hosts WSL events and has produced some of Costa Rica's best surfers. Powerful, punchy, and always working—this is Costa Rica's reliable beachbreak.
🇨🇷 Most consistent break • Heavy hollow tubes • Black sand power
Rainy season = swell season. Best May-Oct.
Pavones is one of the longest left-hand point breaks in the world—a legendary wave in remote southern Costa Rica that can run for 800+ meters when conditions align. Getting here requires a serious commitment (6+ hour drive from San Jose on rough roads), but the payoff is tropical perfection with jungle-clad hills as your backdrop. The wave needs long-period SW swells to really connect, and when it does, you'll understand why people relocate their lives to this tiny village.
🏄 World's longest left • 800m+ rides • Jungle point perfection
Ideal size: 2.4m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 3.5m.
Long-period S-SW swells. Rainy season best.
6hr drive from San Jose. Last 2hrs rough road.
Salsa Brava translates to "angry sauce," and this Caribbean reef break lives up to its name - the heaviest wave in Costa Rica. When E-NE Caribbean swells hit during winter, Salsa Brava produces thick, powerful double-up barrels over sharp coral reef, with longer rights and occasional left tubes. The setting is tropical and beautiful, but the consequences of mistakes are real. The local Afro-Caribbean vibe of Puerto Viejo adds to the experience. This is Caribbean surfing at its most intense.
🌶️ Spiciest wave in CR • Caribbean barrels • Sharp reef power
Works best with swells from 55° (NE). Workable range: 20°-100°.
Offshore wind from 180° (S). Offshore range: 150°-225°. Best window: morning.
Caribbean swell season Dec-Mar. N-NE groundswells.
Popoyo is Nicaragua's flagship surf destination—a reef break that catches virtually every SW swell and offers multiple peaks to choose from. The setup is perfect for a surf trip: consistent waves, warm water, offshore morning winds, and a growing infrastructure of surf camps and restaurants. The reef produces both left and right options, with the outer reef getting heavier and hollower. This is where Central American surf trips often begin and end.
🇳🇮 Nicaragua's best • Multi-peak reef • Year-round consistency
SW swell season. Offshore winds most mornings.
Sharp reef with urchins. Booties recommended.
Colorados is Nicaragua's answer to boat-access exclusivity—a perfect beachbreak on a remote island that's only accessible via boat from Las Penitas. The resort setup keeps crowds to a minimum while delivering pristine A-frame peaks in warm Pacific water. When SW swells pulse in, the sandbars light up with hollow, punchy waves that rival anything in Central America. Bull sharks patrol these waters, adding an edge to the adventure. Remote perfection.
🏝️ Remote island perfection • Resort exclusive • Empty A-frames
Best in SW swell season. Boat access adds adventure.
Remote island setup. Bull sharks in area.
Unknown minutes drive from MGA airport. Requires boat access ($100/day).
Santa Catalina is Panama's premier surf destination—a long right-hand point break in a remote fishing village on the Pacific coast. The wave wraps around a rocky headland, offering multiple sections that can connect for rides of 200+ meters on the right swell. Getting here is an adventure (5+ hours from Panama City), but the sleepy village vibe, consistent waves, and proximity to Coiba National Park (world-class diving) make it worth the journey. Panama's best-kept surf secret.
🇵🇦 Panama's best wave • 200m rights • Remote fishing village
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-240°.
Rincon is the undisputed capital of Caribbean surfing—a legendary stretch of coast on Puerto Rico's western tip that lights up during winter NW swells. The area hosts multiple breaks (Domes, Maria's, Indicators, Tres Palmas) that cater to different skill levels and swell sizes. When big NW groundswells hit, Rincon can produce world-class waves rivaling Hawaii. The town has fully embraced surf culture, with a thriving scene of shops, restaurants, and accommodations. No passport needed for Americans.
🇵🇷 Caribbean surf capital • Winter NW swells • Multiple world-class breaks
Winter NW swells. Hurricane swells in autumn.
Shallow reef at low tide. Very crowded in winter.
Soup Bowl is widely considered the Caribbean's best wave—a powerful right-hand reef break on Barbados' rugged east coast. When NE groundswells hit this exposed section of coastline, Soup Bowl produces thick, barreling waves that have hosted WSL events. The setting is stunning: dramatic rock formations, palm trees, and the Bathsheba area's natural beauty. The reef is sharp and unforgiving, but the wave quality attracts top surfers from around the world. Caribbean surfing's crown jewel.
🥣 Caribbean's best wave • WSL-quality barrels • Bathsheba beauty
Works best with swells from 45° (NE). Workable range: 20°-90°.
NE groundswells in winter. Hurricane swells in autumn.
Sharp reef with urchins. Strong currents.
Killer Point is Anchor Point's big-wave sibling—a long right-hand point break that handles larger swells when Anchor maxes out. Named for the Orca sightings in the area (not the wave's danger level), Killer Point requires either a long paddle from Hash Point or a cliff descent to access. When big NW swells march in, the wave can hold double-overhead-plus and offers the longest rides in the Taghazout region. A Moroccan adventure for intermediate-advanced surfers.
🐋 Big-wave Morocco • Orca point • Handles overhead+
Needs bigger NW swells than Anchor Point.
Long paddle or cliff walk. Named for Orca sightings.
Walk down from cliff or paddle from Hash Point.
Boilers is Taghazout's barrel option—a hollow right-hand reef break named after the old shipwreck boiler visible on the reef. Unlike the point breaks nearby, Boilers offers a more critical, hollow takeoff that can produce genuine tubes on the right swell. It's shallower and more intense than Anchor Point, requiring more commitment and better timing. On smaller days it's fun and punchy; on bigger days it can be heavy and challenging. Morocco's tube fix.
🛢️ Morocco's barrel • Shipwreck reef • Hollow right tubes
Works best with swells from 320° (NW). Workable range: 290°-350°.
Shallow reef at low tide. Breaks next to old boiler wreck.
N'Gor Right is West Africa's premier surf destination—a quality right-hand point break in Dakar, Senegal that catches the same North Atlantic swells as Morocco but with warmer water and far fewer crowds. The wave wraps around the headland near N'Gor Island, offering long, peeling rides with occasional barrel sections. Senegal's surf scene is still developing, meaning you can score world-class conditions with only a handful of locals in the water. Africa's overlooked gem.
🌍 West Africa's best • Warm & uncrowded • North Atlantic swells
North Atlantic winter swells. Warm water alternative to Morocco.
Can also take pirogue (local boat) from N'Gor Island.
Tofinho Point is East Africa's premier left-hand point break—a long, peeling wave near the backpacker town of Tofo in Mozambique. When Indian Ocean cyclone swells hit during winter (April-September), the point comes alive with quality waves in warm, crystal-clear water. The area is known for whale sharks and manta rays, adding marine life encounters to the surf experience. Shark activity is real but manageable. This is African adventure surfing at its most authentic.
🦈 East Africa's best left • Manta ray waters • Mozambique adventure
Indian Ocean cyclone swells. Winter best.
Arugam Bay is Sri Lanka's most famous surf destination—a long, peeling right-hand point break on the island's remote east coast. During the SW monsoon season (April-October), consistent swells wrap into this laid-back beach town, offering mellow but quality waves perfect for longboarders and intermediate surfers. The vibe is pure tropical backpacker paradise: coconut curries, beach shacks, and yoga retreats. It gets crowded in peak season, but the waves keep rolling.
🇱🇰 Sri Lanka's best • Long peeling rights • Tropical backpacker vibe
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 150°-210°.
Rocky bottom. Gets crowded in peak season.
Chickens is the Maldives' most accessible quality wave—a fun, forgiving left-hander in the North Male Atoll that's open to all surfers (unlike resort-exclusive Pasta Point). The wave works on smaller swells, making it more consistent, and the reef is more user-friendly for intermediate surfers. Boat access from Male or safari boat is required, but it's affordable and uncomplicated. Bathwater-warm turquoise perfection without the exclusivity.
🐔 Maldives for everyone • Forgiving left • No resort required
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 150°-220°.
Works on smaller swells than Pasta Point.
Coral reef. More forgiving than Pasta Point.
Unknown minutes drive from MLE airport. Requires boat access ($100/day).
Cloud 9 is the Philippines' most famous wave—a hollow, dredging right-hand barrel on Siargao Island that has put Southeast Asian surfing on the world map. The wave breaks over a very shallow reef shelf, producing thick, spitting tubes that have hosted WSL Championship Tour events. When typhoon swells hit from the NE, Cloud 9 turns into a legitimate world-class barrel. The island vibe is tropical backpacker paradise, and the wave has transformed Siargao into Asia's surf destination.
🇵🇭 Philippines' crown jewel • Shallow reef barrels • Siargao paradise
NE monsoon best (Aug-Nov). Typhoon swells.
Jialeshuei is Taiwan's most consistent surf spot—a south-facing beach break in the Kenting National Park area that catches virtually every swell direction. The setup produces fun, punchy peaks year-round, with typhoon season (autumn) bringing the best conditions. Taiwan's surf scene is small but passionate, and Jialeshuei is its spiritual home. The backdrop is stunning—tropical forests meeting volcanic rock formations. Asian surfing's best-kept secret.
🇹🇼 Taiwan's best • South-facing consistency • National park waves
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 135°-195°.
Typhoon season best. Taiwan's most consistent.
Cox Bay is Canada's surf capital—a beautiful beach break surrounded by old-growth rainforest on Vancouver Island's wild west coast. Tofino has become a surfing mecca, drawing everyone from beginners to experienced chargers. The water is cold year-round (thick wetsuits required), but winter storms deliver consistent Pacific swells that light up the sandbars. The setting is stunning: rainforest, black bears, and pristine wilderness. Canadian surfing at its finest.
🍁 Canada's surf capital • Rainforest beach • Pacific wilderness
Works best with swells from 260° (W). Workable range: 220°-300°.
Winter storms deliver consistent swell. Cold water year-round.
Cold water (9-14°C). Strong currents. Rocky outcrops at ends.
Ponta Preta is Cape Verde's world-class wave—a powerful right-hand point break on Sal Island that produces some of the best barrels in the Atlantic Ocean. The wave breaks over sharp volcanic reef, requiring serious commitment and skill. The NE trade winds blow offshore, keeping conditions clean and groomed. When big NW swells wrap around the point during winter, Ponta Preta delivers heavy, makeable tubes that have drawn top pros and wave-hunters from around the world.
🇨🇻 Cape Verde's crown jewel • World-class right • Trade wind perfection
Offshore wind from 60° (ENE). Offshore range: 30°-100°. Best window: both.
Winter best. NE trades blow offshore. World-class right.
Sharp volcanic reef. Sea urchins. Strong currents.
Tofo Beach is Mozambique's best-known surf destination—a right-hand point break in a stunning location famous for whale shark encounters. The wave wraps around a headland, offering multiple sections and 100+ meter rides when Indian Ocean swells arrive during winter. Beyond surfing, Tofo is world-renowned for marine life: whale sharks, manta rays, and humpback whales. Shark activity is high but manageable. African adventure surfing meets underwater wonder.
🐳 Mozambique's flagship • Whale shark waters • African adventure
Works best with swells from 160° (SSE). Workable range: 130°-190°.
Winter swells from Southern Ocean. Whale sharks in summer.
High shark activity (whale sharks, bulls). Remote area.
Jungmun Beach is South Korea's premier surf spot—a beautiful beach break on the volcanic island of Jeju that catches typhoon swells during summer and autumn. The setting is stunning: black volcanic sand, dramatic rock formations, and clear blue water. South Korea's surf scene is small but growing rapidly, and Jungmun is its spiritual home. When Pacific storms track north, this beach lights up with fun, punchy waves. Korean surfing at its best.
🇰🇷 Korea's best • Volcanic island • Typhoon swells
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 160°-240°.
Typhoon season best (Aug-Oct). Pacific storms deliver swell.
Volcanic rocks at ends. Strong rips on bigger days.
Riyue Bay is China's flagship surf destination—a consistent beach break on tropical Hainan Island that hosts WSL Championship Tour events. The Chinese government has invested heavily in surf infrastructure here, building world-class facilities and promoting the sport. Typhoon swells and NE monsoon winds create regular waves during autumn and winter. China's surf culture is exploding, and Riyue Bay is ground zero for the mainland's wave-riding revolution.
🇨🇳 China's surf capital • WSL CT venue • Growing revolution
Needs at least 6s period. Ideal: 10s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 270° (W). Offshore range: 230°-310°. Best window: morning.
Typhoon and NE monsoon season best. WSL CT venue.
Covelong Point is the heart of India's emerging surf scene—a right-hand point break near Chennai that catches swells from the Bay of Bengal. The historic fishing village has become a hub for Indian surfing, with multiple surf schools and a growing community. Both monsoon seasons bring waves: SW monsoon (June-Sept) and NE monsoon (Oct-Nov). The culture, cuisine, and warm hospitality make this a unique surf destination. India's wave-riding revolution starts here.
🇮🇳 India's surf hub • Bay of Bengal swells • Emerging scene
Works best with swells from 120° (ESE). Workable range: 80°-160°.
SW monsoon (Jun-Sep) and NE monsoon (Oct-Nov) both produce waves.
Hoddevik is Norway's most spectacular surf beach—a remote fjord setting surrounded by dramatic peaks where you can surf under the midnight sun in summer or chase Northern Lights in winter. The water is brutally cold (4-12°C), requiring 6mm wetsuits and booties, but the landscape is otherworldly. Atlantic storms deliver consistent swells to this beach, creating fun, punchy waves in one of Earth's most scenic surf locations. Arctic adventure surfing at its finest.
🇳🇴 Arctic wonder • Midnight sun sessions • Northern Lights backdrop
Works best with swells from 290° (WNW). Workable range: 250°-330°.
Offshore wind from 110° (ESE). Offshore range: 70°-150°. Best window: both.
Autumn/winter storms. Summer midnight sun sessions. Very cold water.
Extremely cold water (4-12°C). Remote fjord location.
Mughsayl Beach is the Middle East's most consistent surf destination—a beach break in Oman's Dhofar region that transforms during the Khareef monsoon season (June-September). While the rest of Arabia bakes in summer heat, Salalah enjoys cool, misty conditions as SW monsoon swells march up from the Indian Ocean. The coastline turns green, and surf arrives with remarkable consistency. It's like surfing in Ireland, but in the Arabian Peninsula. Completely unique.
🇴🇲 Middle East's best • Monsoon magic • Arabian surf frontier
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 160°-220°.
Khareef monsoon season (Jun-Sep). SW monsoon delivers consistent swell.
Remote location. Limited surf infrastructure.
Lower Trestles is the world standard for high-performance surfing—a cobblestone point break in San Clemente that produces perfect, rippable waves with mechanical consistency. The wave has hosted more world championship events than any other spot, and the level in the water reflects it. A 20-minute walk from the parking lot keeps some crowds away, but Lowers is still often packed with some of the best surfers on Earth. California's high-performance mecca.
🏆 World's best high-performance • Cobblestone perfection • Pro proving grounds
Works best with swells from 215° (SW). Workable range: 180°-240°.
Southern hemisphere groundswell season (Apr-Oct) is best.
Incredibly crowded. High-performance standard. Cobblestone entry.
The Wedge is one of surfing's most terrifying freaks of nature—a shore break in Newport Beach where swell reflects off a jetty, doubling in size and creating massive, violent peaks. When South swells hit at the right angle, waves can reach 20+ feet, exploding onto steep sand and creating brutal, backwash-filled mayhem. It's primarily a bodyboarding wave, but fearless surfers charge it too. More injuries happen here than almost anywhere else. A spectacle of surf's raw power.
⚠️ Newport's beast • Jetty wedge chaos • Shore break fury
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 170°-210°.
Ideal size: 3.8m. Too small below 1.5m, too big (closeout) above 6m.
Requires large South swells to reflect off the jetty.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, ⚠️ Shallow, 🪨 Rocks, 👥 Crowded
Extremely dangerous shorebreak. Violent backwash. Jetty rocks.
Park at the end of the Balboa Peninsula.
Lakey Peak is one of Indonesia's most reliable and photogenic waves—a perfectly symmetrical A-frame that splits into quality left and right options. Located on Sumbawa's south coast (east of Lombok), Lakey produces textbook peaks with hollow, barreling sections on both sides. The dry season brings offshore SE trades, and the setup has developed into a full-fledged surf destination with accommodations and restaurants lining the beach. Indonesian perfection without the Bali crowds.
🔺 Perfect A-frame • Sumbawa's gem • Indonesia's most reliable
Offshore wind from 100° (E). Offshore range: 70°-130°. Best window: morning.
Sharp reef. Very consistent and can get crowded with travelers.
Coxos is arguably Portugal's best wave—a heavy, hollow right-hand reef/point break in Ericeira's World Surfing Reserve. The wave produces thick, grinding barrels over a rocky bottom, demanding commitment and skill. Entry and exit are challenging over slippery rocks, and the locals can be protective when conditions are prime. But when it's on, Coxos delivers some of Europe's most intense barrels. Portugal's hardcore crown jewel.
🇵🇹 Portugal's best • Heavy hollow right • Ericeira's crown jewel
Works best with swells from 290° (WNW). Workable range: 270°-320°.
Winter months receive the most consistent NW swells.
🪨 Rocks, 🦔 Urchins, 👊 Localism, 👥 Crowded
Difficult entry/exit over slippery rocks. Heavy localism when good.
Park at the top of the cliff and walk down.
Cacimba do Padre is Brazil's Pipeline—a world-class beach break on the remote island paradise of Fernando de Noronha. When North swells hit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, the beach produces thick, heavy barrels in crystal-clear water. The setting is unreal: dramatic volcanic formations, pristine beaches, and strict environmental protections. Getting here is expensive and requires planning, but the reward is Brazilian surfing's ultimate prize. Pipe-quality tubes in paradise.
🇧🇷 Brazilian Pipeline • Island paradise • UNESCO World Heritage waves
Works best with swells from 330° (NNW). Workable range: 310°-350°.
Offshore wind from 135° (SE). Offshore range: 90°-180°. Best window: both.
Northern hemisphere winter swells bring the biggest surf.
Remote island. Expensive access. Can get crowded with pro Brazilians.
Fly to the island, then short drive/walk.
Bruce's Beauties is the legendary wave from The Endless Summer—a perfect right-hand point break in St Francis Bay that captivated the surfing world in 1966. The wave is extremely inconsistent, requiring large East swells to wrap into the bay, which only happens a handful of times per year. But when it does, the result is mechanical, ruler-edged perfection. Chasing this wave is a game of patience and timing. Surfing's original pilgrimage destination.
🎬 Endless Summer legend • Rarely perfect • Original pilgrimage
Works best with swells from 125° (SE). Workable range: 100°-160°.
Extremely inconsistent. Needs large East swells to wrap into the bay.
Sharp rocks. Shark activity in the region. Locals can be protective.
Drive to St Francis Bay, walk down the rocks.
St Leu is one of the world's best left-hand barrels—a fast, hollow reef break on Réunion Island that produces some of the most intense tubes in the Indian Ocean. The wave is world-class, but the risk is extreme: Réunion has the highest shark attack rate on Earth, and surfing has been heavily restricted. When conditions align, St Leu delivers jaw-dropping perfection, but the shadow of danger looms over every session. Surfing's ultimate risk-reward equation.
🦈 World-class left • Highest shark risk • Réunion's masterpiece
Works best with swells from 220° (SW). Workable range: 200°-240°.
High shark risk. Sharp coral reef. Heavy localism.
Cloudbreak XXL (aka "Thundercloud") is big-wave surfing's most terrifying playing field—the outer reef at Fiji's famous Cloudbreak that activates during massive Southern Ocean swells. When 20-foot+ walls march across the reef, the wave transforms into a tow-in only colosseum of unimaginable power. The hold-downs are life-threatening, the lips are building-thick, and only the world's elite big-wave surfers dare paddle here. Fiji's ultimate heavy water arena.
⚡ Thundercloud • 60ft+ faces • Big-wave Mount Everest
Works best with swells from 210° (SSW). Workable range: 190°-230°.
Ideal size: 13.0m. Too small below 6m, too big (closeout) above 20m.
Requires massive SW groundswells from the Roaring Forties.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🪸 Sharp reef, 🏝️ Remote, 🦈 Sharks
Life-threatening hold-downs. Heavy water. Experts/Pros only.
Unknown minutes drive from NAN airport. Requires boat access ($300/day).
Kirra Cyclone is the Gold Coast's ultimate expression—the legendary sand point that transforms into the world's best right-hand barrel when massive East cyclone swells hit. These conditions only occur a handful of times per decade, but when they do, Kirra produces impossibly long, draining tubes that peel for 300+ meters. The entire Gold Coast surfing community descends for these days, creating one of surfing's most intense lineups. Australia's Holy Grail.
🌀 World's best right • Cyclone magic • Once-in-a-decade perfection
Works best with swells from 90° (E). Workable range: 70°-120°.
Offshore wind from 240° (WSW). Offshore range: 200°-280°. Best window: morning.
Requires massive East cyclone swells to connect.
Intense crowds and heavy currents during cyclone swells.
Uluwatu Bombie is Bali's big-wave arena—the deep-water outer reef that activates when massive Southern Ocean swells march north. While the famous inside sections of Uluwatu max out at double-overhead, the bombie handles waves up to 40 feet, producing thick, heavy walls that only a handful of local chargers dare tackle. Getting out there requires a long paddle past the cliffs and cave, and getting caught inside is serious business. Bali's heavyweight division.
💥 Bali big-wave • 40ft outer reef • Heavyweight Uluwatu
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 190°-220°.
Ideal size: 8.3m. Too small below 4.5m, too big (closeout) above 12m.
Requires massive SW groundswells to activate the outer reef.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🪸 Sharp reef, 👥 Crowded, 🏝️ Remote
Massive volume of water. Intense hold-downs. Cave access difficult in large surf.
Cave entry/exit; paddle out to the horizon.
Punta Roca is El Salvador's world-class gem—a long, peeling right-hand point break in La Libertad that has hosted WSL events and produced some of Central America's best surfers. The wave wraps around the rocky point, offering multiple sections and 200+ meter rides on the right swell. The local surf culture is strong and passionate, demanding respect in the lineup. SW swells pulse in consistently from March-October, making this one of Central America's most reliable destinations.
🇸🇻 El Salvador's crown • WSL-quality right • Strong local culture
Offshore wind from 0° (N). Offshore range: 330°-60°. Best window: morning.
March-October SW swell season. Consistent year-round.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🦔 Urchins, 👥 Crowded, 👊 Localism
Rocky reef. Strong local surf culture. Respect the lineup.
Montañita is South America's legendary surf and party town—a fun left-hand point break in Ecuador that has drawn backpackers, surfers, and adventurers for decades. The wave peels along a rocky point, offering long rides on SW swells that are best during the wet season (December-April). The town itself is infamous for its nightlife and bohemian vibe. Surf by day, party by night—Montañita is South American surf culture distilled.
🎉 Ecuador's party wave • Famous left point • Backpacker paradise
Works best with swells from 220° (SW). Workable range: 200°-260°.
Offshore wind from 90° (E). Offshore range: 60°-120°. Best window: morning.
December-April wet season brings best swells. Smaller May-November.
Rocky point. Strong rips on bigger days.
Playa Grande is Argentina's surf capital—the most consistent beach break in the country, located in the resort city of Mar del Plata. When South Atlantic storms deliver swell, the beach produces fun, punchy waves over sandy banks. The water is cold year-round (wetsuit required), and the scene is distinctly Argentine: asado on the beach, mate in the parking lot, and a passionate local community. National championships are held here regularly. Argentina surfing starts here.
🇦🇷 Argentina's capital • Mar del Plata consistency • National comp venue
Works best with swells from 120° (ESE). Workable range: 90°-160°.
Autumn-winter brings most consistent swells. Cold water year-round.
Cold water (13-18°C). Strong rips on bigger swells.
La Barra is Uruguay's most famous surf spot—a beach break near the glamorous resort town of Punta del Este. The wave breaks near the iconic undulating bridge and offers fun, approachable conditions for all levels. Winter swells from the South Atlantic provide the best conditions, while summer tends to be flat. The setting is unique: a sophisticated beach town with world-class restaurants and nightlife, but also a genuine surf community. Surfing meets South American glamour.
🇺🇾 Uruguay's best • Punta del Este style • South Atlantic swells
Works best with swells from 150° (SSE). Workable range: 120°-180°.
Offshore wind from 270° (W). Offshore range: 230°-320°. Best window: morning.
Autumn-winter is best. Summer very inconsistent.
Cold water (12-20°C). Rips along the break.
Easy beach access near the famous undulating bridge.
Encuentro is the Dominican Republic's most consistent surf spot—a reef break west of Cabarete that catches winter North Atlantic swells. The setup offers multiple peaks and sections, catering to different skill levels. Mornings are essential: trade winds pick up by 10am and can make surfing difficult in the afternoon. The DR is also famous for kiteboarding, and Cabarete is a hub for both sports. Caribbean surfing with year-round warmth and consistent winter swells.
🇩🇴 DR's most consistent • Morning sessions • Cabarete's reef
Works best with swells from 35° (NE). Workable range: 350°-60°.
Offshore wind from 210° (SSW). Offshore range: 170°-240°. Best window: morning.
Winter North Atlantic swells. Trade winds pick up after 10am.
Sharp reef. Strong trade winds in afternoon.
El Paredón is Guatemala's emerging surf destination—a black volcanic sand beach on the remote Pacific coast that catches SW swells consistently from March-October. The fishing village is basic but charming, with a small but growing infrastructure of surf camps and local guides. The waves are fun and punchy, suitable for intermediates, with warm water and uncrowded lineups. For surfers looking to explore Central America beyond the usual destinations, El Paredón offers authentic adventure.
🇬🇹 Guatemala's best • Black sand adventure • Emerging destination
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 170°-240°.
March-October SW swell season. Consistent beach breaks.
Black volcanic sand. Strong rips on bigger swells.
Remote fishing village. Basic infrastructure.
Capo Mannu is arguably the best wave in the Mediterranean—a series of reef and point breaks on Sardinia's wild west coast that come alive when mistral storms blow from the northwest. The setup offers multiple options: hollow reefs, workable points, and occasional barrels. Summer is flat, but autumn through spring delivers surprisingly powerful swells. The Italian surf scene is small but dedicated, and Capo Mannu is its crown jewel. Mediterranean surfing's hidden treasure.
🇮🇹 Med's best wave • Sardinian reefs • Mistral magic
Autumn-spring mistral storms produce best waves. Flat in summer.
Shallow reef sections. Cold water in winter (14°C).
Westerland is Germany's unlikely surf capital—a beach break on Sylt Island in the North Sea that receives consistent swells from autumn through spring. The water is cold, the winds are strong, and the setting is surprisingly Germanic (think beach chairs and cafes), but the waves are real and the local community is passionate. It's proof that where there's swell and determination, surfing will find a way. German engineering meets wave riding.
🇩🇪 Germany's only surf • Sylt Island • Cold North Sea waves
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 240°-320°.
Offshore wind from 90° (E). Offshore range: 45°-135°. Best window: both.
Autumn-winter storms bring consistent swells. Windy year-round.
Very cold water (8-16°C). Strong winds common.
Þorlákshöfn (Thorlakshofn) is Iceland's most accessible surf spot—a black volcanic sand beach on the south coast that receives consistent North Atlantic swells. The water is brutally cold (6mm wetsuit minimum), and the weather can be brutal, but the waves are real and the setting is otherworldly: glaciers in the background, volcanic sand underfoot, and the possibility of Northern Lights while you surf. Arctic surfing at its most extreme and beautiful.
🇮🇸 Iceland's best • Black volcanic sand • Arctic adventure
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 170°-250°.
Offshore wind from 0° (N). Offshore range: 315°-45°. Best window: both.
Autumn-winter has most swell. Summer has midnight sun but less waves.
Extremely cold water (6-12°C). Thick wetsuit essential. Remote location.
Drive from Reykjavik. Beach access near harbor.
Varberg is Sweden's unlikely surf capital—a beach break on the west coast that catches North Sea swells and has developed a passionate local community against all odds. The waves are small but consistent during autumn and winter, the water is cold, and the tide is minimal. But Swedes are determined, and Varberg has become the hub for Scandinavian surfing. Proof that surfing culture can thrive anywhere with enough commitment and stoke.
🇸🇪 Sweden's surf capital • Cold determination • Scandinavian stoke
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 240°-310°.
Autumn-winter storms. Minimal tide. Cold water year-round.
Cold water (8-18°C). Thick wetsuit required most of year.
Anakao (Flameballs) is Madagascar's best-kept surf secret—a world-class left reef break on the island's remote southwest coast. The wave produces long, hollow barrels over coral reef, accessed by boat from the tiny fishing village of Anakao. Getting here is an adventure: long flights, rough roads, basic infrastructure. But for those who make the journey, the reward is pristine, empty perfection in one of Earth's most unique settings. Ultimate African surf exploration.
🇲🇬 Madagascar's secret • Remote reef perfection • Ultimate exploration
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 170°-230°.
April-September SW groundswell season. Dry season with offshore winds.
Remote location. Basic infrastructure. Shark presence.
120 minutes drive from TLE airport. Requires boat access ($50/day).
Boat from Anakao village to outer reefs.
Saint-Leu (note: possible duplicate of St Leu id 138) is Réunion's infamous wave—a world-class left reef break that hosted WSL events until the island's catastrophic shark attacks led to heavy restrictions starting in 2011. The wave itself is perfection: long, hollow, and mechanical. But surfing here is now essentially forbidden outside shark nets due to multiple fatal attacks. A tragic reminder that even the world's best waves can become inaccessible. Check current regulations.
⚠️ SHARK DANGER • World-class but forbidden • Check regulations first
SEVERE SHARK RISK - Multiple fatal attacks. Surfing banned in many areas. Check local regulations.
Check shark alerts and local regulations before surfing.
Busua is Ghana's surf hub—a friendly beach break in the Western Region that has become the center of West African surf culture. The waves are typically small but fun, with SW swells arriving consistently during the dry season (June-September). Beyond the surf, Busua is known for its community projects teaching local kids to surf and promoting ocean awareness. It's a feel-good destination where the stoke extends beyond the lineup. West African surfing's spiritual home.
🇬🇭 Ghana's surf hub • Community-driven • West African stoke
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 170°-215°.
June-September SW swell season. Consistent but small waves.
Rips on bigger swells. Warm water, no hazards beyond normal beach break.
Cabo Ledo is Angola's emerging surf destination—a quality right-hand point break south of Luanda that is quickly gaining attention from the international surf community. The wave peels along a rocky point, offering long, rippable rides when SW groundswells arrive during the dry season (April-September). Angola's surf scene is still nascent, but Cabo Ledo has the potential to become a legitimate destination. African surf exploration's new frontier.
🇦🇴 Angola's best • Emerging destination • African frontier
April-September SW groundswell season. Offshore trade winds.
Rocky point break. Remote location with basic infrastructure.
Bat Yam is Israel's surf hub—a Mediterranean beach break just south of Tel Aviv that has developed a passionate local community. Winter storms from the northwest bring the best conditions, though waves are typically small and the sea breeze often turns things onshore by mid-morning. Early dawn patrols are essential. The Israeli surf scene is vibrant and growing, proving that Mediterranean surfing can thrive even in unexpected places.
🇮🇱 Israel's surf hub • Mediterranean breaks • Dawn patrol essential
Winter storms bring best swells. Flat in summer. Sea breeze kicks in by 10am.
Onshore winds common. Crowded during good swells.
One Eye is Mauritius' most famous wave—a world-class left reef break at Le Morne that has become equally renowned for kitesurfing and windsurfing. The wave breaks over shallow coral, producing powerful, hollow barrels when SW groundswells arrive during the May-September season. SE trade winds blow offshore, creating perfect conditions for wave-riding sports. The lineup can be crowded with kites and sails, requiring awareness from surfers. Mauritius' showcase wave.
🇲🇺 Mauritius' best • Kite/windsurf mecca • Hollow reef perfection
May-September SW swell season. SE trade winds offshore.
Shallow reef. Strong currents. Kite/windsurf traffic.
Tamarin Bay is Mauritius' original claim to surf fame—a classic left reef break featured in The Endless Summer that first put the island on the surfing map. The wave peels along a coral reef in a stunning bay setting, with dolphins regularly joining surfers in the lineup. When SW swells hit during winter (May-September), Tamarin delivers long, workable rides in warm, tropical water. The magic captured on film decades ago still exists today.
🐬 Endless Summer fame • Dolphin lineups • Classic left reef
May-September SW swell season. Dolphins frequent the lineup.
Sultans is one of the Maldives' most consistent waves—a long, peeling right-hander in the North Male Atoll that works on a wide range of swell sizes. The wave offers multiple sections over coral reef, with barrel opportunities on the right swell. Accessible by boat from Male or nearby resorts, Sultans is a staple of any Maldives surf charter. The turquoise water and consistent conditions make this a tropical right-hander paradise.
👑 Maldives staple • Consistent right • Turquoise perfection
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 160°-210°.
Offshore wind from 270° (W). Offshore range: 230°-310°. Best window: both.
March-October SW monsoon season brings consistent swell.
Shallow reef sections. Boat access required.
Unknown minutes drive from MLE airport. Requires boat access ($80/day).
Honky's is Sultans' powerful neighbor—a left-hand reef break across the channel that comes alive when bigger swells hit the North Male Atoll. The wave is heavier and more intense than its right-hand sibling, producing barrel sections over shallow coral. It needs more size to work, making it a complement rather than a replacement for Sultans. When both are firing, this corner of the Maldives offers world-class options in both directions.
🤙 Sultans' powerful neighbor • Heavy left • Bigger swell option
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 170°-220°.
Offshore wind from 90° (E). Offshore range: 50°-130°. Best window: both.
SW monsoon season. Needs more size than Sultans.
Shallow reef. Strong currents on bigger swells.
Cokes is the Maldives' most accessible quality wave—a fun right-hander named after the Coca-Cola factory on Thulusdhoo Island. The wave is forgiving on smaller days (perfect for intermediates), but can produce quality barrel sections when larger swells arrive. Staying on the island itself offers a budget-friendly alternative to expensive resort-based surf trips. This is democratic Maldives surfing—world-class waves without the five-star price tag.
🥤 Budget Maldives • Named after Coca-Cola • Accessible quality
SW monsoon. Most accessible wave in the Maldives.
Crowded due to island access. Shallow inside.
Unknown minutes drive from MLE airport. Requires boat access ($40/day).
Speedboat from Male (30 min) or stay on Thulusdhoo island.
Jailbreaks is the Maldives' most uniquely named wave—a fun right-hander named after the prison on nearby Himmafushi Island. The wave offers consistent, workable conditions that appeal to intermediates and advanced surfers alike. Staying on the local island provides a budget-conscious Maldives experience, with guesthouses and local restaurants at a fraction of resort prices. Proof that you don't need a trust fund to surf the Maldives.
🔓 Prison-island right • Budget-friendly • Democratic Maldives
Works best with swells from 185° (S). Workable range: 160°-210°.
Offshore wind from 280° (W). Offshore range: 240°-320°. Best window: both.
SW monsoon season. Named after nearby prison.
Gets crowded. Shallow sections on the inside.
Unknown minutes drive from MLE airport. Requires boat access ($30/day).
Speedboat from Male or stay on Himmafushi.
Bankvaults is a playful right-hander in the heart of the Mentawai's famous Playgrounds zone—a wave that rewards smooth, flowing surfing with multiple linking sections. The reef setup creates a series of workable walls that connect when the swell direction and tide align, offering opportunities for big carves and occasional tube sections. It's less intense than nearby Lance's Right or Macaronis, making it an excellent option for intermediate to advanced surfers looking for quality waves without the hectic crowds or heavy consequences.
🎰 Playgrounds multi-section right • Linking walls • Mid-crowd escape
Offshore wind from 120° (ESE). Offshore range: 80°-160°. Best window: morning.
April-October dry season. SE trades offshore.
Unknown minutes drive from PDG airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
Boat charter from Padang. Part of Playgrounds area.
Beng Bengs is the friendly left-hander sitting just up the channel from Macaronis, offering a refreshing counterpoint to its world-famous neighbor. Where Maccas is a precise, hollow machine, Beng Bengs is more forgiving—a rippable wall with occasional cover-up sections that welcomes progressive surfing and experimentation. When the Macaronis lineup is stacked with chargers, Beng Bengs provides breathing room and quality waves that are often overlooked. It's become a favorite among Mentawai regulars who know that scoring uncrowded perfection is just a short paddle away.
🔔 Maccas' mellow neighbor • Rippable lefts • Low-crowd gold
Thunders earns its ominous name when solid south swells pour into the Playgrounds zone—a heavy, bowling left that detonates over shallow reef with serious intent. This is where the Mentawai experience steps up in intensity, demanding committed takeoffs and fast tube navigation. The wave jacks up dramatically on the takeoff before pitching into thick, grinding barrels that seem to thunder with each impact. It's not for the faint-hearted, but for surfers ready to match its power, Thunders delivers some of the most satisfying tubes in the island chain.
⛈️ Heavy Playgrounds barrel • Bowling lefts • Not for the timid
Works best with swells from 215° (SW). Workable range: 195°-245°.
Offshore wind from 115° (ESE). Offshore range: 75°-155°. Best window: morning.
April-October. Needs solid swell to work properly.
Heavy wave. Shallow reef. For experienced surfers.
Boat charter from Padang. Playgrounds area.
Scar Reef lives up to its name with a wave that has left its mark on countless surfers—a perfect, mechanical right-hand barrel breaking over razor-sharp reef in Sumbawa. The wave peels with metronome consistency, offering flawless tube-riding opportunities, but the tradeoff is a bottom that sits terrifyingly close to the surface. Most surfers wear booties here, and even then, reef encounters are considered when, not if. The remoteness adds to both the appeal and the consequence; scoring Scar Reef uncrowded is the dream, but medical facilities are hours away.
🩹 Sumbawa's perfect right • Shallow reef gauntlet • Booties mandatory
Very shallow reef. Name says it all - expect cuts.
Unknown minutes drive from LOP airport. Requires boat access ($150/day).
Asu is Indonesia's best-kept secret left—a pristine, barreling wave off a speck of an island in the Hinako group that few surfers ever reach. The journey here is an adventure in itself: flights, boat transfers, and basic island living, but the reward is potentially perfect waves with a handful of other surfers at most. The left reels along a coral-strewn reef, offering long, makeable barrels when the Indian Ocean delivers. Asu represents the ultimate surf trip ethos: go further, score better, embrace the simple life.
🏝️ Hinako left reef • Remote perfection • Adventure required
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 200°-250°.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🏝️ Remote, 🚶 Difficult access
Very remote. Basic accommodation on island.
Unknown minutes drive from GNS airport. Requires boat access ($180/day).
Indonesian Surf Guide / Surf-Forecast cross-reference
Jacking Horse is Siargao's answer for surfers who want quality Pacific reef waves without the pressure of Cloud 9. Named for its playful, bucking sections, this right-hander breaks just down the coast and offers a more forgiving experience while still delivering legitimate barrel opportunities. The wave wedges up nicely off the reef, providing punchier sections perfect for progressive surfing. When Cloud 9 is maxing out or the lineup is too crowded, Jacking Horse becomes the locals' sanctuary—a reminder that Siargao's wave wealth extends well beyond its most famous break.
🐴 Cloud 9's playful neighbor • Punchy reef right • Crowd escape valve
Works best with swells from 80° (E). Workable range: 50°-110°.
August-November peak. Pacific typhoon swells.
Tuason Point is Siargao's premier left-hander—a wave that provides the perfect counterbalance to the right-hand dominance of Cloud 9 and its neighbors. When solid Pacific swells wrap into the island's eastern shores, Tuason comes alive with long, winding walls that offer both barrel sections and open faces for carving. The wave requires more size than the nearby rights, but when it's on, it rewards goofy-footers with the kind of frontside perfection that makes the trip to this remote Philippine island worthwhile.
↙️ Siargao's premier left • Goofy-footer's paradise • Big swell treasure
Works best with swells from 70° (ENE). Workable range: 40°-100°.
August-November peak. Needs more swell than Cloud 9.
Unknown minutes drive from IAO airport. Requires boat access ($30/day).
Stimpy's is Siargao's welcoming committee—a friendly, approachable right-hander that serves as the perfect introduction to the island's reef break lineup. Named with characteristic Filipino humor, this wave offers shorter, mellower rides than its famous neighbors, making it ideal for intermediate surfers looking to build confidence on reef. The inside section is shallow, requiring awareness, but the overall experience is more playful than punishing. When the crowds at Cloud 9 reach critical mass, Stimpy's often has empty peaks waiting.
😊 Beginner-friendly reef • Siargao intro wave • Low-key sessions
Works best with swells from 75° (ENE). Workable range: 45°-105°.
August-November. Fun option when Cloud 9 is crowded.
Ribeira d'Ilhas is the crown jewel of Europe's first World Surfing Reserve—a long, reeling right-hand point break that has hosted Championship Tour events and produced countless magazine covers. Set against the dramatic cliffs of Ericeira, Portugal, this wave wraps around a rocky headland and offers linking sections that seem to go forever on the right swell. The WSL venue status means crowds can be intense, but the wave's quality justifies the attention. When Atlantic groundswells light up the coast, Ribeira d'Ilhas is European surfing at its absolute finest.
🏆 WSL CT venue • World Surfing Reserve • Europe's premier point
Works best with swells from 300° (WNW). Workable range: 270°-330°.
September-April Atlantic swells. Summer can be small.
Guéthary is where European surfing ventures into serious territory—a powerful reef break tucked beneath the charming Basque village that transforms into a genuine big wave arena when Atlantic storms unleash. The main peak offers heavy, left-breaking walls that can hold well overhead surf, while the outer reefs light up for experienced chargers during the largest swells. The local crew is tight and proud, with decades of history at this wave, so respect in the lineup isn't optional. When the harbor wall is getting swamped and the sets are marching in, Guéthary reminds everyone that European surfing has teeth.
🇫🇷 Basque big wave territory • Heavy reef • Respect the locals
Autumn-Spring. Needs solid swell. Handles size well.
Heavy local crew. Respect the lineup. Rocky entry.
Jump off harbor wall or paddle from beach.
Les Cavaliers is one jewel in the crown of Anglet's legendary beach break chain—a stretch of sand that has produced French surf champions and hosted competitions for decades. The wave quality depends heavily on sandbar configuration, but when the banks line up, Les Cavaliers delivers proper French beach break barrels with the Pyrenees as a backdrop. It's part of a larger surf ecosystem that includes several named peaks along the Anglet strip, offering options throughout the tide cycle. The café-lined promenade and easy access make it a favorite gathering spot for the vibrant Basque surf community.
🏖️ Anglet surf strip classic • Sandbar-dependent peaks • French beach culture
Year-round with autumn/winter best. Part of Anglet stretch.
Somo is Cantabria's gateway wave—a consistent, forgiving beach break sitting across the bay from Santander that has introduced generations of Spanish surfers to the ocean. The ferry ride from the city adds a sense of adventure to what is otherwise an accessible, mellow experience. Multiple peaks spread across the bay offer options for all skill levels, from gentle knee-high walls to occasionally punchy barrels when the stars align. Surf schools populate the beach, but the length of sand ensures there's always room to spread out. For those exploring northern Spain's Atlantic coast, Somo is the natural starting point.
🇪🇸 Cantabrian gateway • Ferry-access adventure • All-levels beach
Works best with swells from 340° (NNW). Workable range: 310°-20°.
Offshore wind from 180° (S). Offshore range: 140°-220°. Best window: morning.
Autumn-Spring. Ferry access from Santander.
Punta Galea is where the Basque Country's big wave pedigree reveals itself in full fury—a clifftop amphitheater overlooking some of the most powerful surf in Europe. When the Bay of Biscay roars to life with massive Atlantic storms, waves up to 50 feet high break along this rocky promontory, drawing the continent's most committed chargers. The annual Punta Galea Challenge has cemented its reputation as Europe's premier big wave venue, with jet ski support and cliff-side spectators bearing witness. This is not a wave to take lightly; it's the proving ground for those who seek true consequence in cold, powerful water.
🌊 Europe's big wave coliseum • 50-foot faces • BWC venue
October-March big swell season. Hosts Big Wave event.
Big wave spot. Cliffs and rocks. Experts only.
Cliff access. Jet ski support for big days.
Playa Negra is Guanacaste's reef break crown jewel—a long, peeling left that offers some of the most consistent quality surf on Costa Rica's Pacific coast. The wave breaks over a flat rock shelf, producing predictable, workable walls with occasional barreling sections that have drawn surfers to this dusty coastal outpost for decades. The take-off is defined and the wave peels with reliable rhythm, rewarding patient positioning and smooth rail work. Urchins patrol the reef and booties are advisable, but the tradeoff is waves that maintain their form even when nearby beach breaks blow out.
🖤 Guanacaste's premier left • Consistent reef quality • Urchin territory
Year-round. Rainy season (May-Nov) often glassier mornings.
Sharp reef. Urchins common. Booties recommended.
Nosara has evolved into Costa Rica's yoga-and-surf mecca—a wellness-minded beach town where the mellow, consistent waves perfectly complement the morning vinyasa flow. The main breaks of Playa Guiones offer long stretches of forgiving beach break peaks, ideal for learning and longboarding, while better surfers find fun walls during larger swells. The vibe is decidedly New Age meets pura vida, with green juice stands and spiritual retreats lining the dusty roads. For those seeking warm water waves without the intensity, served with a side of holistic living, Nosara delivers exactly what it promises.
🧘 Yoga surf paradise • Mellow beach breaks • Pura vida wellness
Works best with swells from 210° (SSW). Workable range: 190°-250°.
Ideal size: 1.3m. Too small below 0.5m, too big (closeout) above 2m.
Offshore wind from 80° (E). Offshore range: 40°-120°. Best window: morning.
Year-round. Rainy season has bigger swells.
Malpais and its more famous neighbor Santa Teresa occupy the sun-baked southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, offering a constellation of breaks that range from mellow beach break walls to punchy reef points. The main right-hand point at the southern end provides the region's most defined wave, reeling along rocky outcrops with occasional barrel sections. The area's remote location—accessible by rough roads or ferry—has cultivated a distinct bohemian surf culture. Development has arrived, but the consistent waves and spectacular sunsets continue to draw surfers seeking the quintessential Costa Rican surf village experience.
🌴 Nicoya Peninsula treasure • Point and beach mix • Bohemian surf vibes
Silverbacks is Bocas del Toro's heavy-hitting secret - a powerful right-hand reef break that comes alive when NE Caribbean swells push into Panama's island archipelago. Named for the gorilla-like power of its waves (and the bull sharks that occasionally patrol its waters), this is not a spot for the faint-hearted. When winter storms send energy through the Caribbean, Silverbacks transforms into a serious wave, demanding respect and rewarding commitment with thick, grinding barrels. The boat ride out adds to the adventure, passing through Bocas' reggae-tinged island paradise before arriving at something altogether more primal.
🦍 Caribbean power right • Shark territory • Bocas' best when on
Works best with swells from 45° (NE). Workable range: 20°-80°.
Offshore wind from 225° (SW). Offshore range: 190°-260°. Best window: morning.
November-March Caribbean swells. June-July can work.
Remote reef. Boat access. Sharks present.
Unknown minutes drive from BOC airport. Requires boat access ($50/day).
Lobitos is Peru's raw, untamed left point break paradise—a collection of world-class waves strung along a desolate coastline backed by the rusting infrastructure of abandoned oil operations. The main left peels endlessly, while surrounding points offer variety from playful to punishing. The town itself is wonderfully sparse: dusty streets, basic accommodations, and a small community of dedicated surfers who've chosen this remote stretch of coast over comfort. Long-period Southern Ocean groundswells march into Lobitos throughout the year, creating opportunities for those willing to embrace the frontier surf lifestyle.
🛢️ Desert point paradise • Multiple world-class lefts • Frontier living
Year-round. March-October bigger swells from Southern Ocean.
Pacasmayo is Chicama's slightly shorter but equally sublime cousin—a left point break that can offer rides of over a kilometer when the conditions conspire. Located just south of the world's longest wave, Pacasmayo provides an alternative when Chicama is too crowded or not quite connecting. The wave peels along a sandy point with remarkable consistency, offering endless walls for carving and the occasional hollow section. The pier provides both a landmark and wind shelter. For those chasing the Peruvian point break dream, Pacasmayo delivers the same infinite sensation with a fraction of the fanfare.
📐 Chicama's sibling • Kilometer-long potential • Empty perfection
Year-round. Biggest swells March-October.
Huanchaco is where surfing's ancient and modern worlds collide—a charming Peruvian fishing village where local fishermen still paddle out on caballitos de totora, the reed watercraft that represent 3,000 years of wave riding history. The beach break itself is mellow and forgiving, perfect for beginners and longboarders, but the real magic is watching the caballito fishermen work the same waves their ancestors did. The colorful waterfront, excellent ceviche, and proximity to the archaeological wonders of Chan Chan make Huanchaco a cultural surf destination unlike any other on Earth.
🛶 3,000 years of wave riding • Caballito heritage • Cultural immersion
Year-round. Historic surf town - caballitos de totora.
Iquique is Chile's desert surf capital—a city wedged between the vast Atacama Desert and the cold, powerful Pacific, offering some of South America's most dramatic surf settings. Multiple left points line the coastline, receiving consistent Southern Ocean groundswells against a backdrop of sand dunes and barren hills that haven't seen rain in years. The water is brisk thanks to the Humboldt Current, but wetsuits are a small price for quality waves with minimal crowds. The city's dramatic setting beneath towering cliffs and its duty-free shopping zone make it an unlikely but rewarding surf destination.
🏜️ Atacama meets Pacific • Cold water lefts • Dramatic desert setting
Works best with swells from 230° (SW). Workable range: 210°-260°.
Wilderness lives up to its name as Barbados' most challenging wave—a heavy, unpredictable left that breaks over sharp coral on the island's rugged east coast. This is not the Caribbean of cruise ship brochures; Wilderness is a serious wave that demands respect, fitness, and experience. When trade swells wrap around the island, the reef comes alive with thick, grinding barrels that have claimed many boards and left their mark on many surfers. Access is tricky, crowds are minimal, and the reward is some of the most consequential surf in the region.
🌀 Barbados' heaviest • Sharp coral reef • Caribbean intensity
Sharp reef. Sea urchins. Strong currents.
Freights is Barbados' most accessible quality reef break—a fun, playful right on the island's mellower south coast that offers a welcome contrast to the east coast's intensity. Named after the old sugar freight trains that once chugged past, this wave peels with reliable form over shallow reef, providing barrel opportunities without the punishing consequences of spots like Wilderness. The break sits near the island's surf hub, making it easy to combine sessions with the Bajan beach bar culture. When north swells wrap around and the trades back off, Freights becomes a Caribbean reef break playground.
🚂 South coast fun right • Mellow Caribbean reef • Surf culture hub
Offshore wind from 340° (NNW). Offshore range: 300°-20°. Best window: morning.
Winter swell season. South coast more sheltered.
Tres Palmas is the Caribbean's big wave proving ground—a powerful right-hand reef break in Rincón, Puerto Rico, that transforms into a legitimate big wave arena when massive northwest swells funnel into this corner of the island. Protected as a marine sanctuary, the reef creates perfect, heavy walls that can hold triple-overhead surf and beyond, drawing big wave riders from across the Americas when conditions align. The surrounding elkhorn coral ecosystem adds ecological significance to what is already Puerto Rico's most respected wave. This is where Caribbean surfing reaches its upper limits.
🌴 Caribbean big wave arena • Marine sanctuary • Triple overhead+
Offshore wind from 140° (SE). Offshore range: 100°-180°. Best window: morning.
🪸 Sharp reef, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🌀 Strong rips
Big wave spot. Shallow reef. Strong currents.
Manly Beach is where Australian surfing began—an iconic crescent of sand just a ferry ride from Sydney's harbor that has been the heart of Australian surf culture for over a century. The multiple peaks along this broad beach offer waves for everyone, from learners on the inside to experienced surfers hunting the more defined sandbar peaks. The beach gets crowded—intensely so on weekends—but the energy and accessibility make it a pilgrimage site for understanding surf culture Down Under. The ferry ride from Circular Quay, passing the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, is one of surfing's most scenic commutes.
🇦🇺 Australian surf birthplace • Ferry from Sydney • Crowds guaranteed
Works best with swells from 120° (ESE). Workable range: 90°-150°.
Year-round. Autumn/winter more consistent.
Strong rips. Very crowded especially weekends.
Dee Why Point is Sydney's answer for those seeking quality reef over beach break randomness—a right-hand point that wraps around the northern headland with mechanical precision when solid southeast swells light up the Sydney coast. The wave requires more size than the surrounding beaches but rewards patience with long, workable walls and occasional barrel sections. The rocky entry and exit demand awareness, and the local crew has been surfing here for generations. On a good day, Dee Why Point offers some of the best surfing within the Sydney metropolitan area.
➡️ Sydney's quality right • SE swell magnet • Local point break
Year-round. Needs solid swell to break properly.
Cape Woolamai is Phillip Island's main surf beach—a dramatic stretch of sand backed by towering cliffs where Southern Ocean swells wrap into consistently good beach break peaks. The wild, rugged setting provides a stark contrast to the island's famous penguin parade and MotoGP circuit, offering genuine cold-water surfing with the added bonus of seal colonies and occasional shark sightings. The rips here can be powerful, and the water is decidedly brisk, but those willing to embrace Victoria's wild coast will find quality waves away from the crowds of closer beaches.
🐧 Phillip Island main break • Southern Ocean power • Wild Victoria
Year-round. SW swells from Southern Ocean.
Strong rips. Shark activity - seals nearby.
Black Rock is Phillip Island's reef break reward—a quality right-hander that peels over volcanic rock with surprising precision when clean southwest groundswells march in from the Southern Ocean. The wave can barrel properly on the right combination of tide and swell, offering a reef break alternative to the island's sandy beach options. The seal colony nearby means shark awareness is essential, and the water temperature demands serious wetsuit commitment, but Black Rock delivers genuine Victorian reef quality for those willing to seek it out.
🦭 Victorian reef right • Cold water barrels • Seal colony neighbor
Offshore wind from 350° (N). Offshore range: 310°-30°. Best window: morning.
Year-round. Best on clean SW groundswell.
Shallow reef. Sharks - seal colony nearby.
Cape St Francis is where the endless summer dream began—the right-hand point break immortalized by Bruce Brown's iconic 1966 film that launched the global surf travel movement. While the wave rarely reaches the perfection of those legendary frames, when conditions align, it still delivers long, reeling walls along the rocky point with the same magic that captivated audiences worldwide. The Bruce's Beauties section on bigger swells offers the most defined waves, and the surrounding coastline is dotted with additional breaks worth exploring. This is hallowed ground for surf history.
🎬 Endless Summer legend • Film that changed surfing • Pilgrimage point
Offshore wind from 300° (WNW). Offshore range: 260°-340°. Best window: morning.
Safi is Morocco's best-kept secret—a collection of world-class right-hand point breaks that rival anything in the more famous Taghazout zone, but with a fraction of the crowds. The industrial fishing port backdrop may lack the charm of southern Morocco's surf villages, but the waves more than compensate. Long, mechanical walls peel along the rocky points, offering extended rides and genuine quality when Atlantic groundswells light up the coast. For those willing to venture beyond the well-worn Taghazout path, Safi rewards with uncrowded perfection.
🐟 Morocco's secret points • Less crowds, more waves • Industrial charm
Supertubes is the beating heart of Jeffreys Bay—arguably the fastest rideable wave on the planet. This section of the legendary J-Bay point complex produces immaculate, high-speed barrels that have cemented its reputation as one of surfing's most perfect waves. When winter groundswells from the Roaring Forties light up the South African coast, Supertubes delivers extended tube rides at warp speed, with the famous end section providing one last chance at glory. The WSL Championship Tour event here consistently produces the most spectacular rides of the season.
⚡ Earth's fastest wave • J-Bay's main event • WSL perfection
May-September peak. SW groundswells from Roaring 40s.
Shark activity. Very crowded when good. Heavy local crew.
Lance's Right, also known as Hollow Trees or HT's, is the Mentawai's most celebrated wave—a right-hand barrel machine that has established itself among the finest reef breaks on the planet. The wave jacks up on the outside reef before pitching over a shallow coral slab, producing flawless, symmetrical tubes that have become the defining image of Mentawai surf travel. When solid Indian Ocean groundswells arrive, HT's offers extended barrel rides that rank with the best anywhere. The remote location adds to both the challenge and the mystique of scoring this Indonesian perfection.
🌴 Hollow Trees/HT's • Mentawai's main event • World's best right barrel
🪸 Sharp reef, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote, 🦈 Sharks
Shallow reef. Heavy wave. Remote location.
Boat charter from Padang. Also known as HTs.
Bingin is Bali's picture-perfect barrel—a short, shallow, sucking left-hander that produces some of the most photogenic tubes on the island when conditions align. The wave breaks just meters from the limestone cliff, offering little margin for error on the takeoff but rewarding commitment with flawless, gaping pits. The steep staircase descent from the cliffs above adds to the adventure, while the packed lineup during good swells demonstrates just how coveted these barrels are. Bingin is Bali barrel surfing at its most intense and rewarding.
📸 Bali's photogenic pit • Shallow slab • Cliff staircase access
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 👥 Crowded, 🚶 Difficult access
Very shallow. Cliff stairs access. Crowded.
Long stairs down cliff. Paddle from beach.
Keramas is Bali's most high-performance wave—a right-hand reef break on the island's black sand east coast that hosts the WSL Championship Tour and features the world's only professional-grade night surfing facility. The wave produces fast, hollow barrels and rippable walls that reward aggressive surfing, with the unique opportunity to surf under stadium lights after dark. The partnership between competitive surfing and luxury resort culture has transformed Keramas into one of the sport's most distinctive venues. When southeast swells wrap around and northwest winds blow offshore, this is Indonesian wave perfection.
💡 WSL night surfing venue • East coast perfection • High-performance
Works best with swells from 195° (SSW). Workable range: 150°-220°.
Wet season. Works on SE groundswell + offshore NW winds.
Sharp reef. Crowded - night surfing facility.
Sancho is Brazil's ultimate exclusive wave—a perfect right-hand barrel breaking over volcanic reef on Fernando de Noronha, a UNESCO World Heritage archipelago 350km off the mainland. The marine park status means strict visitor limits, environmental fees, and genuine protection of what many consider Brazil's finest wave. When north Atlantic swells reach this remote outpost, the reef produces flawless, symmetrical tubes in crystalline tropical waters teeming with marine life. Getting here is a pilgrimage, but those who make it discover Brazilian surfing's most pristine treasure.
🌊 UNESCO marine paradise • Brazil's best wave • Limited access
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 320°-30°.
Marine park - limited surfers per day. Shark activity. Permit required.
UNESCO site. Daily visitor limits. Environmental fee.
Sorake Bay, commonly known as Lagundri or simply Nias, is one of Indonesia's original wave discoveries—a perfect mechanical right-hand point that produces rides of up to 300 meters when solid Indian Ocean groundswells arrive. The wave reels along a keyhole-shaped reef with such consistency that it became a pilgrim destination decades before the Mentawais were explored. The 2005 earthquake raised the reef and changed the wave's character, but Nias remains a special place where heavy barrels and world-class walls coexist. This is Indonesian surf history made manifest.
🏛️ Original Indo discovery • 300m potential • Surf history shrine
Works best with swells from 260° (W). Workable range: 240°-290°.
April-October. Indian Ocean groundswell season.
🪸 Sharp reef, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote, 🚶 Difficult access
Shallow reef. Long hold-downs on bigger swells. Remote island.
Fly to Gunungsitoli, then drive to Sorake.
Stormrider is the Playgrounds zone's heavy-hitter—a left-hand barrel named after the iconic surf guidebook series that first documented the Mentawai Islands for the traveling surfer. When solid swells march in from the Indian Ocean, this wave transforms into one of the heaviest tubes in the island chain, demanding commitment and delivering consequences. The shallow inside reef leaves no margin for error, but for those seeking serious Mentawai tubes away from the right-hand crowds, Stormrider offers the kind of raw barrel experience that defines Indonesian surf exploration.
📖 Guidebook namesake • Heavy left barrel • Playgrounds serious side
Balangan is Bali's approachable gem—a beautiful left-hand reef break on the Bukit Peninsula that offers world-class views and fun, rippable waves without the intensity of Uluwatu or the shallow terror of Bingin. The wave breaks in front of a picturesque crescent beach, providing an accessible paddle and a forgiving reef (by Bali standards). The barrel section delivers when conditions align, while the shoulder offers ample room for turns and progressive surfing. Balangan has become a favorite for surfers seeking Bukit quality in a more relaxed setting.
🏖️ Bukit's friendly face • Beautiful setting • Fun barrel potential
Donghe is Taiwan's surfing showcase—a rivermouth break on the island's wild Pacific coast that hosts international competitions and represents the heart of Taiwanese surf culture. The setup creates multiple peaks that work across various conditions, from typhoon swells in summer to northeast monsoon swells in winter. The dramatic coastal scenery, indigenous Amis culture, and emerging surf scene make Donghe a fascinating destination for those seeking waves off the beaten path. Taiwan's surf potential remains largely untapped, and Donghe is the gateway to discovering it.
🇹🇼 Taiwan surf capital • Rivermouth setup • Pacific coast discovery
Works best with swells from 110° (ESE). Workable range: 80°-150°.
Typhoon swells in summer. NE monsoon swells in winter.
Rocky rivermouth. Strong currents during typhoon swells.
Taiwan Open of Surfing venue. Easy beach access.
Weligama Bay is Sri Lanka's gentle introduction to tropical surfing—a protected crescent bay where soft, rolling waves provide the perfect classroom for learning. The fishing village atmosphere, with its iconic stilt fishermen and coconut-lined shores, creates a quintessentially Sri Lankan experience. Multiple surf schools cater to beginners, while more experienced surfers can find fun walls when larger swells wrap into the bay. The warm water, consistent conditions, and relaxed vibe have made Weligama a favorite stop on the Asian surf trail.
🇱🇰 Sri Lanka's surf school • Stilt fishermen backdrop • Tropical learning waves
Offshore wind from 30° (NNE). Offshore range: 350°-70°. Best window: morning.
Tourist-friendly beach town. Many surf schools.
São Torpes is Portugal's quirky surf anomaly—a consistent beach break made famous by a nearby power plant that warms the water several degrees above normal. While this industrial feature might sound unappealing, it creates a unique microclimate where surfers can extend their sessions in comfort during the colder months. The multiple peaks along this stretch of sand pick up Atlantic swells reliably, and the reduced crowds compared to Ericeira and Peniche make it an attractive alternative. It's Portugal surfing with an unexpected twist.
🔥 Power plant warmth • Crowd-free alternative • Industrial beach break
Year-round waves. Best Oct-April with big Atlantic swells.
Less crowded alternative to Ericeira. Power plant keeps water warm.
Kokrobite is the heart of Ghana's emerging surf scene—a laid-back beach community near Accra where Rastafari culture meets West African waves. The beach break picks up Southern Hemisphere swells during the winter months, providing gentle waves perfect for the country's growing surf community. Mr. Bright's surf school has become an institution, introducing locals and visitors alike to the joys of wave riding. The reggae vibes, friendly atmosphere, and sense of discovery make Kokrobite a unique stop on any African surf adventure.
🇬🇭 Ghana's surf birthplace • Rastafari beach vibes • West Africa discovery
June-Sept best. Southern Hemisphere winter swells.
Occasional water quality issues. Strong currents.
Rastafari beach community. Budget accommodation.
Punta Miramar is Argentina's best right-hand point break—a quality wave in a country better known for flat pampas than surf spots. Located near the beach resort city of Mar del Plata, this rocky point catches South Atlantic swells and produces long, workable walls that reward patient positioning and smooth rail surfing. The water is cold year-round, and the scene is distinctly Argentine—think asado on the beach and mate shared between sessions. For South American surf explorers, Miramar offers proof that quality waves exist far beyond the continent's tropical zones.
🇦🇷 Argentina's quality point • Cold water walls • South Atlantic surprise
Works best with swells from 130° (SE). Workable range: 100°-170°.
Autumn/Winter best. South Atlantic swells.
Pichilemu is Chile's undisputed surf capital—a collection of world-class point breaks centered around the historic resort town on the country's cold Pacific coast. La Puntilla, the main break, offers long left-hand walls that can rival anything in South America when solid Southern Ocean groundswells arrive. The surrounding coastline is dotted with additional spots, from beginner-friendly beaches to hollow reef breaks. Chilean surf culture runs deep here, with wetsuit-clad locals braving the cold water year-round. Pichilemu proves that you don't need tropical warmth to find world-class waves.
🇨🇱 Chile's surf capital • La Puntilla lefts • Cold water commitment
Works best with swells from 240° (WSW). Workable range: 210°-280°.
Ideal size: 2.1m. Too small below 0.8m, too big (closeout) above 3.5m.
Year-round swells. Autumn-Winter bigger and cleaner.
Rocky coastline. Strong currents. Cold water.
Chile surf capital. Multiple breaks in the area.
El Tunco is El Salvador's surf and party headquarters—a compact beach village where rocky point breaks meet a thriving nightlife scene. The main break wraps around a distinctive pig-shaped rock formation (hence the name), while the world-class right-hander of Punta Roca lies just down the coast. The town pulses with Central American energy, from budget surf hostels to beachside bars bumping music until dawn. El Salvador's consistent south swells and affordability have made it a backpacker favorite, and El Tunco sits at the heart of that discovery.
🐷 Pig rock namesake • Surf-party fusion • Punta Roca access
South swells March-October. Very consistent.
Rocky point. Gets crowded in town. Multiple breaks.
El Salvador surf hub. Many surf camps and hostels.
Santa Teresa is Costa Rica's open secret that's no longer much of a secret—a once-remote beach town that has blossomed into a world-class surf destination with the yoga studios and organic cafés to match. The consistent beach break peaks stretch for miles along the dusty main road, offering waves for all abilities with reliable year-round surf. The sunset sessions, with silhouettes of surfers against orange skies, have become iconic imagery. Development is transforming the area, but the waves remain as consistent as ever, drawing a continuous stream of surf travelers seeking pura vida perfection.
☀️ Pura vida showcase • Consistent beach peaks • Yoga surf fusion
Year-round waves. Bigger swells April-October.
Strong rips on bigger days. Growing crowds.
Nicoya Peninsula. Tambor airport closer. Beach town vibes.
Hiriketiya is Sri Lanka's emerging surf destination—a picturesque horseshoe bay on the country's south coast where protected waters create ideal conditions for learners and intermediate surfers. The crescent beach funnels swells into manageable peaks, while the growing collection of cafés and guesthouses along the cliff adds a boutique feel to the experience. It's been called the next big thing in Asian surf travel, though crowds are already arriving. The coconut palm setting, warm water, and mellow vibe capture everything appealing about tropical surf exploration.
🌙 Horseshoe bay beauty • Sri Lanka's next big thing • Protected learning waters
Horseshoe bay. Protected and beginner-friendly.
Batukaras is West Java's longboarding paradise—a long, mellow right-hand point break in a remote fishing village that has become a sanctuary for those seeking the simple surf life. The wave peels slowly along the bay, offering extended rides that reward smooth, flowing turns over aggressive maneuvers. The journey here is part of the appeal: winding roads through rice terraces to a village where the pace slows to match the leisurely waves. For those tired of competitive lineups and hollow slabs, Batukaras offers Indonesian surfing's gentle, soulful alternative.
🛹 Longboarder's heaven • West Java hideaway • Gentle right point
Remote fishing village. Basic but improving facilities.
Baler is where Philippine surfing was born—a historic beach in Aurora Province made famous globally by Apocalypse Now's iconic surf scene, though the waves here are far gentler than Hollywood depicted. Sabang Beach provides consistent, beginner-friendly peaks that have nurtured the country's growing surf community for decades. The five-hour drive from Manila through the Sierra Madre mountains adds adventure to the journey, while the town's laid-back atmosphere and affordable accommodation make it perfect for extended surf stays. Baler represents Philippine surfing at its most authentic.
🎬 Apocalypse Now fame • Philippine surf heritage • Beginner paradise
Works best with swells from 70° (ENE). Workable range: 40°-85°.
NE monsoon brings best waves. Typhoon swells in summer.
Birthplace of Philippine surfing. Sabang Beach main spot.
Ahangama steps up the intensity from Sri Lanka's beginner-friendly breaks—a collection of reef setups along the southern coast that offer more challenging waves and the iconic backdrop of stilt fishermen perched above the surf. Multiple peaks provide options, from mellow corners to more powerful reef sections that demand proper positioning and timing. The village setting is authentically Sri Lankan, with fishing boats lining the beach and the sense of an older, less-developed coast. For surfers seeking to graduate from Weligama, Ahangama provides the next chapter.
🎣 Stilt fisherman waters • Reef break step-up • Authentic Sri Lanka
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 160°-220°.
Known for stilt fishermen. Multiple reef breaks.
Puerto Viejo is Costa Rica's Caribbean fever dream - a reggae-tinged beach town where the infamous Salsa Brava reef breaks over shallow coral with shocking power. This is not the mellow pura vida of the Pacific coast; Salsa Brava is one of Central America's heaviest waves, delivering thick, dredging right-and-left barrels that have humbled many experienced surfers. The surrounding area offers gentler alternatives, but the main event is this brutal reef that awakens when E-NE Caribbean swells pour in. The town's multicultural Afro-Caribbean vibe, combined with world-class slab surfing, creates an experience unlike anywhere else in Costa Rica.
🌶️ Salsa Brava slab • Caribbean power • Reggae soul
Works best with swells from 70° (ENE). Workable range: 40°-110°.
Offshore wind from 200° (SSW). Offshore range: 160°-240°. Best window: morning.
Very shallow reef at Salsa Brava. Experts only at peak.
Caribbean coast. Reggae vibes. Salsa Brava is the main break.
Ouakam is the flagship wave of Senegal's growing surf scene—a quality right-hand reef break on the volcanic Cap-Vert peninsula just outside the capital Dakar. When North Atlantic winter swells sweep down the African coast, this reef comes alive with long, workable walls and occasional barrel sections. N'Gor Right, accessible by pirogue (traditional fishing boat), offers additional world-class options nearby. Senegal represents surf exploration at its most genuine, with a welcoming local community and the sense of discovering something special. This is West African surfing's emerging frontier.
🇸🇳 Senegal's showcase • West Africa awakening • Quality reef right
North Atlantic winter swells. October-April.
Sharp volcanic reef. Respect local crew.
Just outside Dakar city. N'Gor Island nearby for more waves.
El Confital is Europe's hidden gem—a world-class right-hand barrel breaking over volcanic reef on the northern tip of Gran Canaria, visible from the city of Las Palmas yet somehow remaining relatively uncrowded. When solid north Atlantic swells sweep down from winter storms, this wave produces powerful, hollow tubes that rank among the finest in Europe. The volcanic reef bottom creates predictable, mechanical sections that reward skilled tube riders. Accessible by a short walk from the city, El Confital offers genuine big wave surfing with urban convenience—a rare combination anywhere in the world.
🌋 Canary Islands barrel • Urban world-class right • Volcanic perfection
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 270°-340°.
Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May
Best September-May. North Atlantic winter swells.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🪨 Rocks, 👥 Crowded, 👊 Localism
World-class right. Can get crowded. Respect locals.
Walk from Las Palmas city. Northernmost beach of Gran Canaria.
Zurriola is one of Europe's most glamorous urban surf breaks—a consistent beach break in the heart of San Sebastián, arguably the world's most beautiful surf town. The crescent beach sits between the historic old town and the trendy Gros neighborhood, with elegant Belle Époque architecture framing every session. The waves are accessible and consistent, making it perfect for all levels, though crowds are inevitable given the location. When the Bay of Biscay delivers, local chargers push the performance envelope. Zurriola proves that world-class surf and Michelin-starred dining can exist in perfect harmony.
🏛️ Europe's most elegant surf • San Sebastián beauty • Urban beach perfection
Works best with swells from 310° (NW). Workable range: 270°-350°.
Offshore wind from 160° (SSE). Offshore range: 120°-200°. Best window: morning.
Works year-round. Best September-December.
Very crowded. Strong currents. Watch for swimmers.
Heart of San Sebastian. Walk from Gros district.
Pantin is Galicia's surfing gateway—a powerful beach break in northwest Spain that hosts the longstanding Pantin Classic, one of Europe's most respected WSL Qualifying Series events. The dramatic granite cliffs surrounding this wild Atlantic beach create a setting that feels worlds away from Spain's Mediterranean image. When solid swells sweep in from the north Atlantic, Pantin produces hollow A-frame peaks with genuine barrel potential. The Celtic-influenced Galician culture, world-class seafood, and uncrowded waves make this an increasingly popular destination for surfers exploring beyond the Basque Country.
⚔️ Galicia's wild heart • Pantin Classic venue • Celtic surf frontier
Works best with swells from 310° (NW). Workable range: 260°-350°.
Year-round consistency. Best autumn-spring for size.
Strong currents on bigger days. Some rocks at edges.
40min from A Coruna airport. Easy beach access.
Maroubra is Sydney's most hardcore surf spot—a raw, powerful beach break made famous globally by the documentary Bra Boys, which told the story of the tight-knit local crew who grew up in the surrounding housing projects. The wave itself can deliver serious punch when autumn and winter swells arrive, producing hollow peaks that demand commitment. The local energy is proud and protective, with generations of surfers who've grown up treating this beach as sacred territory. Visitors should come with respect; Maroubra rewards those who earn their place in the lineup.
💪 Bra Boys territory • Raw Sydney power • Respect required
Works best with swells from 120° (ESE). Workable range: 70°-150°.
Works year-round. Autumn-winter best for S swells.
Bra Boys territory. Strong rips. Respect the lineup.
25min from Sydney Airport. Street parking available.
Kata Beach is Thailand's surfing headquarters—a gentle beach break that comes alive during the monsoon season when southwest swells push into Phuket's west coast. This is not the place for challenging waves; rather, it's where Thailand's growing surf community learns to ride, where surf schools dot the shoreline, and where the country's competitive surfing scene is slowly developing. The warm water, consistent small waves, and abundance of rental boards make Kata perfect for beginners. Between sessions, the full tourism infrastructure of Phuket provides endless entertainment options.
🇹🇭 Thailand's surf school • Monsoon season magic • Gentle warm-water learning
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 210°-270°.
Monsoon season only. May-October SW swells.
Gentle beach break. Beginner friendly. Rips on bigger days.
50min from Phuket International Airport.
Praia do Populo is the Azores' most consistent surf spot—a beach break on volcanic black sand that sits in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, catching swells from virtually every direction. Located minutes from the capital Ponta Delgada on São Miguel island, this wave offers year-round potential in one of Europe's most underexplored surf regions. The dramatic volcanic landscape, thermal hot springs for recovery, and uncrowded lineups make the Azores a compelling alternative to Portugal's mainland coast. For surf explorers seeking genuine discovery, Populo is the portal to an Atlantic archipelago secret.
🌊 Mid-Atlantic gem • Volcanic black sand • Azores gateway
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 180°-250°.
Needs at least 9s period. Ideal: 13s+ (long-period groundswell).
Year-round waves. Winter for N swells, summer for S swells.
Volcanic sand. Some rocks. Can have strong currents.
10min from Ponta Delgada airport. Easy beach access.
Jinzun Harbor is Taiwan's premier surf spot and host of the WSL Taiwan Open. This beach break sits in a scenic harbor setting on Taiwan's rugged east coast, receiving consistent swells from the NE monsoon during winter and occasional typhoon swells in summer. The wave offers multiple peaks with both lefts and rights, making it suitable for all skill levels. The local surf scene is welcoming and the nearby town of Donghe provides authentic Taiwanese cuisine and culture. With warm water, uncrowded lineups, and easy access from Taipei, it's an underrated Asian surf destination.
🇹🇼 WSL Taiwan Open venue • Beach break for all levels • NE monsoon magic
Works best with swells from 70° (ENE). Workable range: 30°-120°.
Best Oct-Apr NE monsoon. Typhoon swells May-Sep.
Beach break. Beginner to intermediate friendly.
40min from Taitung Airport. 1hr flight from Taipei.
Jardim do Mar is Madeira's controversial surf legend—a world-class right-hand reef break in one of Portugal's most picturesque villages, forever altered by a controversial seawall built in 2004. Before the construction, this wave was regarded among Europe's finest, producing massive, hollow walls up to 30 feet high. Today, the break is changed but still capable of excellence on the right swells. The dramatic volcanic cliffs, the charming village clinging to the coastline, and the raw Atlantic power make Jardim do Mar a must-visit for advanced surfers exploring Madeira's big-wave potential.
🏔️ Madeira's legendary right • Seawall controversy • Big-wave Atlantic
Works best with swells from 300° (WNW). Workable range: 270°-350°.
Powerful reef break. Shallow at low tide. Experts only.
50min from Funchal airport. Scenic coastal drive.
My Khe is Vietnam's surf frontier—a beautiful beach near Da Nang named among the world's most stunning, where surfing is slowly gaining a foothold. The gentle beach break receives northeast monsoon swells from November through March, providing consistent small waves perfect for the country's growing surf community. Vietnam's surf scene is in its infancy, which means uncrowded lineups and the excitement of genuine discovery. The excellent cuisine, affordable costs, and fascinating history make Da Nang an increasingly attractive base for exploring surf in a region few have considered.
🇻🇳 Vietnam's surf awakening • Beautiful beach • Uncrowded discovery
Works best with swells from 60° (ENE). Workable range: 45°-100°.
Needs at least 7s period. Ideal: 10s+ (long-period groundswell).
Gentle beach break. Good for beginners. Rips on bigger days.
15min from Da Nang International Airport.
Praia do Tonel is where Europe ends—a dramatic beach break beneath the historic Sagres Fortress at the southwestern tip of the continent where Prince Henry the Navigator once plotted explorations. The wave offers a fun left point and beach break peaks in a setting of incomparable beauty and historical weight. Less crowded than Portugal's more famous northern breaks, Tonel rewards those who venture to the Algarve's wild west coast with quality waves and the sense of surfing at the edge of the known world. The sunsets here, as the Atlantic stretches toward America, are unforgettable.
🧭 End of Europe • Sagres Fortress backdrop • Historical drama
Some rock patches. Strong rips. Check conditions.
75min from Faro airport. 35min from Lagos.
Bay of Plenty is Durban's friendly surf cornerstone—a reliable beach break on the famous Golden Mile where generations of South African surfers have learned their craft. Protected by shark nets and patrolled by lifeguards, this is one of Africa's most accessible surf spots, producing consistent peaks that work for all skill levels. The warm Agulhas Current keeps water temperatures pleasant year-round, while the Durban beachfront culture adds energy to every session. This is where South African surf heritage meets modern beach culture.
🇿🇦 Durban's Golden Mile • Warm Indian Ocean • South African heritage
Works best with swells from 130° (SE). Workable range: 90°-145°.
Best autumn-winter. SSE groundswell season.
20min from King Shaka International. Golden Mile beachfront.
Playa Guiones is Nosara's main event—seven kilometers of consistent beach break peaks that have transformed this remote corner of Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula into a world-renowned surf and yoga destination. The wave is endlessly forgiving, with soft walls perfect for longboarding and learning, yet capable of punchy peaks when larger swells arrive. The community that has grown around these waves blends wellness culture with surf stoke in a way that defines modern tropical surf travel. Consistent, warm, beautiful, and welcoming—Guiones delivers exactly what it promises.
🌅 7km of beach break • Yoga surf fusion • Costa Rica consistency
Year-round. S-SW green-season swells are the primary power source; winter NW pulses can also work.
Gentle waves. Beginner friendly. Some rips on bigger days.
2hrs from Liberia airport. Scenic drive through jungle.
La Punta is Puerto Escondido's friendly alternative—a mellow left-hand point break at the southern end of the beach, offering an escape from the Mexican Pipeline's terrifying power. While Zicatela punishes, La Punta rewards with long, workable walls perfect for progressing surfers and those seeking a more relaxed session. The point catches the same swells but refracts them into something far more approachable. The hipster-friendly neighborhood behind the break adds café culture and boutique accommodation to the mix. For those who want the Puerto lifestyle without the Puerto beatdowns, La Punta delivers.
↙️ Zicatela's gentle twin • Mellow left point • Puerto without the punishment
Works best with swells from 195° (SSW). Workable range: 170°-230°.
Offshore wind from 20° (NNE). Offshore range: 340°-60°. Best window: morning.
SW swell season May-October. Gentler than Zicatela.
Much friendlier than Zicatela. Some rocks at point.
10min from Puerto Escondido airport. Walk from Zicatela.
La Izquierda is the Canary Islands' high-performance showcase—a fast, hollow left breaking over volcanic reef right in the heart of Playa de las Américas' tourist zone. The wave is an improbable gift, offering world-class barrels within walking distance of package-holiday hotels and beach bars. When a winter swell lights up this coast, La Izquierda transforms from dormant reef to machine-like perfection, though the shallow volcanic bottom punishes mistakes severely. The contrast between holiday resort normalcy and serious reef break intensity makes this one of Europe's most surreal surf experiences.
🌋 Canarian perfection • Tourist town treasure • Volcanic intensity
Best October-February. Needs SW-W swell.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 👊 Localism, 👥 Crowded
Sharp volcanic rocks. Very shallow. Know your exit. Crowded.
15min from Tenerife South airport. Center of tourist town.
N'Gor Right is West Africa's legendary wave—a consistent right-hand reef break on a small island just offshore from Dakar that Bruce Brown famously introduced to the world in The Endless Summer. More than fifty years later, N'Gor still delivers the same magic: crystal-clear water, 100-200 meter rides, and a vibe that combines African warmth with genuine surf adventure. A short pirogue ride deposits you on the island, where time moves at its own pace and the wave peels with remarkable consistency through the northern hemisphere winter. This is where surf exploration meets surf history.
🎬 Endless Summer fame • West Africa icon • Pirogue adventure
Volcanic reef. Wear booties. Some shark activity.
15 minutes drive from DSS airport. Requires boat access ($5/day).
Endless Summer film, West Africa surf community
15min from Dakar airport. Short pirogue ride to island.
Raglan - Manu Bay is surfing's ultimate left-hand point—a wave so long that rides can connect for over two kilometers from Indicators through Whale Bay and into Manu Bay on the right swell. Featured alongside N'Gor in The Endless Summer, Raglan showed the world that New Zealand harbored world-class waves in a breathtaking setting. The volcanic rock bottom creates walls that roll with metronomic perfection, offering section after section of workable face. The drive from Auckland through lush Waikato farmland ends at one of the planet's most celebrated surf destinations, where the Kiwi surf community preserves a welcoming, grassroots culture despite international fame.
🇳🇿 One of Earth's longest lefts • Endless Summer legend • Kiwi soul
Offshore wind from 90° (E). Offshore range: 60°-130°. Best window: morning.
Year-round surf. Winter (Jun-Aug) most consistent at 82%.
Rocky entry. Can get very crowded. Strong rips.
2hr drive from Auckland. 8km from Raglan town center down Wainui Road.
Shipwreck Bay is New Zealand's remote reward—a long left point break at the end of Ninety Mile Beach in the far north that can produce rides lasting three minutes or more. The journey here requires commitment: a 4WD or lengthy beach walk through one of the world's most pristine stretches of sand. But that isolation preserves something increasingly rare: genuine solitude in world-class waves. The main left and the Peaks section further out both light up when distant groundswells arrive from the Tasman, offering the kind of soul-surfing experience that defined the sport before crowds and cameras.
🏝️ Three-minute rides • End of the world • Solitude reward
Ideal size: 1.5m. Too small below 0.5m, too big (closeout) above 2.5m.
Winter best (Oct peak). Receives distant groundswells.
🌀 Strong rips, 🚶 Difficult access, 🏝️ Remote
Strong rips. 4WD or long walk required. Remote location.
4WD required or long beach walk from Ahipara. Nearest bookable gateway is Kerikeri / Bay of Islands (KKE, Air NZ from Auckland, ~1.5hr drive). The closer Kaitaia strip (KAT, ~20km) is Barrier Air only and rarely sells through international itineraries.
Stent Road is Taranaki's crown jewel—a world-class right-hand point break that ranks among New Zealand's finest waves. The setup delivers everything: a hollow drop-in, a barrel section, and then a long, workable wall that lets surfers really unload. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Taranaki's perfect volcanic cone, this wave has an atmosphere matched by few places on Earth. The boulder bottom demands respect and the local crew has earned theirs, but surfers who demonstrate patience and lineup etiquette will find one of the Pacific's most complete point break experiences. The drive through rolling farmland and wild coastline is part of the journey.
🗻 Taranaki's finest • Volcanic backdrop • Complete point package
Works best with swells from 230° (SW). Workable range: 200°-270°.
Year-round but autumn/winter best for W/SW swells.
Boulder bottom. Gets crowded. Respect locals and lineup etiquette.
6hrs south of Auckland, 4hrs north of Wellington. ~90min from New Plymouth.
Mount Maunganui is the Bay of Plenty's consistent cornerstone—an east-facing beach break that enjoys a natural advantage over New Zealand's west coast spots: prevailing offshore winds. While the Tasman-facing breaks battle afternoon onshores, "The Mount" often stays clean all day, making it one of the country's most user-friendly waves. The iconic volcanic cone rises behind the beach, the vibrant holiday town offers every amenity, and multiple peaks along the main beach ensure there's space for everyone. Hart Street traditionally holds the best banks, while the Blow-Hole point section provides an alternative in southwest winds.
⛰️ All-day offshores • Bay of Plenty gem • Easy-access quality
Works best with swells from 45° (NE). Workable range: 20°-60°.
Offshore wind from 240° (WSW). Offshore range: 200°-280°. Best window: both.
Summer NE swells best. Prevailing offshore winds unlike west coast.
Popular beach - watch for swimmers. Rips in channels.
15min from Tauranga Airport. Multiple peaks along main beach.
Whangamata Bar is New Zealand's most celebrated beach break left—a river mouth wave on the Coromandel Peninsula that transforms into a world-class barrel machine when cyclone swells wrap into its perfectly angled shoreline. The wave offers a steep drop-in, a heavy barrel section, and enough length to make every successful ride feel earned. The river mouth channel provides a paddle-out path but also generates powerful currents that add to the intensity. Summer holidays see the lineup packed, but catch it at the right moment and Whangamata delivers waves that match anything on Earth.
🌊 Cyclone swell magic • Premier beach break left • Coromandel gem
Best in summer with NE swells. Works on cyclone swells.
Strong river mouth currents. Very crowded in summer holidays.
1hr from Tauranga. On Highway 25 on Coromandel Peninsula.
Wainui Beach is Gisborne's answer to Hossegor—a powerful, hollow beach break that produces some of New Zealand's best barrels when conditions align. The beach faces east, capturing everything from tropical cyclone swells to southern groundswells across an enormous window. Multiple sections—Stockroute, Whales, Schools, Pines—offer variety depending on conditions, and the quality can surprise visitors expecting the west coast to hold all of Kiwi surfing's best cards. Dangerous sweeps and powerful rips demand respect, but surfers who've paid their dues here speak of sessions that rival anywhere in the world.
🇳🇿 NZ's Hossegor • Hollow east coast • Multi-section variety
Works best with swells from 160° (SSE). Workable range: 95°-190°.
Year-round. Huge swell window from S to NE.
Dangerous beach with powerful sweeps. Can be very rippy.
Just outside Gisborne city. Multiple sections: Stockroute, Whales, Schools, Pines.
St Clair is cold water surfing at its most rewarding—Dunedin's main beach break exposed to the roaring forties, where consistent southern swells meet dedicated locals in 5mm wetsuits and booties. The wave offers both beach break peaks and a right-hand rock point section, providing variety for all conditions. What St Clair lacks in tropical warmth it compensates with wild beauty: the dramatic Otago coastline, the Southern Alps as a distant backdrop, and a surf community forged in conditions that would send fair-weather surfers running. This is New Zealand's deep south, where the waves are cold but the stoke runs hot.
❄️ Southern Ocean cold • Roaring forties power • Deep south dedication
Offshore wind from 0° (N). Offshore range: 320°-40°. Best window: morning.
Consistent S swells. Medium-high consistency year-round.
Rocky point on right side. Cold water - 5mm wetsuit needed.
23km from Dunedin Airport. Right in Dunedin city.
Mangamaunu is Kaikoura's most consistent reward—a fun right-hander that benefits from a deepwater trench funneling swell directly into its boulder bottom setup. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the snow-capped Kaikoura Ranges plunging into the sea, the scenery here rivals anywhere on Earth. The wave produces punchy A-frames that handle sizes up to two meters plus, while the marine-rich waters occasionally provide whale and dolphin sightings from the lineup. The cold water demands commitment, but surfers who make the three-hour drive from Christchurch are rewarded with world-class scenery and surprisingly consistent waves.
🐋 Kaikoura ranges backdrop • Deepwater trench magic • Wildlife encounters
Works best with swells from 150° (SSE). Workable range: 120°-190°.
Offshore wind from 270° (W). Offshore range: 240°-320°. Best window: morning.
Winter most consistent. Summer mostly flat.
Boulder bottom. Cold water. Can be fat on high tide.
3hrs north of Christchurch. Right next to Kaikoura Ranges.
Taylors Mistake is Christchurch's premier surf beach—a sheltered bay on the Banks Peninsula that produces quality left and right peaks when the banks align and offshore winds groom the faces. The name supposedly comes from a ship captain's navigational error, but there's no mistake about the waves: when conditions coincide, Taylors delivers powerful, barreling peaks that rival anything in the South Island. The 25-minute drive from the city passes through earthquake-rebuilt suburbs and over the Port Hills, arriving at a beach that transforms Cantabrians into committed surfers despite water cold enough to make teeth chatter.
⛵ Christchurch's best • Banks Peninsula gem • South Island barrels
Offshore wind from 270° (W). Offshore range: 240°-300°. Best window: morning.
Winter best (July peak). Clean waves 8% of time in July.
Can get busy when on. Rips and rocks. Cold water.
Best surf in Christchurch. 25min from CBD.
Back Beach is New Plymouth's punchy daily driver—a powerful beach break with shifting sandbars that produces surprising force for its size. The volcanic black sand creates steep, fast waves that reward quick reflexes and punish hesitation. When northeast winds blow offshore and chest-to-head-high swells fill in, Back Beach transforms into a quality surf destination right in the city. Nearby reef breaks on either side offer alternatives when the banks aren't cooperating, while Mount Taranaki looms over everything, providing one of surfing's most distinctive backdrops.
🌋 Taranaki power • Black sand punch • City center surf
Autumn/winter best. August peak consistency.
Strong rips. Popular beach - watch for swimmers.
Fitzroy Beach is New Plymouth's barrel factory—a popular beach break near the city's East End that produces excellent hollow waves when offshore winds align with the right banks. The wave favors high tide on the rise, when the sandbars connect to create left and right peaks with surprising tube potential. Less powerful than nearby Back Beach, Fitzroy offers a more forgiving learning curve while still capable of serious moments. The beach's popularity means you'll share waves, but the consistent quality and easy access make it a cornerstone of Taranaki surf culture.
🛢️ Barrel potential • High tide magic • Taranaki staple
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 255°-300°.
Ideal size: 1.1m. Too small below 0.3m, too big (closeout) above 2m.
Offshore wind from 135° (SE). Offshore range: 100°-170°. Best window: morning.
Winter best. June peak with 25% clean days.
Likely crowded when working. Rips present.
Muriwai Beach is Auckland's most accessible consistent wave—an exposed west coast beach break that receives equal doses of wind swell and groundswell year-round. The surf schools have discovered its reliable nature, but the beach is long enough to find space away from the crowds. A famous gannet colony perches on the cliffs at the south end, adding wildlife drama to every session. East to northeast winds blow offshore, creating conditions that range from beginner-friendly on mid tide to punchy walls for intermediates on high. The drive through Kumeu wine country makes even flat days worthwhile.
🪿 Gannet colony views • Auckland consistency • West coast access
Year-round consistency. Equal wind and groundswells.
Strong rips. Popular surf school spot. Gannet colony nearby.
45min from Auckland CBD. Exposed beach with consistent waves.
Opoutama is Mahia Peninsula's mellow gem—a beginner-friendly beach break that produces soft, fat waves perfect for learners and longboarders seeking an uncrowded alternative to New Zealand's more famous spots. The east coast location keeps it off most radar, which means even when it's working, you might have the lineup to yourself. Multiple peaks spread along the beach offer options, while the generally mellow conditions create a low-stress environment for progression. This is the kind of place where families can share waves without anxiety and the competitive pressure of busier breaks simply doesn't exist.
🏖️ Mahia mellow • Uncrowded learning • Family-friendly waves
Ideal size: 1.1m. Too small below 0.4m, too big (closeout) above 1.8m.
Offshore wind from 45° (NE). Offshore range: 20°-80°. Best window: morning.
Year-round with groundswells. Uncrowded even when working.
Some rips but generally mellow conditions.
46km from Gisborne Airport. Mahia is an east coast hidden gem.
Ocean Beach Hawkes Bay is the East Coast's shape-shifting canvas—a long stretch of beach and reef breaks where the constantly moving sandbars ensure no two sessions are ever quite the same. The year-round southeast groundswell exposure keeps waves arriving when other regions go flat, while the uncrowded nature means you can walk down the beach until you find your own peak. The Art Deco architecture of nearby Napier and the renowned Hawkes Bay wine region add cultural dimensions to surf trips here, creating a complete destination experience beyond the waves themselves.
🍷 Wine country waves • Ever-changing banks • Hawkes Bay solitude
Works best with swells from 140° (SE). Workable range: 100°-180°.
Shifting sandbars. Not crowded - spread along beach.
20km from Hastings. Multiple breaks along beach.
Playa Maderas is Nicaragua's most beloved intermediate wave—a fun beach break near San Juan del Sur that has become the heart of the country's growing surf scene. The wave offers consistent left and right peaks that work for all skill levels, from beginners finding their feet to experienced surfers looking for playful sessions. The vibe here is pure Central American warmth: sunset sessions, beachfront bars, and a community of international travelers who've discovered Nicaragua's incredible value proposition. When the southwest swells pump from April through October, Maderas delivers daily surfable conditions at a fraction of Costa Rica's prices.
🇳🇮 Nicaragua's heart • Consistent peaks • Budget surf paradise
SW swell season April-October. Consistent beach break.
Strong rips on bigger swells. Otherwise beginner friendly.
Near San Juan del Sur. Easy beach access.
Playa Santana is Popoyo's quieter neighbor—a quality beach break that offers the same consistent southwest swells without the crowds that have discovered the famous point. The wave provides excellent intermediate-level surfing on sandbars that shift with the seasons but remain reliable throughout the swell season. While others jostle for position at Popoyo, savvy surfers slip over to Santana and find space to spread out. The uncrowded nature is part of the appeal, as is the genuine local community that hasn't yet been transformed by tourism. This is what Nicaragua surf travel felt like before the crowds arrived.
🏄 Popoyo's secret • Uncrowded quality • Pre-boom vibes
Works best with swells from 215° (SW). Workable range: 185°-255°.
Offshore wind from 50° (NE). Offshore range: 10°-90°. Best window: morning.
Consistent SW swells. Less crowded than Popoyo.
Playa Remanso is Central America's safest beginner wave—a sheltered bay south of San Juan del Sur that catches smaller swells and transforms them into gentle, rolling walls perfect for first-time surfers. The wave is so forgiving that multiple surf schools have made this their home, introducing hundreds of newcomers to surfing each season. The protected nature of the bay means minimal hazards: no rocks, no strong currents, just warm water and consistent small waves. For families or nervous beginners, Remanso removes every excuse not to try surfing. The dirt road access adds just enough adventure to make it feel like discovery.
👶 Beginner paradise • Sheltered bay • Zero hazards
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 175°-235°.
SW swell season. Protected bay catches smaller swells.
South of San Juan del Sur. Dirt road access.
Manzanillo is Nicaragua's serious point break - a quality left-hander at Guacalito de la Isla that needs solid swell to turn on but rewards patience with long, workable walls over rocky reef. While the neighboring beach breaks work on any swell, Manzanillo requires size and period to show its true character. When conditions align, the wave offers one of the region's better point break experiences: defined takeoff zone, predictable walls, and enough length to really open up. The rocks and reef sections demand respect, but competent surfers will find this a welcome step up from the beginner-friendly alternatives.
🪨 Quality left point • Needs size • Nicaragua step-up
Works best with swells from 205° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-240°.
Offshore wind from 60° (ENE). Offshore range: 20°-100°. Best window: morning.
Needs solid SW swell. Best in peak season.
Near Popoyo. Private resort or boat access.
The Boom is Nicaragua's most celebrated barrel—a world-class A-frame beachbreak that has been likened to a miniature Puerto Escondido for its hollow, dredging peaks and startling consistency. Pioneered in the late 1990s, this wave earns its namesake season after season as Northern Nicaragua's premier tube-riding destination. The outside canyon magnetizes swells and creates textbook barrels that break close to shore, making it nearly impossible not to score a tube on a good day. Normal surfers get the wave of their lives here—just be ready for the power and the consequences.
⚡ Mini Puerto Escondido • World-class tubes • Nicaragua's best barrel
Works best with swells from 215° (SW). Workable range: 190°-260°.
Offshore wind from 80° (E). Offshore range: 45°-120°. Best window: morning.
SW swell season. Best March-October. Offshore 300+ days/year.
Heavy barrels with powerful closeouts. Strong rips on big days.
Chancletas Beach Resort area. 4WD recommended.
Puerto Sandino is Nicaragua's ultimate long left—a 300-yard ride that ranks among the longest waves in Central America when solid SSW swell arrives. The wave starts in front of a large rivermouth and peels down a mixed sand and reef bottom, offering barrel sections and wally walls throughout its extraordinary length. The magic size is around 8-10 feet on the face, where the wave truly comes alive. Boat access is highly recommended since the takeoff zone sits almost half a mile from shore. When conditions align, this is Central American perfection—long, powerful, and nearly empty.
🏄 300-yard rides • Nicaragua's longest • Boat access perfection
Needs solid SSW swell. Best 8-10ft. Incoming tide ideal.
Boat access recommended. Rock/reef sections along ride.
90 minutes drive from MGA airport. Requires boat access ($75/day).
Boat from rivermouth. Half-mile paddle otherwise.
Miramar Point is Northern Nicaragua's accessible quality left—a point break near León that offers consistent waves and multiple nearby breaks to explore. The wave itself provides workable walls over rocky reef, while the surrounding area includes Pipes (hollow beachbreak), Shacks (fast hollow left), and various other setups. Thanks to the Lake Nicaragua wind corridor, the area enjoys predominantly offshore winds year-round. The growing surf camp scene here offers an alternative to the southern Emerald Coast crowds while delivering similarly consistent conditions.
🏔️ Northern Nicaragua gem • Multi-break zone • Offshore wind corridor
Works best with swells from 210° (SSW). Workable range: 185°-250°.
Offshore wind from 75° (ENE). Offshore range: 30°-120°. Best window: morning.
Consistent SW swells. Offshore wind corridor from Lake Nicaragua.
Rocky point with reef sections. Booties recommended.
Near León. Multiple breaks in area including Pipes and Shacks.
Pipes is the hollow beachbreak gem in the Miramar zone—a wave that lives up to its name with dredging barrels on both the rights and lefts. The rights wedge up from the takeoff zone and break over mostly sand bottom, while the peeling lefts break over reef and demand more respect. When conditions align, Pipes gets very hollow and fast, especially on falling mid-tide or incoming low. The wave sits just up the beach from Miramar Point, making it easy to move between breaks and maximize your session.
🔥 Hollow tubes • Wedging rights • Northern Nicaragua barrel
Works best with swells from 220° (SW). Workable range: 195°-260°.
Offshore wind from 80° (E). Offshore range: 40°-125°. Best window: morning.
Best on falling mid-tide and incoming low. SW swell season.
The left breaks over reef. Can be shallow.
Up the beach from Miramar Point. Walk or short drive.
Poneloya is Northern Nicaragua's gateway wave—a forgiving point break near León city that introduces countless travelers to the country's exceptional surf scene. The wave works on smaller swells and all tides, providing consistent conditions for beginners and intermediates throughout the long season. Unlike the more isolated breaks further south, Poneloya sits in an actual beach town with local restaurants, accommodations, and genuine Nicaraguan culture. This is where León residents escape to the beach on weekends, creating an authentic atmosphere that tourist-focused zones sometimes lack.
🌴 León's beach • Beginner paradise • Local beach culture
Works best with swells from 210° (SSW). Workable range: 185°-255°.
Very consistent. Works on smaller swells. Year-round surfable.
Easy access from León city. Local beach town atmosphere.
El Transito is Nicaragua's exposed beachbreak discovery—an open-coast wave that picks up swell when other spots remain flat and delivers raw, uncrowded surf in a basic fishing village setting. The wave requires minimal swell to turn on thanks to its position on the coast, making it a reliable backup option during smaller periods. The atmosphere is pure rural Nicaragua: no fancy resorts, no surf camps, just local fishermen and the occasional traveling surfer who knows where to look. This is what surf exploration felt like before the crowds discovered Central America.
🎣 Fishing village vibes • Exposed swell magnet • Raw Nicaragua
Works best with swells from 210° (SSW). Workable range: 185°-260°.
Offshore wind from 85° (E). Offshore range: 45°-130°. Best window: morning.
Exposed location. Works on minimal swell. Consistent.
Strong rips on bigger days. Open beach exposure.
Dirt road from León area. Basic fishing village.
Masachapa is Nicaragua's authentic local surf scene—a fishing village south of the resort zone where Nicaraguan surfers gather on weekends to escape Managua and ride consistent beachbreak peaks. The wave quality matches nearby Montelimar, but the atmosphere couldn't be more different: this is working-class Nicaragua, with fresh-caught seafood, cold beer, and a community that's been surfing here for decades. For travelers wanting to experience Nicaraguan surf culture rather than the international backpacker scene, Masachapa delivers genuine local flavor.
🇳🇮 Local surf culture • Fishing village • Authentic Nicaragua
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 175°-245°.
Offshore wind from 65° (ENE). Offshore range: 25°-105°. Best window: morning.
Consistent. Local Nicaraguan surf scene.
Standard beachbreak rips on bigger days.
Fishing village south of Montelimar. Local scene.
Panga Drops is the Emerald Coast's swell magnet—a deep water reef break that catches and amplifies swell when other spots remain small. The wave offers long rides with wide open faces and a softer character than the nearby heavy reefs, making it excellent for progressive surfing rather than pure barrel hunting. Boat access via panga (local fishing boat) is required, which adds adventure while keeping crowds manageable. When the southwest pulse arrives, Panga Drops provides some of the most consistent quality surf in the entire region.
🚤 Swell magnet • Long rides • Boat access adventure
Works best with swells from 215° (SW). Workable range: 185°-260°.
Needs at least 12s period. Ideal: 17s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 55° (NE). Offshore range: 15°-95°. Best window: morning.
Deep water reef magnifies swell. Works all season.
Deep reef. Bull sharks in area. Boat access.
115 minutes drive from MGA airport. Requires boat access ($40/day).
Panga (boat) access from Popoyo area. Multiple operators.
Popoyo Outer Reef is Central America's legitimate big wave spot—a heavy left reef break that only shows its true form on solid southwest swells and transforms into Nicaragua's most challenging wave. While the inner reefs entertain intermediate surfers, the outer reef lurks offshore waiting for the big pulse. When it arrives, the wave jacks up over shallow reef and delivers long, powerful left barrels with serious consequences. This is not for the casual traveler—it's for experienced big wave surfers seeking Central America's heaviest wave.
⚡ Big wave Nicaragua • Central America's heaviest • Expert only
Needs significant swell. Peak season only. Expert conditions.
🪸 Sharp reef, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, ⚠️ Shallow, 🦈 Sharks
Heavy reef break. Long holddowns possible. Boat access.
120 minutes drive from MGA airport. Requires boat access ($50/day).
Boat access only. Serious big wave spot.
Lance's Left is the Emerald Coast's most accessible long left—a point break that provides 200+ yard rides on bigger swells and welcomes surfers of all skill levels. Unlike the heavy reef breaks nearby, Lance's is more forgiving and less barrel-prone, making it ideal for longboarders and intermediate surfers wanting to work on their rail game. The wave peels consistently down the point, offering multiple sections and plenty of time to set up turns. This is where you come when you want length over intensity, making it a perfect counterpoint to the region's heavier options.
🏄 200-yard rides • All skill levels • Emerald Coast longboard wave
Works best with swells from 220° (SW). Workable range: 195°-265°.
Consistent left point. Good for all season.
Part of Emerald Coast. Near Popoyo area.
Playgrounds is Nicaragua's version of Trestles—a cobblestone-bottom break that delivers rippable, open-face waves perfect for high-performance surfing and skill progression. The wave favors mostly lefts with barrel sections inside, but the real appeal is the workable walls that let you practice turns without the heavy consequences of the nearby reef breaks. For surfers wanting to progress their shortboard game in warm water with consistent conditions, Playgrounds provides the ideal training ground. This is where you come to work on your surfing, not just survive it.
🏋️ Nicaragua's Trestles • Progression paradise • Rippable walls
115 minutes drive from MGA airport. Requires boat access ($30/day).
Playa Hermosa is Nicaragua's best kept secret—a powerful beachbreak south of San Juan del Sur that features lots of peaks, long walls, and enough space to spread out even when it's pumping. The privately maintained access road keeps casual visitors away while delivering surfers to one of the longest beaches in the area. During swell season, Hermosa can get BIG, with double-overhead days that challenge even experienced surfers. The multiple peaks mean you can always find an uncrowded section, whether you want the heaviest barrel or a more forgiving wall.
🤫 Best kept secret • Powerful beach break • Uncrowded perfection
Works best with swells from 205° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-245°.
Most consistent in region. Can get big during peak season.
Strong rips on bigger swells. Long beach means space.
Private access road. Small fee. Worth it.
Playa Amarillo is Nicaragua's empty wave—an untouched beachbreak that delivers fun sand-bottom peaks to surfers willing to venture off the beaten path. The beach offers multiple takeoff zones, with a shallow reef section at the south end providing an alternative when you want something different. While the more famous spots in the region collect crowds, Amarillo remains blissfully overlooked. Minimal development means you'll likely share waves only with the occasional local or fellow explorer who discovered this quiet stretch of coast.
🏖️ Empty perfection • Untouched beach • Off the radar
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 175°-240°.
Uncrowded beach break. Shallow reef at south end.
Shallow reef section at south end of beach.
Near Playa Gigante. Walk from Hacienda Iguana.
Shacks is Northern Nicaragua's most challenging wave—a very fast, well-shaped left that breaks over sharp reef and can get extremely hollow when conditions align. The wave doesn't work well at low tide, where it sections out and gets dangerously shallow, but mid-to-high tide transforms it into a world-class barrel. This is the most difficult wave in the Miramar area when it's pumping, but also the most rewarding—surfers who can handle the speed and power will find some of the best tubes in Central America. Not for the faint of heart.
⚡ Sharp reef barrel • Expert only • Northern Nicaragua's heaviest
Works best with swells from 215° (SW). Workable range: 190°-255°.
Best mid-to-high tide. Sections out at low. SW swell season.
Sharp reef. Very shallow at low tide. Expert wave when pumping.
Astillero is Nicaragua's powerful rivermouth discovery—a hollow beachbreak in a fishing village that can hold waves up to 8 feet and beyond. The river constantly replenishes the sandbars, creating hollow peaks with rights typically outperforming lefts. The wave is known for its hollow barrels, double-overhead days, and point break sections that demand experienced surfers. What makes Astillero special is the combination of quality waves and authentic Nicaragua: no crowds, warm water, a working fishing village, and perfect conditions when the swell hits. 4WD access adds to the adventure.
🎣 Hollow rivermouth • Double overhead potential • Fishing village gem
Works best with swells from 205° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-250°.
Rivermouth replenishes sandbars. Best low-mid tide.
Strong rips on big days. 4WD access recommended.
Fishing village on Carazo/Rivas border. 4WD to the point.
Chacocente is Nicaragua's wildest surf setting—a quick, hollow beachbreak located inside a protected wildlife reserve that's also one of the world's most important Olive Ridley sea turtle nesting beaches. The wave offers barreling lefts and rights on a sandy bottom, surrounded by lush jungle and towering cliffs. With offshore winds grooming the waves 300 days a year and virtually no crowds, this is as close to surfing in paradise as it gets. The remote location means boat access is recommended, especially during rainy season when the dirt roads become challenging.
🐢 Wildlife reserve • Zero crowds • Jungle barrel paradise
Offshore 300 days/year. Best low-mid tide. Wildlife reserve.
Dirt road access dicey in rainy season. Boat access recommended.
Inside Chacocente Wildlife Refuge. Boat access recommended rainy season.
Asuchillo is Nicaragua's most consistent beachbreak—a world-class wave that hosted the 2024 ALAS Pro Tour and delivers reliable surf nearly year-round. Two rivers flow into the ocean here, carving out perfect sand plateaus that shape excellent waves. The spot sits just north of the main Lake Nicaragua wind corridor, so dawn sessions before the winds pick up are essential. When a south swell combines with offshore ENE winds, Asuchillo produces the kind of friendly, well-formed waves that work for everyone from beginners to pros looking for a fun session.
🏆 ALAS Pro venue • Year-round consistency • River-shaped perfection
Year-round consistency. Best at dawn before winds. S swell with E-ENE offshore.
Big Corn Island is Nicaragua's Caribbean surf frontier—a remote island 70km offshore where coral reef breaks come alive during the rainy season and tropical storm activity. The east coast faces the open Caribbean and needs east to northeast swell (45°-135°) to produce surfable waves, which occurs during sustained trade wind periods, tropical storms, or winter cold fronts pushing NE swell. While not as consistent as the Pacific coast, the reward is empty tropical perfection: crystal-clear water, uncrowded lineups, and the adventure of surfing Nicaragua's forgotten coast. Serious surf exploration.
🏝️ Caribbean frontier • Tropical storm swells • Empty reef breaks
Rainy season (May-Oct) brings best waves. NE winter swells secondary. Needs E-ENE Caribbean swell or tropical storm activity.
Coral reef breaks. Sharp and shallow. Remote island 70km offshore.
Fly to Corn Island Airport (RNI) from Managua. East coast reef breaks.
Little Corn Island is the ultimate off-grid surf adventure—a car-free Caribbean island where the rugged east coast transforms into dramatic surf when east-northeast swells (30°-130°) arrive from tropical storms or sustained trade winds. The island has no motor vehicles, so you'll walk everywhere through jungle paths to reach the breaks. Consistency is low, but when conditions align during peak rainy season (July-August), you'll surf empty reef breaks in crystal-clear Caribbean water with zero crowds. This isn't a surf trip destination—it's a tropical island escape that occasionally delivers waves.
🚶 Car-free paradise • Caribbean adventure • Tropical isolation
Works best with swells from 80° (E). Workable range: 30°-130°.
Needs at least 8s period. Ideal: 11s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 270° (W). Offshore range: 220°-320°. Best window: morning.
Peak rainy season (July-Aug) best. Needs sustained E-NE Caribbean swell. Very inconsistent.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 🏝️ Remote, 🚶 Difficult access
Coral reef. No motor vehicles on island—walk everywhere. Very remote.
Unknown minutes drive from RNI airport. Requires boat access ($15/day).
Fly to Big Corn (RNI), then panga boat to Little Corn. No vehicles on island.
Sunzal is El Salvador's gateway wave—a mellow right-hand point break that has introduced countless surfers to Central American surf travel. The wave is almost impossibly friendly: long, peeling walls that forgive poor positioning and reward persistence. Multiple surf camps have grown up around this reliability, creating a community of learners and improvers who return year after year. The rocky bottom demands awareness, and crowds during peak season can test patience, but for intermediate surfers seeking warm water and consistent waves, Sunzal remains one of the region's best-value propositions.
🇸🇻 El Salvador gateway • Mellow right • Surf camp central
Offshore wind from 15° (NNE). Offshore range: 340°-60°. Best window: morning.
South swell season March-October. Very consistent.
Rocky bottom. Gets crowded with surf schools.
Easy access from La Libertad coast road.
El Zonte is where surf culture meets the future—better known as Bitcoin Beach, this fun beach break gained global fame as the first community to adopt Bitcoin as currency, turning a sleepy surf town into an international phenomenon. But beyond the cryptocurrency headlines lies a genuinely good wave: consistent beach break peaks with point break options, warm water, and a growing community of digital nomads who've discovered you can work remotely, surf daily, and pay for everything in satoshis. The intersection of surf stoke and financial innovation creates an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Central America.
₿ Bitcoin Beach • Crypto meets surf • Future of travel
Offshore wind from 20° (NNE). Offshore range: 340°-70°. Best window: morning.
Consistent beach break. Year-round surf.
Some rocks at the point. Bitcoin Beach famous for crypto adoption.
Famous Bitcoin Beach. Growing surf community.
La Bocana is El Tunco's punchy rivermouth option - one of El Salvador's few left-dominant waves, though the A-frame can also throw a fast right. It needs S-SW swell and favors mid tide on the push, with enough power to make it unsuitable for beginners. Rocks, urchins, current, and a mostly local lineup make this a serious town wave rather than a mellow surf-school peak.
↙️ El Tunco rivermouth • Left-dominant A-frame • Local lineup
South swell season March-October. Left-dominant rivermouth can work year-round with enough S-SW energy.
🌀 Strong rips, 🪨 Rocks, 🦔 Urchins, 👊 Localism
Powerful rivermouth with rocks and urchins on the right. Respect the local crew.
Walk from El Tunco village; the break sits at the rivermouth south of town.
Km 59 is El Salvador's quality point break—a right-hander named for its marker on the coastal highway that delivers long, workable walls when solid south swells arrive. The wave is a step up from the mellower options nearby, requiring more commitment but rewarding with walls that allow real performance surfing. The local crew has earned respect in these waters, and visitors who approach with appropriate etiquette will find warm welcomes and lineup tips. The rocky point demands awareness, but for intermediate-plus surfers, Km 59 offers one of the region's best point break experiences.
📍 Highway marker classic • Quality right • Local crew
Needs bigger S-SW swells. Quality when it works.
Rocky point. Local surfers. Respect the lineup.
Named for kilometer marker on coastal highway.
Las Flores is the eastern El Salvador classic - a long right-hand sand point near El Cuco that can serve up workable walls for intermediates or heavier, faster sections when larger S-SW swells arrive. North wind is the clean setup, and the wave is less tide-sensitive than many rocky points, though low tide adds consequence around the takeoff. It is one of the highest-impact missing El Salvador entries because it anchors the Wild East surf zone and is often paired with nearby Punta Mango.
➡️ Wild East right • Sand point walls • El Cuco anchor
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 170°-235°.
Needs at least 11s period. Ideal: 15s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 0° (N). Offshore range: 330°-45°. Best window: morning.
S-SW swells are strongest March-October; November and December can be clean with smaller winter surf.
Strong currents on larger swells and rocks near the takeoff zone.
Eastern El Salvador near El Cuco and Chirilagua; road access from San Salvador.
Punta Mango is El Salvador's heavier Wild East right - a hollow point over boulders/cobblestones that needs a solid S-SW swell before it breaks properly off the rocks. North wind and incoming mid-to-high tide are the safest quality window. It is less forgiving and less consistent than Las Flores, but when the swell is big enough it offers one of the country's best barrel-focused right points.
➡️ Hollow Wild East right • Needs solid swell • Boat or 4WD mission
Needs solid S-SW swell and is most reliable during the March-October south swell season.
🪨 Rocks, 🌀 Strong rips, ⚠️ Shallow, 🏝️ Remote
Boulders and shallow sections near the top of the point. Strong currents when solid. Remote access.
Remote Wild East point west of Las Flores; 4WD road access or boat from El Cuco/Las Flores.
Sipacate is Guatemala's emerging surf destination—a consistent beach break on volcanic black sand that captures the southwest swells powering through Central America while remaining blissfully uncrowded. The wave is powerful for a beach break, with sandbars that create punchy peaks capable of genuine force. The growing scene here attracts pioneers who appreciate the authenticity of pre-development surf travel: basic facilities, genuine local culture, and the excitement of waves that few have ridden. For travelers willing to venture beyond the established destinations, Sipacate offers Central America as it used to be.
🇬🇹 Guatemala pioneer • Black sand power • Pre-development discovery
Offshore wind from 10° (N). Offshore range: 330°-60°. Best window: morning.
SW swell season. Black volcanic sand beach.
Strong rips on bigger swells. Powerful beach break.
Between El Paredon and Iztapa. Basic facilities.
Iztapa is Guatemala's off-the-beaten-path option—a fishing village better known for world-class sailfish than surf, where an uncrowded beach break rewards those willing to venture away from the mainstream. The wave receives the same south swells as neighboring spots but draws virtually no crowds, offering the rare experience of empty lineups in Central America. The fishing town atmosphere provides an authentic glimpse of Guatemalan coastal life, while river mouth sandbars create shifting peaks that change with the seasons. For adventurous travelers seeking solitude, Iztapa delivers.
🐟 Fishing town surf • Sailfish country • True solitude
Works best with swells from 195° (SSW). Workable range: 165°-235°.
Offshore wind from 15° (NNE). Offshore range: 330°-70°. Best window: morning.
Consistent south swells. Also famous for sailfish.
River mouth area. Some debris after rains.
Fishing village. Mostly used for sportfishing but has surf.
Playa Venao is Panama's surf capital—a consistent beach break on the Azuero Peninsula that has grown from sleepy fishing village to the country's most developed surf destination. The wave offers year-round consistency with southwest swells peaking through the rainy season, while the growing infrastructure of surf camps, hostels, and beach bars creates a complete travel experience. The six-hour drive from Panama City is worth it for surfers seeking warm water, uncrowded waves (by Costa Rican standards), and a scene that still maintains its laid-back character. This is Central American surf travel with Panamanian flair.
🇵🇦 Panama's surf capital • Azuero Peninsula • Growing scene
Offshore wind from 30° (NNE). Offshore range: 350°-80°. Best window: morning.
Year-round waves. SW swells peak May-November.
Strong currents when big. Otherwise mellow.
6hr drive from Panama City. Growing beach town.
Cambutal is Panama's wild card—a remote beach break beyond Venao that attracts surfers seeking bigger waves and genuine solitude. The seven-hour drive from Panama City filters out casual visitors, leaving the lineup to dedicated travelers who appreciate eco-lodges over beach bars and empty peaks over convenience. The wave is more exposed than Venao, catching more swell and producing larger, more powerful surf. The remoteness demands commitment but delivers the kind of uncrowded experience that has become rare in Central America. This is where Panama's surf frontier begins.
🏕️ Wild Panama • Seven hours from city • Frontier surfing
Offshore wind from 35° (NE). Offshore range: 350°-90°. Best window: morning.
SW swell season. More exposed than Venao.
7hr drive from Panama City. Off the beaten path.
Isla Grande is Panama's Caribbean secret—a reef break on the country's north coast that needs north swells to activate but rewards the right conditions with crystal-clear water and quality left-handers over shallow reef. Most visitors know this island as a weekend escape from Panama City for snorkeling and beaches, but a small community of surfers monitors winter swells from the North Atlantic. The boat ride from historic Portobelo adds adventure, while the island's laid-back atmosphere provides the perfect counterpoint to the Pacific coast's more consistent surf scene.
🏝️ Caribbean gem • North swell needed • Crystal clear
Works best with swells from 20° (NNE). Workable range: 350°-60°.
120 minutes drive from PTY airport. Requires boat access ($30/day).
Boat from Portobelo. Weekend getaway from Panama City.
Tamarindo is Costa Rica's most famous surf town—a once-sleepy fishing village transformed into an international beach destination where surf schools outnumber restaurants and the lineup can resemble a lesson plan. The wave itself is a friendly beach break perfect for beginners, with year-round warmth and consistent small to medium swells. The crowds are real, but so is the infrastructure: quality rentals, professional instruction, and a vibrant nightlife that makes this the most complete surf town experience in Central America. For first-time visitors to Costa Rica, Tamarindo provides a soft landing.
🌴 CR's famous town • Beginner paradise • Complete package
Works best with swells from 220° (SW). Workable range: 205°-260°.
Very crowded. Many surf schools. Strong rips.
Main tourist surf town. Easy access everywhere.
Playa Avellanas is Tamarindo's cooler cousin—a quality beach break famous for Lola's restaurant and the curious spectacle of pigs wandering the beach. The wave is a noticeable step up from Tamarindo's beginner-friendly peaks, with more power and better shape that attracts intermediate surfers seeking progression without the crowds. The dirt road access filters out day-trippers, preserving a more authentic vibe than the tourist strip. When larger swells arrive, "Little Hawaii" (the main peak) produces genuinely impressive waves that have hosted professional contests.
🐷 Beach pigs fame • Lola's legendary • Quality upgrade
Year-round. Bigger swells in rainy season.
Moderate rips. Less crowded than Tamarindo.
Dirt road from main highway. Famous Lola's beach bar.
Playa Grande is Costa Rica's conservation success story—a powerful beach break within Las Baulas National Park, protected as one of the world's most important leatherback turtle nesting sites. The wave doesn't care about its ecological significance, producing hollow, powerful peaks that can humble surfers used to the region's mellower options. The turtle sanctuary means restricted beach access during nesting season, but also means the beach has been preserved from the development that transformed neighboring areas. Surfing here feels like participating in something larger than just riding waves.
🐢 Turtle sanctuary • Powerful hollow • Conservation surf
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 195°-265°.
Offshore wind from 85° (E). Offshore range: 45°-125°. Best window: morning.
Year-round. Turtle nesting reserve - respect regulations.
Strong rips. Leatherback turtle nesting area.
Las Baulas National Park. Respect turtle nesting season.
Dominical is Costa Rica's wild southern showcase—a powerful beach break backed by primary jungle where humpback whales pass offshore during their annual migration. The wave doesn't mess around: heavy lips, strong rips, and a reputation for humbling those who underestimate its power. This is not a beginner beach, despite what some tourists discover the hard way. The jungle setting creates a mystical atmosphere, with toucans and monkeys providing the soundtrack and the kind of dramatic tropical scenery that defines postcard Costa Rica. Come prepared for a workout.
🐋 Whale watching waves • Jungle power • Not for beginners
Works best with swells from 205° (SSW). Workable range: 175°-245°.
Powerful beach break. Strong rips. Not for beginners.
Matapalo is Costa Rica's wild frontier—a remote reef break near the Osa Peninsula where Corcovado National Park holds 2.5% of the world's biodiversity. The six-hour drive from San Jose filters out anyone not fully committed, leaving the lineup to adventurous surfers who understand that shark activity and remote medical access are real considerations. The reef produces quality waves when solid swells arrive, but the experience is about more than surfing: scarlet macaws overhead, jungle reaching to the waterline, and the knowledge that you're riding waves in one of Earth's most biologically intense locations.
🦜 Corcovado wilderness • Remote reef • Biodiversity hotspot
6hr drive. Near Corcovado National Park.
Playa Cocles is Costa Rica's Caribbean alternative—a mellow beach break south of Puerto Viejo that offers a friendlier option when nearby Salsa Brava is pumping and intimidating. The wave works on the same northeast groundswells but breaks with less intensity, making it accessible to intermediate surfers and those who prefer fun over fear. The Caribbean coast's distinct vibe—reggae culture, Afro-Caribbean cuisine, and a more relaxed pace—provides a refreshing contrast to the Pacific side's busier surf scene. Winter is prime season, but summer swells can surprise.
🎶 Caribbean mellow • Salsa Brava alternative • Reggae vibes
Works best with swells from 80° (E). Workable range: 45°-95°.
Caribbean swell season. NE groundswells.
Mellow beach break. Good for all levels.
South of Puerto Viejo. Easier than Salsa Brava.
Tela is Honduras' most accessible surf destination—a Caribbean beach break that receives north swells during winter months and provides a rare opportunity to surf in a country better known for diving and ruins. The wave is beginner-friendly, with gentle peaks that won't punish mistakes, making it perfect for those seeking a cultural experience that happens to include waves. The nearby Lancetilla Botanical Garden and Garifuna villages add depth to any trip, while the uncrowded lineups offer a glimpse of Central American surf travel before the boom.
🇭🇳 Honduras surf • Caribbean discovery • Cultural depth
Works best with swells from 30° (NNE). Workable range: 0°-45°.
Generally mellow. Some rips when bigger.
Caribbean coast. Near Lancetilla Botanical Garden.
Ribeira d'Ilhas is competition surfing's European home—a long, makeable right-hand point in the Ericeira World Surfing Reserve that has hosted WSL events and produced some of surfing's most memorable European heats. The wave is more forgiving than neighboring Coxos, with long walls that allow surfers of various abilities to find workable sections. This accessibility means crowds, especially during events and summer months, but the quality is undeniable. The combination of reliable conditions, world-class shape, and easy access has made Ribeira one of the most photographed waves in Europe.
🏆 WSL venue • Accessible quality • Ericeira crown
Rocky bottom. Very crowded during contests.
Arrifana is the Algarve's most beautiful surf bay—a sheltered crescent of beach set into dramatic cliffs that protects from the northwest winds that plague the rest of Portugal's coast. The wave is beginner-to-intermediate friendly, with forgiving walls that allow progression without punishment. The steep road down creates a sense of arrival, and the dramatic scenery makes every session feel special. When the rest of the coast is blown out, Arrifana often stays clean, making it an essential part of any Portuguese surf trip itinerary.
🏖️ Sheltered Algarve gem • Cliff-framed beauty • Wind refuge
Works best with swells from 290° (WNW). Workable range: 260°-320°.
Protected from NW winds. Good winter option.
Rocky sides of bay. Strong rips on bigger days.
Praia do Cabedelo is northern Portugal's consistent alternative—a quality beach break in Viana do Castelo that receives the same Atlantic swells as the famous Peniche zone but attracts far fewer crowds. The wave works across a range of conditions, with sandbars that produce both lefts and rights depending on the banks. The river mouth influence creates interesting sandbar formations but also means debris after heavy rains. For surfers seeking the Portuguese experience without the tourist crowds, Cabedelo rewards the drive north with quality waves and authentic local culture.
🌊 Northern alternative • Peniche minus crowds • River mouth banks
Works best with swells from 300° (WNW). Workable range: 270°-325°.
Consistent winter swells. Can be good in summer too.
La Nord is Hossegor's heavy hitter—arguably Europe's most powerful beach break, where deep-water canyons funnel Atlantic swells into peaks that explode with oceanic force. This is not a wave for the timid: thick lips, heavy holddowns, and a reputation for humbling surfers who've never experienced true European power. The Landes coast's unique bathymetry creates conditions that rival reef breaks in intensity, while the shifting sandbars ensure no two sessions are identical. Autumn is prime season, when clean swells arrive and the summer crowds have departed.
💪 Europe's heaviest beach break • Canyon power • Autumn perfection
Autumn and winter best. Summer can be flat.
Guéthary is the Basque Country's big-wave playground—a powerful right-hand reef that comes alive when larger swells shut down the surrounding beach breaks. The wave is a magnet for solid Atlantic groundswell, producing long, powerful walls that have attracted big-wave surfers for generations. The harbor access and rocky reef demand experience and confidence, while the local crew maintains standards that visitors should respect. When the conditions align—solid swell, light winds, right tide—Guéthary produces some of the most impressive waves in French waters.
🏄‍♂️ Basque big wave • Harbor reef • Size magnet
Works best with swells from 305° (NW). Workable range: 280°-340°.
Offshore wind from 120° (ESE). Offshore range: 90°-160°. Best window: morning.
Big swell magnet. Works when other spots maxed out.
Lafitenia is the Basque coast's intermediate reward—a fun, long right-hand point that produces workable walls perfect for surfers looking to improve without the intimidation of heavier spots. The wave breaks along a rocky point near Saint-Jean-de-Luz, offering consistent shape that allows for practice and progression. The crowds can be intense, especially given the wave's accessibility and quality, but the long walls mean more waves to go around than typical peak breaks. For visitors to the French Basque Country seeking quality without consequence, Lafitenia delivers.
🇫🇷 Intermediate perfection • Long right walls • Basque Country classic
Works best with swells from 310° (NW). Workable range: 285°-345°.
Consistent through winter. Summer swells rare.
Anglet Les Cavaliers is Biarritz's accessible neighbor—a quality beach break that offers multiple peaks along a stretch of golden sand just minutes from the famous resort town. The wave is more approachable than Hossegor's heavy breaks, providing good conditions for intermediate surfers seeking quality French waves without the intimidation factor. The stretch of beaches along the Anglet coastline offers variety depending on banks and conditions, while the proximity to Biarritz provides excellent post-surf options. When autumn swells arrive and summer crowds depart, Les Cavaliers shines.
🏖️ Biarritz accessible • Multiple peaks • Autumn gold
Works best with swells from 295° (WNW). Workable range: 265°-325°.
Autumn through spring best. Can work in summer.
Rodiles is Spain's most celebrated sandbar—a long left-hand wave in an Asturian estuary that produces some of the longest, most perfect rides on the entire Atlantic coast. The protected location in the Villaviciosa estuary creates stable sandbars that peel with remarkable consistency when winter swells arrive from the north. The wave is accessible enough for intermediate surfers yet capable of world-class quality that has attracted professional attention. The lush green Asturian countryside and relaxed local culture add charm to what is arguably northern Spain's finest wave.
🇪🇸 Spain's perfect sandbar • Long lefts • Asturian gem
Works best with swells from 340° (NNW). Workable range: 315°-15°.
Winter North Atlantic swells. Protected estuary location.
Zarautz is the Basque Country's longest beach—over two kilometers of sand producing multiple peaks that cater to all skill levels and spread crowds across a wide area. The town has embraced its surf heritage, with quality surf shops, schools, and a culture that celebrates wave riding as central to local identity. The wave works across most tides and conditions, making it one of the region's most reliable options. Summer brings crowds and mediocre surf; autumn through spring delivers the real goods when Atlantic storms send consistent swells toward this north-facing coast.
🏘️ Basque surf town • Two-kilometer beach • All-level access
Works best with swells from 340° (NNW). Workable range: 325°-20°.
Sopelana is Bilbao's go-to surf beach—a cliff-backed stretch of sand easily accessible by metro from the city, where multiple peaks offer options for surfers of varying abilities. The convenience of urban access means crowds, especially given the region's passionate surf culture, but the beach is long enough to find space. The dramatic cliff backdrop adds visual drama to every session, while nearby cafes and changing facilities provide creature comforts. For visitors to Bilbao seeking a surf fix, Sopelana delivers reliable waves within easy reach of the Guggenheim.
🚇 Metro-accessible surf • Bilbao's beach • Urban convenience
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 285°-350°.
Meñakoz is the Basque Country's big-wave proving ground—a heavy right-hand reef that only awakens when massive winter swells slam the northern Spanish coast. This is not a recreational wave: rock-jump entry, powerful currents, and lips that detonate on shallow reef make Meñakoz the domain of experienced big-wave surfers only. The cliff-path approach and dramatic setting create an amphitheater effect for spectators, while the surfers below commit to one of Europe's most intimidating cold-water slabs. When Sopelana is maxed out, the big-wave crew heads to Meñakoz.
💀 Basque heavy water • Big-wave reef • Experts only
Works best with swells from 320° (NW). Workable range: 295°-350°.
Big wave spot. Only breaks on big winter swells.
Heavy wave, experts only. Rock jump entry.
Lahinch is Ireland's surf town—a County Clare beach that has served as the country's surf capital for decades, introducing generations of Irish surfers to the sport. The wave is remarkably consistent for its wild Atlantic location, receiving swells from across the ocean and producing workable peaks for all abilities. The town has embraced its surf identity completely, with quality shops, schools, and a community that revolves around wave-riding culture. The Cliffs of Moher nearby and traditional Irish pubs in town make this a complete surf destination experience.
🇮🇪 Ireland's surf capital • Atlantic consistency • Complete town
Works best with swells from 280° (W). Workable range: 250°-320°.
Consistent North Atlantic swells. October-March best.
Pampa Point is Donegal's quiet reward—a quality right-hand point break in Ireland's wild northwest that delivers excellent waves to those willing to embrace cold water and remote access. The wave breaks along a rocky point with dramatic scenery: green headlands, rugged coastline, and often not another soul in sight. The farm-track access and thick wetsuit requirements filter out casual visitors, leaving the lineup to dedicated surfers who understand that Ireland's best waves require commitment. When winter swells arrive and southeast winds blow offshore, Pampa Point is world-class.
🥶 Donegal solitude • Cold water commitment • Irish gem
Winter North Atlantic swells. Cold but uncrowded.
Rocky entry. Cold water - 5/4 wetsuit required.
Imsouane is Africa's longest wave—a right-hand point break in a sheltered Moroccan bay that produces rides of 300 meters or more when conditions align. The wave is impossibly perfect for longboarding: gentle, predictable walls that peel with metronomic precision, allowing surfers to walk the nose for what feels like forever. The fishing village setting adds authentic Moroccan atmosphere, while the growing surf tourism infrastructure provides comfortable bases. When northern swells arrive and the bay comes alive, Imsouane delivers an experience that justifies every minute of travel.
🏄‍♂️ Africa's longest • 300m rides • Longboard paradise
Winter North Atlantic swells. Warm water alternative.
Tamri is Morocco's quieter choice—a consistent beach and rivermouth break between Agadir and Essaouira that offers an escape from the crowds that have descended on Taghazout. The wave works on the same swells but attracts far fewer surfers, allowing for the kind of uncrowded sessions that are increasingly rare along this popular coast. The banana plantation backdrop and traditional village atmosphere provide authentic Moroccan culture, while the variety of peaks means there's usually something working regardless of exact conditions. For those seeking quality without queues, Tamri delivers.
🍌 Banana plantation backdrop • Taghazout escape • Uncrowded quality
Works best with swells from 305° (NW). Workable range: 270°-325°.
Winter swells. Less crowded than Taghazout.
Village access through banana plantation.
La Santa Right is Lanzarote's training ground—a quality right-hand reef break directly in front of the famous Club La Santa sports resort that provides consistent waves for athletes staying at the facility and visiting surfers alike. The volcanic reef creates predictable shape that works best at mid-tide, while the north-facing orientation catches the same winter swells that light up the entire island. Trade winds typically pick up after 10am, so dawn patrol is essential. The sharp lava reef and sea urchins add consequence to every session, but the wave rewards those who come prepared.
🏋️ La Santa sports hub • Lanzarote quality • Dawn patrol essential
Works best with swells from 330° (NNW). Workable range: 300°-355°.
Huntington Beach is Surf City USA—the epicenter of American surf culture that has hosted the US Open of Surfing and shaped the sport's identity for generations. The pier and surrounding peaks produce remarkably consistent waves, catching both winter northwest swells and summer southern hemisphere energy. This accessibility means crowds that can make every session a contact sport, but also means there's always someone to surf with and an energy that defines California beach culture. The wide sandy beach, vibrant downtown, and year-round warmth create the quintessential SoCal surf experience.
🇺🇸 Surf City USA • US Open home • California quintessential
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 240°-300°.
Winter NW swells best. Summer S swells also work.
Very crowded, especially at pier. Strong rips during big swells.
Easy beach access. Pier and multiple peaks.
Rincon is the Queen of the Coast—a world-class right-hand point break on the Ventura-Santa Barbara county line that produces some of California's longest, most perfect waves. When winter northwest swells wrap into this sheltered cove and north winds blow offshore, Rincon transforms into machine-like perfection, with rides connecting through multiple sections for hundreds of meters. The wave has shaped California surf culture for generations, producing champions and creating memories. The crowds are legendary when it's good, and the localism is real, but the wave quality justifies every bit of its reputation.
👑 Queen of the Coast • World-class point • California royalty
Peak winter. Needs big NW swell to wrap into the cove.
Extremely localized. Cobblestone bottom. Very crowded when good.
Park at Bates Beach. Short walk to point.
Black's Beach is Southern California's power center—a world-class beach break where Scripps Canyon focuses and amplifies swell energy to produce some of the heaviest waves on the West Coast. The deep submarine canyon offshore acts like a lens, concentrating wave energy and creating peaks that tower over typical beach breaks. Access requires a 300-foot cliff descent that filters out casual visitors, leaving the lineup to committed surfers willing to earn their waves. The nude beach above and the unrelenting power below combine to create one of California's most unique surf experiences.
🏔️ Scripps Canyon power • Cliff descent required • SoCal's heaviest
Best on big NW swells. Scripps Canyon focuses swell energy.
Steep cliff access (300+ stairs). Strong rips. Nude beach above.
Steep trail from Torrey Pines or La Jolla Farms.
Malibu is California's most iconic wave—the birthplace of the modern longboard and ground zero for 1960s surf culture that changed the world. Three sections (First Point, Second Point, Third Point) offer different experiences, but First Point is the showcase: long, peeling right-handers that allow nose-riding and trim surfing at its finest. The crowds are legendary, sometimes comically intense, but the wave quality on a clean summer south swell explains why generations of surfers have made this pilgrimage. Surfing history lives here.
🏄 California icon • Surfboard birthplace • Summer perfection
Summer S swells. Flat in winter unless big W wraps in.
Extremely crowded. Cobblestone point. Longboard priority.
Surfrider Beach parking. Three sections: First, Second, Third Point.
Swami's is Encinitas' spiritual surf experience—a classic right-hand reef break named after the Self-Realization Fellowship temple perched on the bluffs above. The wave breaks over a rocky reef, producing long walls that work on both winter west swells and summer south swells. The steep staircase descent and the golden temple domes create a unique atmosphere, while the quality and consistency have made this one of San Diego County's most beloved breaks. The mix of high-performance shortboarding and soulful longboarding coexists in the lineup.
🕉️ Spiritual surf • Temple backdrop • Year-round quality
Works on W swells in winter, S swells in summer.
Park at Self-Realization Fellowship. Long stairs down.
Windansea is La Jolla's historic heart—a reef break with an iconic palm-thatched surf shack that has served as the meeting point for San Diego's most committed surfers since the 1950s. The wave offers both lefts and rights over a rocky reef, producing quality walls when conditions align. The local crew has earned a reputation for protecting their break, and visitors should approach with appropriate respect. The shack, the parking, and the waves combine to create one of California's most atmospheric surf experiences.
🌴 Historic shack • La Jolla heart • Local crew
San Onofre is the birthplace of California surf culture—a mellow point break where surfers have gathered since the 1930s, establishing the beach-going, wave-riding lifestyle that would define a generation. Old Man's section provides gentle, forgiving waves perfect for longboarding, while the general atmosphere retains an old-school camaraderie that has become rare at most crowded California breaks. The summer south swells roll through with metronomic regularity, creating the kind of easy, accessible surfing that introduces beginners to the sport and keeps veterans returning for pure soul sessions.
🏕️ Original surf camp • Mellow longboard • Old-school soul
Ideal size: 1.1m. Too small below 0.5m, too big (closeout) above 1.8m.
Summer S swells best. Mellow longboard wave.
Crowded but friendly. Old-school longboard vibe.
San Onofre State Beach. Multiple areas: Old Man's, Dogpatch.
Oceanside is San Diego County's accessible workhorse—a consistent beach break where the pier focuses swell energy and creates reliable peaks for surfers of all abilities. The wide sandy beach provides easy entry and exit, while the pier itself creates a defined takeoff zone that helps beginners position themselves. Camp Pendleton to the north adds an interesting backdrop, and the working-class beach town atmosphere provides a more authentic California experience than some of the wealthier coastal communities. Year-round waves make Oceanside a reliable daily driver.
🌊 Pier consistency • All-level access • Working-class waves
Crowded near pier. Rips during big swells.
Ocean Beach SF is California's cold-water crucible—a powerful beach break directly exposed to the full fetch of the North Pacific, where San Francisco's most committed surfers battle freezing water, closeout sets, and the knowledge that great white sharks patrol these waters. The wave is not for the faint-hearted: massive paddle-outs, heavy lips, and conditions that can go from fun to survival in minutes. But when winter storms send clean groundswells and east winds blow offshore, OB delivers some of Northern California's most powerful beach break surfing.
🦈 Cold water crucible • North Pacific power • SF's test piece
Big swells year-round. Massive in winter storms.
Powerful closeouts. Cold water. Great white shark territory.
Steamer Lane is Northern California's premier point break—a world-class wave system with multiple sections that has served as the proving ground for generations of NorCal surfers. The lighthouse cliff provides a natural amphitheater for spectators, while the wave offers everything from gentle walls to hollow pits depending on section and swell. Cold water, kelp forests, and a fierce local crew add intensity to the experience. The Santa Cruz surf culture centered here rivals anywhere on Earth, with a history and competitive spirit that has produced champions and shaped the sport.
⬛ NorCal's finest • Lighthouse point • Cold-water champions
Winter swells best. Multiple sections from Indicators to The Point.
Rocky bottom. Heavy localism. Kelp can be thick.
Lighthouse Point. Cliff jumping entry or paddle from Cowell's.
Pleasure Point is Santa Cruz's mellow alternative—a long right-hand point with multiple peaks that provides a more approachable experience than intense Steamer Lane just up the coast. Multiple access points along East Cliff Drive allow surfers to choose their section, from the fast walls of Shark Cove to the more forgiving peaks toward the end. The vibe is generally friendly despite crowds, and the wave works on both winter northwest swells and summer south swells, making it one of the region's most versatile options.
😊 Santa Cruz mellow • Multiple peaks • Year-round variety
Works year-round. Multiple peaks along the point.
Rocky reef. Crowded but generally mellow vibe.
Multiple access points along East Cliff Drive.
Jalama is California's wind-swept secret—a remote Central Coast beach break that rewards those willing to drive the long, winding road to reach it with uncrowded waves and spectacular isolation. The famous Jalama burgers at the beach park provide sustenance, but the real draw is the wave: exposed to the full Pacific, capable of excellent conditions when winds cooperate. The problem is that winds rarely cooperate—fierce afternoon howlers are the norm—making morning sessions essential. For those who time it right, Jalama offers empty California perfection.
🌬️ Wind-swept isolation • Central Coast secret • Morning essential
Works best with swells from 260° (W). Workable range: 230°-300°.
Winter NW swells. Often windy afternoons.
Remote location. Strong rips. Wind can be fierce.
Jalama Beach County Park. Long windy drive.
Sebastian Inlet is Florida's crown jewel—the best wave on the state's east coast, where the jetty creates a defined point break that produces genuine quality when swells arrive. First Peak offers the showcase: fast, hollow walls that can rival waves from better-known surf destinations. Monster Hole, further inside, provides a heavier option on bigger swells. The inlet current can be brutal, and the rocks demand respect, but for Florida surfers seeking to prove their skills, Sebastian is the proving ground.
🏆 Florida's best • First Peak perfection • Jetty quality
Works best with swells from 80° (E). Workable range: 45°-120°.
Hurricane season and winter cold fronts.
Strong inlet current. Rock jetty on north side.
Sebastian Inlet State Park. North and south sides.
New Smyrna Beach is Florida's consistent cornerstone—the most reliable surf on the state's east coast, where sandbars produce workable waves more days per year than anywhere else in the region. The drive-on beach access and inlet peaks attract crowds, while the designation as "shark bite capital of the world" adds a certain frisson to every session. The bites are typically minor—more nuisance than danger—but they keep things interesting. For Florida surfers seeking daily waves without the drive to Sebastian, New Smyrna delivers consistent mediocrity with occasional excellence.
🦈 Shark bite capital • Florida consistent • Drive-on beach
Works best with swells from 70° (ENE). Workable range: 30°-110°.
Hurricane season best. Winter cold fronts.
Shark bite capital of the world. Many attacks but rarely serious.
Cape Hatteras is the East Coast's swell magnet—a remote barrier island jutting into the Atlantic that catches more swells than any other US East Coast location. The lighthouse backdrop provides iconic imagery, while Cape Point and various beach breaks along the National Seashore offer variety depending on conditions. Hurricane season brings the goods, winter nor'easters fill in the gaps, and the relative remoteness keeps crowds manageable. For East Coast surfers seeking consistent waves without the California crowds, Hatteras rewards the drive.
🏗️ East Coast's best • Lighthouse icon • Swell magnet
Works best with swells from 90° (E). Workable range: 45°-150°.
Ideal size: 1.8m. Too small below 0.6m, too big (closeout) above 3m.
Hurricane season and nor'easters. Best East Coast consistency.
Strong rips. Remote barrier island. Limited services.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Many peaks.
Montauk is New York's surf escape—the end of Long Island where city surfers flee for quality waves and the illusion of wilderness. Ditch Plains is the main draw: a beach break that catches south swells and wrapping hurricane energy, producing some of the best waves in the Northeast. The cold water, rocky points, and occasional hollow sections add seriousness to what might otherwise be a beach town vibe. For NYC surfers, the three-hour drive to Montauk is a pilgrimage worth making when the forecast shows promise.
🗽 NYC escape • End of Long Island • Hurricane season gold
Works best with swells from 160° (SSE). Workable range: 120°-200°.
Hurricane season and fall nor'easters best.
Ditch Plains and various beach access points.
Ruggles is New England's legendary wave—a heavy right-hand reef break in Newport that only comes alive when solid swells push into Rhode Island's south-facing coast. When it turns on, Ruggles produces world-class barrels over shallow reef with Gilded Age mansions as a backdrop. The localism is fierce, the conditions fickle, and the danger real—shallow reef and rocks on the inside make every wipeout consequential. But for New England surfers who have earned their place in the lineup, Ruggles represents the pinnacle of Northeast surfing.
🏛️ New England legend • Mansion backdrop • Needs size
Hurricane season best. Needs solid swell to break.
Heavy localism. Shallow reef. Rocks on inside.
Long Beach is New York City's most accessible surf—an LIRR-reachable beach break where city dwellers can score waves without a car. The wave is a standard beach break with multiple peaks, nothing special but consistent enough to build a dedicated local community. Summer crowds can be intense, but fall hurricane swells bring the goods and thin the crowds. For New Yorkers seeking regular water time without the Montauk commitment, Long Beach provides a reliable daily driver.
🚃 NYC accessible • Train to waves • Urban surf
Crowded in summer. Rips during bigger swells.
LIRR accessible. Multiple beach entries.
Tofino is Canada's surf capital—a Pacific Rim National Park beach where temperate rainforest meets consistent North Pacific swells to create one of the world's most atmospheric surf destinations. The water is brutally cold, requiring 5mm wetsuits even in summer, but the waves are remarkably consistent and the scenery is world-class: old-growth forests, bear-frequented beaches, and a genuine wilderness feel that has become rare in developed surf destinations. The drive from Victoria is long but beautiful, and the rewards justify every minute.
🇨🇦 Canada's surf capital • Rainforest meets ocean • Cold consistency
Year-round swell but winter is most consistent.
Cold water. Remote. Bear and wolf country.
Pacific Rim National Park. Multiple access points.
Sayulita is Mexico's surf town sensation—a once-sleepy fishing village that has transformed into the country's most popular beginner surf destination. The right-hand point break produces gentle, forgiving waves perfect for learning, while the vibrant town offers everything from taco stands to boutique hotels. The party atmosphere and crowds can overwhelm during peak season, but for those seeking warm water, consistent small waves, and Mexican beach culture, Sayulita delivers the complete package.
🌮 Mexico surf town • Beginner point • Party vibes
Summer S swells from Southern Hemisphere storms.
Beach access from town. Walk across river.
Taapuna is one of Tahiti's premier reef passes—a powerful left-hander that delivers world-class barrels when South Pacific groundswells march through. The wave breaks over a shallow reef shelf, throwing thick lips and creating tube riding opportunities that rival the island's more famous breaks. While not as heavy as Teahupo'o, Taapuna demands respect—the reef is sharp, the lips are heavy, and the local crew knows every section. For experienced surfers seeking Tahitian perfection without the Teahupo'o intensity, Taapuna delivers authentic South Pacific power in a slightly more forgiving package.
🇵🇫 Tahitian excellence • Reef pass power • World-class left
Winter season (May-Oct). Consistent SW groundswells.
Dangerous reef. More crowded than other Tahiti spots.
Papara provides a refreshing contrast to Tahiti's heavy reef breaks—a beginner-friendly beach break on the island's south coast where black volcanic sand meets warm Pacific waters. The wave offers mellow peaks that work across all tide stages, making it ideal for learners and longboarders seeking something less intense than the island's famous reef passes. The setting is quintessentially Tahitian: palm trees, black sand, and crystalline water, without the reef hazards that make other spots so challenging. For families or surfers needing a mellower session between reef adventures, Papara is Tahiti's forgiving side.
🖤 Black sand beach break • Beginner-friendly • Mellow vibes
Winter south swells. Good for beginners to intermediate.
Papenoo sits on Tahiti's north coast where a mountain river meets the sea—a rare spot that catches North Pacific energy during the summer hemisphere winter. This rivermouth setup creates shifting sandbars and reef sections that offer variety depending on conditions and swell direction. When north swells pulse through, Papenoo provides an alternative to the island's south-facing waves, extending the surf season for those based in Tahiti. The black sand beach, mountain backdrop, and less-crowded lineup make it feel more remote than its proximity to Papeete suggests.
🏔️ North shore Tahiti • Rivermouth variety • North swell catcher
Works best with swells from 340° (NNW). Workable range: 300°-20°.
Summer season (Nov-Mar). North Pacific swells.
Rivermouth with strong currents on bigger days.
Temae is Moorea's most challenging wave—a fierce right-hander breaking over shallow reef in one of the world's most beautiful settings. When south swells wrap around Tahiti's sister island, Temae transforms into a powerful, hollow wave that demands commitment and skill. The paddle out from Temae Beach is straightforward, but the wave itself is not—shallow reef, fire coral, and resident sharks add consequence to every session. For experienced surfers willing to handle the intensity, Temae offers world-class barrels in a tropical paradise setting that feels like surfing inside a postcard.
🦈 Moorea's fierce right • Shallow reef power • Paradise intensity
Ideal size: 1.4m. Too small below 0.8m, too big (closeout) above 2m.
Autumn/Winter best. April often cleanest.
Shallow reef. Fire coral and sharks present.
10 minutes drive from MOZ airport. Requires boat access ($50/day).
15-20 min paddle or short boat ride from Temae Beach.
Hauru Point sits on Moorea's northwest corner, catching North Pacific swells during the Southern Hemisphere summer when the island's south-facing breaks go quiet. This consistent left-hander breaks over reef in a stunning setting—the iconic Moorea peaks rising behind, turquoise lagoon water, and typically uncrowded lineups. While not as intense as Temae, Hauru still demands respect with its shallow reef and occasional shark visitors. For surfers based in Moorea during the off-season or seeking alternatives when south swells fade, Hauru Point delivers reliable waves in one of the world's most beautiful locations.
🏝️ Moorea's northwest gem • North swell catcher • Uncrowded paradise
Boulders is Samoa's crown jewel—a world-class left-hand point break that produces some of the South Pacific's longest and most powerful rides. When solid southeast groundswells march across the Pacific, Boulders transforms into a 150-meter mechanical freight train, with thick lips detonating over boulders and coral. The wave handles serious size and rewards committed tube riders with extended barrels and room to maneuver. Located near the Salani Surf Resort area, Boulders has earned its reputation as one of the most consistent and high-quality waves in the Pacific Islands.
🔥 Samoa's crown jewel • 150m point perfection • Big wave potential
Ideal size: 3.3m. Too small below 1.5m, too big (closeout) above 5m.
Heavy wave over boulders and coral. Long hold-downs possible.
Accessible from Salani Surf Resort area.
Coconuts is a picture-perfect mechanical right-hander that epitomizes the Samoan surfing experience—hollow barrels breaking over coral reef with palm-fringed shores and crystal-clear water. Accessed by boat from the iconic Coconuts Beach Club, this wave delivers consistent, workable tubes when south swells hit the coast. The setup is idyllic: tropical warmth, uncrowded lineups, and waves that feel almost too perfect to be real. For surfers seeking the quintessential South Pacific barrel experience without the crowds of more famous destinations, Coconuts delivers pure tropical stoke.
🥥 Picture-perfect rights • Tropical barrel machine • Resort access
Unknown minutes drive from APW airport. Requires boat access ($80/day).
Nu'usafe'e Island—also known as Devil's Island—is Samoa's secret weapon for when the trade winds blow out every other spot. This uninhabited paradise island sits offshore, sheltered from the prevailing southeast trades that ruin mainland waves. When the wind is wrong everywhere else, Nu'usafe'e offers pristine, glassy barrels over coral reef with no one around for miles. The boat ride to this Robinson Crusoe setup is part of the adventure. For surfers chasing empty perfection in an unspoiled tropical setting, Devil's Island lives up to its legendary reputation.
😈 Devil's Island • Trade wind shelter • Empty tropical perfection
Works best with swells from 140° (SE). Workable range: 110°-170°.
Offshore wind from 315° (NW). Offshore range: 270°-360°. Best window: both.
Works when other spots are blown out by trades.
Unknown minutes drive from APW airport. Requires boat access ($100/day).
Boat from mainland. Uninhabited paradise island.
Ha'atafu Beach is Tonga's surfing epicenter—a powerful left-hand reef break on Tongatapu's western shore that catches the best of the Tasman Sea's winter groundswells. The wave breaks over shallow coral, throwing heavy lips and creating barrel opportunities that belie the Kingdom's peaceful reputation. This is the most accessible and consistent break in Tonga, drawing the small local crew and adventurous traveling surfers who venture to this remote Polynesian nation. The setting is quintessentially Tongan: warm water, friendly locals, and waves that arrive with surprising power from storms south of New Zealand.
🇹🇴 Tonga's premier break • Tasman Sea power • Kingdom of waves
Winter SW groundswells from Tasman Sea storms.
Beach access. Most popular surf area in Tonga.
The Peak sits just down the reef from Ha'atafu, offering a dependable right-hander that provides the opposite option when you've had your fill of lefts. Working on similar southwest swells from the Tasman Sea, The Peak delivers consistent, workable waves over coral reef with typically less intensity than its famous neighbor. The lower crowd factor (Tonga's crowds are minimal to begin with) and accessible nature make it an ideal warm-up spot or alternative when Ha'atafu gets crowded by the handful of surfers who venture this far.
🎯 Ha'atafu's right twin • Lower intensity • Uncrowded alternative
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 195°-255°.
Pikinini is Papua New Guinea's most fearsome wave—a fast, heavy barreling right that explodes over extremely shallow reef near Kavieng. When northwest swells arrive from the North Pacific, Pikinini produces up to 200-meter rides that require precision, commitment, and reef booties. The wave jacks out of deep water and immediately hits the shallow shelf, creating thick barrels with zero margin for error. Part of the Kavieng surf management program, Pikinini represents frontier surfing at its most raw—empty lineups, world-class waves, and the kind of adventure that reminds you why you started surfing.
🇵🇬 PNG's heaviest • 200m barrel rides • Extreme shallow reef
Works best with swells from 300° (WNW). Workable range: 270°-340°.
Nov-Apr season. NW swells from North Pacific.
Extremely shallow. Reef booties essential. Remote.
Unknown minutes drive from KVG airport. Requires boat access ($100/day).
Boat from Kavieng. Part of surf management program.
Nusa Left—also known as Karanas—is Kavieng's premier left-hand wave, a fast barreling tube that jacks out of deep water and immediately pitches over shallow reef. The wave offers a unique setup where you're floating in comfortable depth until suddenly dropping into a heavy, draining barrel that demands quick feet and confidence. Accessed by boat from Kavieng or the legendary Lissenung Island, Nusa Left delivers the goods when west swells hit the New Ireland coast. For surfers seeking uncrowded perfection in one of the world's most remote surf destinations, this is PNG at its finest.
🌊 Deep water takeoff • Shallow barrel • PNG perfection
Nov-Apr season. Reliable barrelling left.
Very shallow end section. Deep water take-off.
Ral Island serves as Kavieng's swell magnet—the spot that works when everywhere else goes flat. This north-facing reef picks up any trace of swell moving through the region, providing consistent waves when the more famous breaks need bigger energy. The wave itself offers fun, user-friendly peaks over coral reef, making it an excellent warm-up spot or backup option for days between swells. The remote island setting delivers that classic PNG experience: empty lineups, crystal-clear water, and the satisfaction of surfing waves most people will never see.
🧲 Kavieng's swell magnet • Consistent backup • Remote island vibes
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 330°-30°.
Swell magnet - works when everywhere else is flat.
Nago Island is a high-quality reef peak in the Kavieng pass that offers both left and right options over shallow coral. The left is the primary draw, delivering lip-bashing wall sections that link into a tucking inside barrel, while the right is more fickle but can produce charging hollow waves when conditions align. Part of the Kavieng surf zone accessed via Nusa Island Retreat, Nago works on northwest swells from the North Pacific and can deliver rides up to 300 meters on the best days. With zero crowds and crystal-clear tropical water, it epitomizes the PNG frontier surf experience.
🌴 Kavieng reef peak • L+R options • 300m rides possible
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 270°-360°.
Offshore wind from 180° (S). Offshore range: 150°-210°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Apr primary. NW swells from North Pacific storms.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 🦈 Sharks, 🏝️ Remote
Shallow coral reef. Sharks and sea snakes present.
Stormrider, WannaSurf, surf-forecast.com
Boat from Nusa Island Retreat or Kavieng.
Long Long is named for exactly what it delivers—an exceptionally long right-hand wave that can wall up for 200 to 500 meters when strong west-northwest swells push into the Kavieng pass. Often compared to Bells Beach for its mellow, walling character, Long Long rolls in from deep water over submerged reef, offering generous open faces perfect for drawn-out carves and longboard lines. The catch is consistency—it needs a strong swell to break and when it does, it rewards patient surfers with one of the longest rides in Papua New Guinea. Located just 2km from Nago Island, it completes the Kavieng reef pass lineup.
🏄 200-500m walling right • Bells Beach vibes • Named for its length
Offshore wind from 45° (NE). Offshore range: 20°-70°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Apr. Needs strong W-NW swell to break. Low consistency.
Coral reef bottom. Sharks present. Remote location.
Boat from Nusa Island Retreat or Kavieng. 2km from Nago.
Swimming Pools is exactly what the name suggests—a mellow, crystal-clear right-hander near Tavarua that feels like surfing in an aquarium. While Cloudbreak and Restaurants grab the headlines, Swimming Pools offers a more accessible alternative that works for all skill levels. The wave peels predictably over coral reef in water so clear you can watch reef fish below while waiting for sets. For surfers staying at Tavarua or visiting by boat from Denarau, Swimming Pools provides the perfect warm-up session, afternoon decompression, or introduction to Fijian reef surfing.
🏊 Crystal clear perfection • All-levels friendly • Tavarua bonus
Desperations earned its name from surfers seeking an alternative when Cloudbreak and Restaurants get too crowded or maxed out. This reliable left-hander near Namotu Island works in similar conditions to Fiji's famous breaks but with a fraction of the crowd. The wave offers good barrel sections and workable walls over coral reef, providing quality sessions when the A-list spots are packed. For surfers staying at Namotu or exploring the Mamanuca reef system, Desperations delivers solid Fijian reef surfing without the competition for waves.
🎯 Crowd escape valve • Reliable left • Namotu alternative
Fiji winter season. Works in similar conditions to Cloudbreak.
Coral reef. Part of Namotu Island access.
Palikir Pass sits in Pohnpei's reef pass system alongside the legendary P-Pass, offering a world-class right-hander that holds good size when north swells push through Micronesia. The wave breaks over coral in a remote setting where sharks patrol the channels and the nearest crowd is thousands of miles away. When P-Pass is maxed out or crowded (by Pohnpei standards—maybe three people), Palikir provides an excellent alternative with its own quality barrels and walls. For surfers who've made the commitment to reach this remote destination, Palikir Pass rewards with uncrowded perfection.
🦈 P-Pass neighbor • World-class right • Remote Micronesian perfection
Works best with swells from 20° (NNE). Workable range: 350°-50°.
Unknown minutes drive from PNI airport. Requires boat access ($150/day).
Manu Bay is the inside section of New Zealand's famous Raglan point system—a long, peeling left that extends the ride from Indicators down to the harbor. The wave is slightly more forgiving than the outside sections while still delivering the machine-like walls that made Raglan a surfing icon. On connecting swells, surfers can ride from Indicators through Whale Bay and into Manu Bay for some of the longest lefts in the world. The Raglan town vibe, easy access, and consistent waves make Manu Bay a Kiwi surfing rite of passage.
🥝 Raglan's inside section • Endless lefts • Kiwi icon
Reef Road is a Florida anomaly—one of the only true reef breaks in a state dominated by beach breaks. When solid northeast swells hit Palm Beach County, Reef Road's limestone ledges create hollow, barreling right-handers that feel more Caribbean than Florida. The wave needs significant swell to break properly, making it an event surf spot rather than a daily driver. When it's on, the local crew descends quickly, and visitors should bring booties for the shallow reef. For Florida surfers seeking tube time without leaving the state, Reef Road delivers rare barrels.
🪸 Florida's reef break • Rare limestone barrels • Northeast swell magic
Works best with swells from 70° (ENE). Workable range: 45°-110°.
Offshore wind from 280° (W). Offshore range: 250°-320°. Best window: morning.
Needs significant NE swell to break properly.
Shallow limestone reef. Booties recommended.
New Smyrna Beach Inlet holds the dubious title of "Shark Bite Capital of the World"—a statistic that hasn't stopped generations of Florida surfers from making this their home break. The inlet-enhanced sandbars create consistent, user-friendly waves that work on minimal swell, making NSB one of Florida's most reliable surf zones. The sharks are plentiful but the bites are rarely serious, and most locals consider the risk just part of the Florida surfing experience. Beach driving is allowed with a permit, and the laid-back vibe makes NSB a quintessential East Coast surf town.
🦈 Shark bite capital • Consistent sandbars • Florida surf culture
Works best with swells from 75° (ENE). Workable range: 45°-120°.
Needs at least 7s period. Ideal: 11s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 270° (W). Offshore range: 240°-310°. Best window: morning.
Hurricane swells and cold fronts provide best surf.
Shark bite capital of the world. Strong inlet currents.
Cocoa Beach Pier is where East Coast surfing was born and where Kelly Slater grew up perfecting the skills that would make him the greatest surfer of all time. The waves are rarely spectacular—mostly small, mushy peaks that teach you to generate speed from nothing—but the history and community make up for it. The pier creates sandbars that focus whatever swell arrives, and hurricane season can produce legitimately good surf. For anyone wanting to understand Florida surf culture or trace the roots of an 11-time world champion, Cocoa Beach is a pilgrimage.
🏆 Kelly Slater's home break • East Coast birthplace • Florida surf history
Hurricane season best. Home of Kelly Slater.
Jacksonville Beach Pier anchors Northeast Florida's surf scene—a consistent beach break that catches most swells pushing down the Atlantic seaboard. The pier creates sandbars that focus waves on otherwise flat stretches of beach, providing reliable peaks through hurricane season and winter cold front swells. Jax Beach has developed a strong surf community with local shapers, dedicated crews, and a competitive scene that punches above its weight for Florida. The water gets noticeably cooler than South Florida, and the waves can pack surprising punch when conditions align.
🌊 Northeast Florida's hub • Consistent pier break • Strong surf community
Hurricane swells and winter cold fronts.
Wrightsville Beach is North Carolina's surfing epicenter—the most popular and accessible wave in a state blessed with quality beach breaks. The consistent sandbars create reliable peaks year-round, with hurricane season and winter low-pressure systems producing the best conditions. The Crystal Pier area focuses swell and creates organized lineups that support a thriving local scene. Wrightsville's proximity to Wilmington brings a college-town energy, and the surf community here has produced talented competitors and shapers who represent NC on the national stage.
🌀 NC's surf hub • Consistent sandbars • Crystal Pier quality
Hurricane season and winter low pressure systems.
Cape Hatteras occupies the most favorable position on the East Coast—a bend in the coastline where the Outer Banks jut into the Atlantic, intercepting swells that miss everywhere else. The iconic striped lighthouse stands watch over miles of sandbars that transform into powerful beach breaks when hurricanes track offshore or winter nor'easters sweep through. The remote location within Cape Hatteras National Seashore means fewer crowds and more empty peaks for those willing to make the drive. For serious East Coast surfers, Hatteras represents the closest thing to consistent, quality surf this side of the Caribbean.
🦓 The lighthouse • Prime swell window • East Coast's best position
Works best with swells from 130° (SE). Workable range: 90°-180°.
Offshore wind from 315° (NW). Offshore range: 280°-350°. Best window: morning.
Hurricane season epic. Winter brings consistent swell.
National Seashore. 4WD beach access available.
Jennette's Pier stands as the Outer Banks' surfing landmark—a modern concrete pier in Nags Head that creates reliable sandbars and serves as the region's forecasting hub with live webcams tracking every swell. The pier's position catches most Atlantic energy, from hurricane swells that create overhead barrels to winter cold front waves that keep the locals in the water year-round. The adjacent Jennette's facilities have become a gathering point for OBX surf culture, connecting visiting surfers with local knowledge and conditions updates.
📹 OBX landmark • Live webcam central • Consistent sandbars
Works best with swells from 90° (E). Workable range: 60°-110°.
Best during hurricane season and winter storms.
S-Turns is named for the serpentine curves in Highway 12 near Rodanthe—and for the winding tubes that form along this stretch when hurricane swells unload on the Outer Banks. This is one of the most consistent sections of the OBX, positioned to catch swells from multiple directions and offering empty peaks spread across miles of beach. The remote location means fewer crowds than the northern beaches, but also means commitment to the drive. When conditions align, S-Turns delivers some of the best waves on the East Coast, with powerful barrels and workable walls that reward the dedicated.
🛣️ Highway 12 curves • Remote OBX power • Hurricane season glory
Works best with swells from 100° (E). Workable range: 70°-150°.
Folly Beach Pier is South Carolina's surfing epicenter—the most recognized wave in a state that flies under the East Coast radar but delivers quality surf when conditions align. The pier creates sandbars that focus whatever swell arrives, from late-summer hurricane energy to winter cold fronts pushing down from the northeast. Charleston's proximity brings a unique surf culture that blends Southern hospitality with competitive lineups when it's firing. For anyone exploring East Coast surfing beyond the Florida-to-North-Carolina corridor, Folly Beach Pier proves South Carolina deserves its spot on the map.
🌴 Charleston's wave • Southern hospitality • SC surf culture
Works best with swells from 130° (SE). Workable range: 90°-170°.
The Washout earned its name from a section of road that eroded away years ago—and earned its reputation from the quality sandbars that formed in its wake. This local favorite sits at the east end of Folly Beach, away from the pier crowds, where dedicated Charleston surfers gather for dawn patrols and post-work sessions. The wave itself is typical East Coast beach break, but the tight-knit community and consistent sandbars make it feel like something more. Free parking and a less touristy vibe cement The Washout as the locals' choice on Folly.
💪 Local favorite • East end quality • Charleston crew
Hurricane season best. Named for eroded section.
Virginia Beach First Street has hosted the East Coast Surfing Championships since 1963, making it the longest-running surf contest in the country and a landmark in American surfing history. The wave itself is nothing special—mushy beach break peaks typical of the mid-Atlantic—but the event and the community it spawned transformed Virginia Beach into an East Coast surf hub. When hurricane swells arrive or nor'easters churn offshore, First Street can produce legitimate waves that remind everyone why they started surfing here in the first place.
🏅 ECSC since 1963 • Longest-running contest • Mid-Atlantic hub
Works best with swells from 80° (E). Workable range: 50°-130°.
Croatan Beach is where Virginia Beach locals go when they want waves without the resort-area crowds—a more exposed stretch that picks up larger swells and holds its form better than the tourist beaches. The residential setting keeps the vibe mellow, and the sandbars here can produce quality peaks when nor'easters or hurricane swells push through. While First Street gets the contests and attention, Croatan gets the actual best waves in the area, drawing a dedicated crew of regulars who prefer quality over convenience.
🏠 VB local's choice • Less crowded • Better sandbars
Works best with swells from 85° (E). Workable range: 55°-135°.
Manasquan Inlet is the gold standard of New Jersey surfing—an inlet-enhanced beach break that produces the Garden State's most consistent and powerful waves. The inlet jetty creates sandbars that transform ordinary Atlantic swells into legitimate overhead peaks, with fast, hollow sections that reward aggressive surfing. The local crew is notoriously protective and skilled, having earned their waves through decades of cold water dedication. When hurricane swells or nor'easters hit the Jersey Shore, Manasquan is where serious East Coast surfers want to be.
🏆 Jersey's best • Inlet-enhanced power • Dedicated local crew
Strong inlet currents. Respect the locals.
Asbury Park combines Jersey Shore surf culture with a rock-and-roll heritage that made the boardwalk famous long before Bruce Springsteen wrote songs about it. The beach break delivers typical New Jersey waves—punchy peaks that reward quick surfing when hurricane swells or nor'easters arrive. The revitalized town brings a creative, slightly edgy vibe that contrasts with the buttoned-up shore towns to the south. For surfers who want good waves and interesting après-surf options, Asbury Park delivers both.
🎸 Springsteen's shore • Rock and roll boardwalk • Jersey beach break
Works best with swells from 95° (E). Workable range: 65°-145°.
Long Beach Island is an 18-mile barrier island that offers countless peaks for surfers willing to explore—from jetty-enhanced breaks to open beach sandbars that shift with each storm. LBI has been a Jersey Shore surf destination for generations, with a loyal crew of regulars who know every sandbar nuance and surf it through winter in thick wetsuits. The family-friendly summer vibe transforms to empty beaches once September arrives, and the hurricane season delivers the best waves of the year. For surfers seeking options and room to spread out, LBI provides.
🏝️ 18-mile barrier island • Endless peaks • Jersey Shore tradition
Works best with swells from 105° (ESE). Workable range: 75°-155°.
Offshore wind from 285° (WNW). Offshore range: 255°-325°. Best window: morning.
Works in hurricane and nor'easter swells.
Multiple beach access points along island.
Ocean City NJ is the family-friendly face of Jersey Shore surfing—a "dry town" with a classic boardwalk where multiple jetty setups create consistent, accessible peaks for surfers of all levels. The wave quality won't blow any minds, but the reliability and forgiving nature make it perfect for learning or getting exercise between swells. The jetties focus whatever swell arrives, and the local surf shops have been outfitting riders for decades. For families balancing surf time with boardwalk obligations, Ocean City delivers on both fronts.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly shore • Jetty setups • Classic boardwalk vibes
Works best with swells from 110° (ESE). Workable range: 80°-160°.
Offshore wind from 290° (WNW). Offshore range: 260°-330°. Best window: morning.
Family beach town. Very crowded in summer.
Long Beach NY is the NYC metro area's most accessible quality surf—a south-facing beach on Long Island's barrier island that produces powerful waves and nurtures an intensely dedicated local crew. The Long Island Rail Road makes it possible to reach from Manhattan without a car, though summer beach passes add cost. When hurricane swells or winter storms light up the south-facing beach, Long Beach transforms into the best surf within an hour of 8 million people. The local hierarchy is real and respected, but visitors who show proper etiquette will find waves.
🚂 LIRR accessible • Heavy local crew • NYC metro's best
LIRR accessible. Beach pass required in summer.
Rockaway Beach holds the remarkable distinction of being the only surf spot accessible by New York City subway—take the A train to the end of the line and you're in the water. This Queens peninsula has transformed from a fading beach town into a thriving surf community, complete with taco stands, surf schools, and a diverse crowd that spans Wall Street bankers to Bed-Stuy locals. The waves are nothing special, but the accessibility and community make Rockaway essential to understanding that surfing exists even in America's largest city.
🚇 A train to the lineup • NYC's surf spot • Diverse Queens community
Works best with swells from 165° (SSE). Workable range: 135°-195°.
Offshore wind from 345° (NNW). Offshore range: 305°-25°. Best window: morning.
Very crowded. Multiple breaks along beach.
Subway accessible (A train). Only surf beach in NYC.
Montauk's Ditch Plains is the crown jewel of East Coast surfing—a south-facing beach at the tip of Long Island that catches more swell than anywhere else in the region. The position intercepts hurricane swells, nor'easters, and even wraparound energy from storms that miss everything else. The rocky bottom creates defined peaks with more punch than typical beach breaks, and the Montauk surf community takes their waves seriously. The two-hour drive from NYC weeds out casual day-trippers, leaving dedicated surfers who've made "The End" their home away from home.
👑 East Coast crown jewel • Catches everything • The End of Long Island
Best East Coast spot. Picks up most swells.
Narragansett Town Beach is Rhode Island's surfing hub—the Ocean State's most popular and accessible wave, where generations of New England surfers have earned their stripes in cold Atlantic water. The south-facing beach catches hurricane swells and nor'easter energy, producing quality peaks that can rival spots much further south when conditions align. The facilities, parking, and town beach vibe make it easy to access, though the crowd reflects the accessibility. For surfers based in Rhode Island or visiting the area, Narragansett provides the most consistent option.
🌊 Ocean State's surf hub • South-facing quality • Rhode Island tradition
Works best with swells from 165° (SSE). Workable range: 135°-180°.
Hurricane swells and winter nor'easters.
Town beach with facilities. Parking fee.
Nantasket Beach is Boston's go-to surf spot—the closest consistent wave to a city of millions, accessible from downtown in under an hour. The northeast-facing beach catches nor'easter swells that miss south-facing breaks, providing an alternative window when the rest of New England goes flat. The water is cold year-round, the crowd is dedicated, and the rocky areas demand awareness, but Nantasket delivers surf to a metropolitan area that has no business having a surf scene. For Bostonians who refuse to let geography dictate their stoke, Nantasket is home.
🦞 Boston's surf spot • Northeast-facing • Cold water dedication
Offshore wind from 250° (WSW). Offshore range: 220°-290°. Best window: morning.
Coast Guard Beach sits on Cape Cod's outer arm within the Cape Cod National Seashore—a powerful, exposed beach break that catches every swell moving through the region. The wave is consistent and often uncrowded, but the elephant in the water is the great white shark population that has returned to these waters in recent years. Seal colonies have brought the sharks back, and surfers must weigh the quality waves against the very real risk. For those comfortable with the situation, Coast Guard Beach offers some of New England's best surf in a dramatic, dune-backed setting.
🦈 Great white territory • Outer Cape power • National Seashore beauty
Works best with swells from 85° (E). Workable range: 55°-130°.
National Seashore. Summer shuttle required.
The Wall at Hampton Beach holds the unique distinction of being New Hampshire's only surf spot—the entire state has just 18 miles of coastline, and this is where the surf happens. The jetty creates sandbars that focus whatever swell arrives, from hurricane remnants to nor'easters, producing waves that punch well above their geographic weight. The local crew is tight-knit and has made the most of their limited coastline, surfing through brutal New England winters in conditions that would make most people stay home. For the novelty alone, The Wall is worth a session.
🏔️ NH's only surf spot • 18 miles of coast • Granite State grit
NH's only 18 miles of coastline. Beach parking.
Khalaktyrsky Beach is one of the most otherworldly surf destinations on Earth—a black volcanic sand beach on Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula where active volcanoes tower over the lineup and brown bears roam the shore. The waves arrive from typhoons and Pacific storms, breaking in water so cold it demands the thickest wetsuits made. The short summer/autumn season limits surf time, but the setting defies description: black sand, steaming volcanoes, the Pacific Ocean, and the knowledge that you're surfing in one of the planet's most remote and wild places.
🐻 Volcanic Kamchatka • Bears on beach • Ultimate frontier surf
Works best with swells from 120° (ESE). Workable range: 95°-160°.
Short summer/autumn window. Typhoon swells. Extremely cold water.
Very remote. Cold water (5-12C). Bears in area.
Black volcanic sand beach. 30min from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.
Yakutat represents the northern frontier of North American surfing—a remote Alaskan community where Gulf of Alaska storms produce powerful waves that break with glaciers visible in the distance. The setting is primal: rainforest meets ocean, bears wander the beach, and the water temperature hovers just above freezing year-round. The small but dedicated local community has carved out a surf scene in this unlikely location, proving that dedicated surfers will find waves anywhere. For those seeking the ultimate adventure surf experience, Yakutat delivers waves and wilderness in equal measure.
🏔️ Alaska's surf frontier • Glaciers in the lineup • Northernmost waves
Fall is best. Winter too stormy. Gulf of Alaska swells.
Extremely cold water. Bears on beach. Very remote.
Thorli is Iceland's most accessible quality wave—a right-hand reef break on the Reykjanes Peninsula where North Atlantic swells meet volcanic rock in one of Europe's most dramatic settings. The wave breaks over lava reef with steam vents and geothermal activity visible nearby, and the Northern Lights can illuminate evening sessions during autumn and winter. The water is cold but surprisingly not as frigid as the latitude suggests, thanks to Gulf Stream influence. For surfers seeking waves in truly unusual places, Thorli offers quality surf with a side of Nordic otherworldliness.
🌌 Northern Lights sessions • Volcanic reef • North Atlantic power
Works best with swells from 250° (WSW). Workable range: 220°-290°.
Autumn best. Consistent North Atlantic swells.
Very cold water. Volcanic rock reef. Strong currents.
45min from Keflavik airport. Good road access.
Klitmoller—affectionately dubbed "Cold Hawaii"—has put Denmark on the global surf map through sheer determination and surprisingly consistent North Sea waves. This small fishing village on the Thy peninsula catches every storm that sweeps through the North Sea, producing powerful beach break peaks that host World Tour windsurfing events and nurture a dedicated cold-water surf community. The "Cold Hawaii" nickname started as a joke but stuck because the waves genuinely deliver. For surfers who think Scandinavia can't surf, Klitmoller proves them wrong.
🥶 Cold Hawaii • Denmark's surf capital • North Sea power
Best in autumn/winter. Known as Cold Hawaii.
Hawkes Bay is where Pakistan's nascent surf scene has taken root—a beach west of Karachi where monsoon swells occasionally push through the Arabian Sea to create surfable waves. The local surf club has been steadily growing the community, introducing young Pakistanis to a sport virtually unknown in the country. The waves are inconsistent and the infrastructure is basic, but the pioneering spirit is real. For surfers seeking the truly unusual experience of surfing in Pakistan, Hawkes Bay represents the starting point of something potentially significant.
🇵🇰 Pakistan's surf pioneer • Arabian Sea monsoon • Nascent scene
Monsoon season pushes SW swells from Arabian Sea.
Urban beach. Water quality varies. Popular swimming spot.
Ngwe Saung—Myanmar's "Silver Beach"—represents true pioneer territory in the Bay of Bengal, where monsoon swells occasionally create surfable waves along a coast that has barely been explored. The developing beach resort area offers basic infrastructure, and the shoulder monsoon seasons (avoiding peak onshore winds) provide the best windows. Political instability has complicated access, but for adventurous travelers, Ngwe Saung offers the rare opportunity to surf a country where the sport is virtually unknown, with uncrowded waves and genuine cultural discovery.
🇲🇲 Myanmar's silver beach • Bay of Bengal pioneer • Uncharted territory
Shoulder monsoon season. Peak monsoon too onshore.
Remote. Limited infrastructure. Monsoon flooding possible.
5hr drive from Yangon. Developing beach resort area.
Cox's Bazar claims the remarkable distinction of being the world's longest natural sandy beach—120 kilometers of unbroken coastline stretching along Bangladesh's Bay of Bengal shore. The Bangladesh Surf Club has been steadily introducing the sport to a country with virtually no surfing tradition, working with local youth and building community around the waves. The surf is gentle and beginner-friendly, the crowds (on the beach, not in the water) are immense, and the experience of surfing in Bangladesh is unlike anywhere else. A genuinely pioneering scene in an unexpected place.
🏖️ World's longest beach • Bangladesh pioneer • 120km of sand
Ideal size: 1.0m. Too small below 0.5m, too big (closeout) above 1.5m.
Pre and post monsoon best. Peak monsoon too rough/onshore.
Very crowded beach. Strong currents. Limited surf awareness.
Direct flights from Dhaka. 120km unbroken beach.
Lido is Papua New Guinea's most famous wave—a quality right-hand reef break near Vanimo that captures rare northwest swells during the monsoon season. The wave has been featured in surf media for decades, drawing adventurous travelers willing to navigate PNG's challenging infrastructure for uncrowded perfection. When northwest swells push through during the wet season, Lido transforms into a mechanical reef setup that rivals more established destinations. The setting is raw and remote, with friendly villagers and a frontier atmosphere that makes every session feel like discovery.
🇵🇬 PNG's famous right • North swell catcher • Frontier perfection
Works best with swells from 330° (NNW). Workable range: 300°-360°.
NW monsoon season. Pacific storms send NW swells.
Very remote. Sharp reef. Limited medical facilities.
Fly from Port Moresby. Small town infrastructure.
Tupira Surf Club is Papua New Guinea's grassroots surf success story—a community-run operation in Ulingan Bay near Madang that offers remarkably consistent waves over limestone reef. The main break is a fun right-hander directly out front that acts as a north swell magnet, rarely going flat during the October to April season. The wave suits all levels with ordinary power but quality shape, making it the most accessible surf in PNG. Beyond the main break, the bay hides several other reef setups including Suaru (double the size), Tawulte (a 300-400m left), and Rurunat (punchy left). Limited to 12 guests at a time, this is community-controlled surfing at its finest.
🏠 Community surf club • North swell magnet • 150+ surfable days/year
Works best with swells from 45° (NE). Workable range: 0°-70°.
Oct-Apr. North swell magnet—rarely flat during season. ~150 surfable days/year.
Limestone reef bottom. Sharp rocks. Remote area.
WannaSurf, surf-forecast.com, World Surfaris
2-hour drive from Madang on sealed road. Must pre-arrange with Tupira Surf Club. Max 12 guests.
Wewak Point is the gateway to the East Sepik Province surf zone—a left-hand reef break on Papua New Guinea's north coast that picks up northwest monsoon swells during the wet season. While consistency is low compared to Kavieng, when the right swell arrives the reef lights up with quality lefts over shallow coral. The real appeal is the broader Wewak area, which hides several other breaks including Little Bali (a powerful left with long walls) and Peanuts (fast and hollow). With direct flights from Port Moresby and basic town infrastructure, Wewak offers the most accessible entry point to one of PNG's least-explored surf regions.
🗺️ East Sepik gateway • Left reef break • PNG's untapped north coast
Works best with swells from 340° (NNW). Workable range: 300°-360°.
Nov-Mar monsoon season. NW swells from Pacific storms. Low consistency.
Reef bottom. Sharks present. Limited medical facilities in Wewak.
surf-forecast.com, Stormrider (regional)
Short drive from Wewak town. Wewak airport (WWK) has flights from Port Moresby.
Papatura Island represents the ultimate in remote Pacific surf—a dedicated surf resort in the Solomon Islands where pristine reef passes break in crystalline water with no one else around. The left-hand wave catches Coral Sea swells that wrap around the island chain during the trade wind season, producing quality barrels over healthy reef. Reaching Papatura requires commitment (boat charter from Honiara), but the reward is uncrowded perfection in one of the least-surfed regions on Earth. For those seeking genuine adventure with quality waves, the Solomons deliver.
🏝️ Solomon Islands perfection • Pristine reef passes • Ultimate remote
Offshore wind from 330° (NNW). Offshore range: 290°-10°. Best window: morning.
SE trade wind season. Coral Sea swells wrap in.
Extremely remote. Boat access only. Sharp coral.
Unknown minutes drive from HIR airport. Requires boat access ($300/day).
Surf resort or boat charter from Honiara.
Pango Point is Vanuatu's most accessible quality wave—a right-hand reef break just outside Port Vila that catches south swells pushing up from the Tasman Sea and Coral Sea. The wave breaks over coral reef in warm, clear water with the volcanic island backdrop that makes the South Pacific so visually stunning. While not as remote as other Melanesian destinations, Pango Point offers a legitimate surfing experience within easy reach of Vanuatu's capital. For travelers exploring the region, it provides a reliable option without the logistical challenges of more remote breaks.
🌴 Vanuatu's accessible wave • Port Vila proximity • South Pacific beauty
Works best with swells from 170° (S). Workable range: 140°-200°.
Trade wind season. S swells from Tasman low pressure.
Ha'atafu Beach is Tonga's surfing epicenter—a west-facing reef break on Tongatapu that intercepts southwest groundswells marching up from Tasman Sea and Southern Ocean storms. The multiple peaks offer variety depending on swell size and direction, with consistent waves during the Tongan autumn and winter. The friendly Kingdom vibes and uncrowded lineups make surfing here feel like stepping back to an earlier era of Pacific exploration. For surfers seeking Polynesian perfection without the crowds of more developed destinations, Ha'atafu delivers the authentic experience.
🇹🇴 Kingdom of Tonga • Tasman swell catcher • Polynesian authenticity
Winter/spring best. SW groundswells from Tasman storms.
Sharp coral reef. Strong currents on bigger days.
West coast Tongatapu. Beach resort nearby.
Surf Bay in the Falkland Islands represents one of Earth's most unlikely surf destinations—a sub-Antarctic beach where South Atlantic storms produce waves that break with penguins waddling on shore and elephant seals hauled out nearby. The water is frigid (requiring serious exposure gear), the conditions are challenging, and the setting is utterly unlike anywhere else on Earth. The name "Surf Bay" suggests the waves have been noticed for a long time, though the surfing community here consists mainly of British military personnel and the occasional adventurous traveler. Genuinely unique.
🐧 Sub-Antarctic surf • Penguins on the beach • Ultimate novelty
Works best with swells from 70° (ENE). Workable range: 50°-85°.
Southern summer. Atlantic storms produce E swells.
Very cold water (5-10C). Very remote. Penguins on beach.
Massawa represents the absolute frontier of Red Sea surfing—an ancient port city in Eritrea where winter monsoon winds occasionally generate short-period swells along the African coast. The waves are small and inconsistent, but the setting is extraordinary: Italian colonial architecture, coral reefs, and the sense of surfing somewhere completely off the radar. Access is challenging due to Eritrea's isolation, but for adventurous travelers who find themselves in this historic port, the Red Sea occasionally provides unexpected waves.
🏛️ Red Sea frontier • Italian colonial port • Ultimate obscurity
Works best with swells from 50° (NE). Workable range: 20°-80°.
Needs at least 6s period. Ideal: 8s+ (long-period groundswell).
NE monsoon creates short-period wind swells in Red Sea.
Very remote. Limited infrastructure. Coral reefs.
2hr drive from Asmara. Historic port city.
Anse Lazio is consistently ranked among the world's most beautiful beaches—and occasionally, it has waves. This northwest-facing paradise on Praslin Island catches swells during the northwest monsoon season, when energy from distant storms creates rideable peaks between the iconic granite boulders. The surfing is a bonus here, not the main attraction—the primary draw is the stunning scenery of white sand, turquoise water, and prehistoric-looking rocks. But for surfers visiting the Seychelles, Anse Lazio offers the possibility of combining world-class scenery with actual waves.
💎 World's most beautiful beach • Granite paradise • Monsoon bonus waves
Works best with swells from 310° (NW). Workable range: 280°-350°.
NW monsoon season brings swells from Bay of Bengal.
Granite boulders. Currents on bigger days.
Praslin island. Ferry or short flight from Mahe.
Chomoni Beach sits on Grande Comore in the shadow of Mount Karthala, one of the world's most active volcanoes—a setting that would be extraordinary even without waves. During the southeast trade season, Indian Ocean swells wrap around the volcanic island to create surfable conditions on black sand beaches. This is coelacanth territory—the prehistoric fish thought extinct until discovered here. The infrastructure is minimal and the surfing community essentially nonexistent, but for adventurous travelers, Comoros offers genuine discovery in one of the Indian Ocean's least-visited corners.
🌋 Active volcano backdrop • Coelacanth territory • Indian Ocean obscurity
SE trade season. Swells wrap around from southern Indian Ocean.
Volcanic reef. Very limited infrastructure.
East coast of Grande Comore. Volcanic black sand.
Cristo Rei sits in the shadow of Timor-Leste's most iconic landmark—a large statue of Christ overlooking Dili Bay, reminiscent of Rio's famous monument. The north-facing reef break catches monsoon season swells during the wet season, offering a surprisingly legitimate wave in Southeast Asia's youngest nation. The setting combines Portuguese colonial history, tropical warmth, and a surfing community that has grown since independence. For travelers exploring Timor-Leste, Cristo Rei provides accessible waves with meaningful cultural context.
✝️ Cristo Rei statue • Timor-Leste's wave • Youngest nation's surf
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 310°-30°.
NW monsoon season. North coast receives wind swells.
Coral reef. Near iconic Cristo Rei statue.
Batumi Beach offers surfing on the Black Sea—an inland sea that produces surprisingly legitimate waves when winter storms sweep through. This subtropical Georgian resort city has seen a small but growing surf community develop, riding the short-period wind swells that arrive from November through March. The water is warmer than you'd expect for the latitude, the setting is exotic (think Soviet-era resorts meeting modern development), and the novelty of surfing between Europe and Asia adds to the experience. For those who've surfed everywhere conventional, Batumi offers genuine discovery.
🇬🇪 Black Sea surfing • Georgian subtropical • Winter wind swells
Works best with swells from 290° (WNW). Workable range: 275°-330°.
Needs at least 5s period. Ideal: 8s+ (long-period groundswell).
Winter storms on Black Sea produce wind swells.
Rocky/pebble beach. Short period waves. Cold water winter.
Obhur Creek represents the emergence of surfing in Saudi Arabia—a nascent scene developing north of Jeddah where Red Sea wind swells occasionally create rideable waves. The kingdom's recent opening to tourism and recreation has allowed a small surf community to form, riding the short-period swells that winter northwest winds generate. The waves are small and inconsistent, but the cultural significance of surfing in Saudi Arabia adds meaning beyond the ride. For those curious about the frontier of global surfing, the Saudi Red Sea coast represents genuine new territory.
🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia's surf pioneer • Red Sea wind waves • Kingdom opening up
Winter NW winds create short-period Red Sea swells.
Coral reef areas. Hot summers. Cultural considerations.
North of Jeddah. Developing beach scene.
Lawrencetown Beach is Eastern Canada's premier surf destination—a provincial park beach east of Halifax that catches every hurricane swell and nor'easter that sweeps up the Atlantic seaboard. The Nova Scotia surf community has built a legitimate scene here, surfing through winters that require the thickest wetsuits, hoods, boots, and gloves. When autumn hurricanes track northward or winter storms churn offshore, Lawrencetown produces powerful, quality waves that rival much of the East Coast. The setting is quintessentially Canadian: rugged coastline, cold water, and the satisfaction of earning every wave.
🍁 Eastern Canada's best • Nova Scotia grit • Hurricane and nor'easter power
Fall hurricanes and winter Noreasters. Cold water year-round.
Very cold water. Strong currents. Rocky headlands.
Surfers Point is a quality left-hander at Prevelly that sits adjacent to the famous Margaret River main break. While Margs gets the crowds, Surfers Point offers a longer, more workable wall that suits progressive surfing. The wave breaks over a rock and reef bottom, producing consistent walls with occasional barrel sections on the inside. When SW groundswells march in from the Southern Ocean, this wave comes alive with power and punch. The Margaret River wine region backdrop adds a touch of class to your surf trip.
🍷 Margaret River's left • Wine country waves • Less crowds than Margs
Works best between 0.45m and 0.85m tide.
Winter swells from the Southern Ocean. Consistent April-September. Summer swells smaller but still surfable.
Sharp reef. Watch for rocks on entry. Strong currents on bigger days.
Yallingup is a protected reef break on the Cape Naturaliste peninsula that offers a more forgiving alternative to the heavy slabs further south. The right-hand wave breaks in a picturesque bay surrounded by granite headlands and pristine bushland. When massive swells hammer the Margaret River region, Yallingup provides a safe haven with smaller, more manageable waves. The wave suits intermediate to advanced surfers with its long walls and occasional tube sections. Indigenous Noongar people have lived on this coast for over 50,000 years, and the area retains a spiritual quality.
🏖️ Protected Cape Naturaliste • Friendly reef right • Noongar country
Works best with swells from 235° (SW). Workable range: 200°-275°.
Needs at least 10s period. Ideal: 13s+ (long-period groundswell).
Winter is prime. Protected from bigger swells than Margs.
Rocky entry. Can get crowded on good days.
Lefthanders is a quality reef break near Gracetown that offers one of the Margaret River region's best left-hand waves. The wave breaks along a rock shelf, producing long, workable walls with barrel sections when the swell is solid. While less famous than the Box or North Point, Lefthanders delivers a more user-friendly experience for competent surfers. The area is known for Great White shark activity, so most surfers use personal deterrents and surf in groups. When SW swells pulse through, this wave turns on with power and consistency.
🦈 Gracetown quality • Workable walls • Shark country awareness
Winter months best. SW groundswell essential. Summer swells smaller but rideable.
Great White shark territory. Sharp reef. Surf with others.
Injidup is a scenic beach break tucked into a small bay between granite headlands on the Cape Naturaliste coast. The beach offers multiple peaks that shift with the sandbars, providing options for surfers of all abilities. The setting is stunning—turquoise water, white sand, and native bushland meeting the shore. When SW swells wrap into the bay, the peaks can produce surprisingly hollow waves. The protected nature of the bay means it handles bigger swells than exposed beaches, making it a reliable option when the coast is pumping.
🏝️ Hidden bay beauty • Multiple peaks • All abilities welcome
Works best with swells from 230° (SW). Workable range: 200°-280°.
Strong rips on bigger swells. Rocky headlands.
Pennington Bay is Kangaroo Island's premier surf spot—a powerful beach break that takes the full force of Southern Ocean swells. The remote island location means crowds are virtually non-existent, but so are services. When solid SW groundswells arrive, Pennington produces heavy, punchy waves that rival mainland breaks. The island is famous for its wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and sea lions, and the bushland setting is pristine. Great White sharks patrol these waters, so local knowledge and personal deterrents are recommended.
🦘 Kangaroo Island power • Empty lineups • Southern Ocean raw
Winter swells from the Southern Ocean. Exposed and powerful.
Great White territory. Strong rips. Remote location—no services.
Ferry to Kangaroo Island, then drive. Or fly direct.
Parsons Beach is a quality beach break on the Fleurieu Peninsula, just over an hour south of Adelaide. The beach faces the Southern Ocean and picks up every SW swell that approaches the coast. Multiple sandbars create shifting peaks that can produce hollow waves when conditions align. The surrounding coastline is rugged and beautiful, with native scrubland meeting white sand beaches. Being closer to Adelaide than Cactus, Parsons offers a more accessible introduction to South Australia's powerful surf.
🌊 Fleurieu Peninsula gem • Adelaide accessible • Southern Ocean power
Winter is prime. Picks up most Southern Ocean swells.
Shark activity in the area. Strong rips on bigger days.
Walk from carpark through coastal scrub.
Waitpinga Beach is a long, exposed stretch of sand on the Fleurieu Peninsula that receives the full brunt of Southern Ocean swells. The beach offers multiple peaks spread along its length, meaning you can often find an empty section even when other spots are crowded. The waves here are powerful and unforgiving—this is not a beginner spot. When solid S-SW swells hit, Waitpinga lights up with heavy barrels and long walls. The isolated nature of the beach means you're surfing in true wilderness, with cliffs and scrubland as your only companions.
⚡ Exposed SA power • Empty peaks • Southern Ocean wilderness
Winter brings consistent swells. Exposed beach.
Strong rips. Shark activity. Remote—no patrols.
Walk from carpark. 4WD access to some sections.
Winki Pop is the high-performance right-hander that sits immediately west of Bells Beach, sharing the same cliff backdrop and cold Southern Ocean waters. The wave breaks faster and hollower than Bells, offering a more critical barrel section on solid swells. The local crew here is tight and experienced—this is not a spot for beginners or those unfamiliar with localism. When SW groundswells coincide with NW winds, Winki Pop produces some of Victoria's best barrels. The wave has featured in countless Australian surf films and is considered a proving ground for local surfers.
🔔 Bells' barrel neighbor • Local crew heavy • Victorian proving ground
Winter swells. Best on SW groundswell with NW winds.
Very localized. Respect the lineup. Sharp reef.
Walk from Bells Beach carpark along the cliff path.
Johanna Beach is a wild, exposed beach break on the Great Ocean Road that takes the full force of Southern Ocean swells. The beach is backed by rolling green farmland and the Otway Ranges, creating a quintessentially Victorian coastal landscape. When solid SW swells hit, Johanna produces powerful, punchy waves that can rival any beach break in Australia. The remote nature means crowds are rare, but so is backup if something goes wrong. This is a wave for experienced surfers comfortable in cold, powerful conditions.
🌿 Great Ocean Road power • Otway backdrop • Wild Victorian coast
Works best with swells from 220° (SW). Workable range: 180°-270°.
Winter is prime. Picks up all Southern Ocean swell.
Strong rips. Remote beach—no patrols. Shark activity.
Easy beach access from Great Ocean Road.
Thirteenth Beach is a long stretch of sand near Barwon Heads that offers multiple peaks and consistent waves. The beach is more exposed than the town beaches of Torquay and Jan Juc, meaning it picks up swell when other spots are flat. The sandbars shift regularly, so checking multiple spots along the beach is recommended. When small to medium swells hit with light winds, Thirteenth Beach offers fun, rippable waves suitable for all abilities. It's a staple of the Melbourne surf scene and often the go-to when conditions are marginal elsewhere.
🏖️ Melbourne's reliable option • Multiple peaks • Consistent catchall
Works year-round. More consistent than town beaches.
Strong rips on bigger days. Check conditions before paddling.
Easy beach access from multiple carparks.
Clifton Beach is Hobart's most accessible surf spot—a crescent-shaped beach on the South Arm peninsula that catches SE swells from the Southern Ocean. The beach offers multiple peaks and is sheltered from the prevailing westerlies by the peninsula. When solid S-SE swells hit, Clifton produces punchy beach break waves that can get surprisingly good. The water is cold year-round, requiring a thick wetsuit even in summer. The proximity to Hobart makes it the go-to spot for the Tasmanian capital's small but dedicated surf community.
🥶 Hobart's home break • Cold water culture • Southern Ocean accessible
Winter swells from the Southern Ocean. Cold water year-round.
Strong rips. Occasional shark sightings. Cold water requires thick wetsuit.
Marrawah is Australia's most exposed coastline—a wild stretch of Tasmania's northwest corner that takes the full brunt of the Roaring Forties. The waves here are powerful and unforgiving, breaking onto remote beaches backed by button grass plains and ancient rainforest. Great White sharks are common, as are powerful currents and zero crowds. When giant W-SW swells march in from the Southern Ocean, Marrawah produces some of the heaviest beach break waves in the country. This is frontier surfing for experienced surfers only.
🌬️ Roaring Forties power • Australia's wild west • Frontier surfing
Works best with swells from 250° (WSW). Workable range: 235°-290°.
Year-round power. The most exposed coast in Australia.
🦈 Sharks, 🌀 Strong rips, 🏝️ Remote, 🪨 Rocks
Extremely remote. Great White sharks. Powerful waves. No backup.
Remote drive from Launceston. Limited facilities.
Mollymook Beach is a quality beach break on the NSW South Coast that produces consistent, fun waves away from Sydney's crowds. The beach faces ESE and picks up a wide range of swells, with multiple peaks shifting along the sandbars. The northern end near the golf course often produces the best banks. When E-SE swells combine with light W winds, Mollymook delivers long, workable walls perfect for progressive surfing. The area has excellent restaurants and the famous Bannisters resort, making it a favourite weekend escape for Sydney surfers.
🏌️ South Coast quality • Bannisters backdrop • Sydney escape
Works best with swells from 140° (SE). Workable range: 100°-160°.
Works year-round. Best on SE-E swells with W winds.
Standard beach rips on bigger days. Patrolled in summer.
Easy beach access. Golf course and resort nearby.
Short Point is a quality right-hand point break at the southern end of Merimbula on the NSW Far South Coast. The wave wraps around a rocky headland, producing long, workable walls that peel into the protected bay. When solid SE swells hit with NW winds, Short Point can produce some of the best waves on the Sapphire Coast. The break is more sheltered than the exposed beaches, making it a good option when it's too big elsewhere. The pristine setting—clear blue water and native bushland—makes surfing here a treat even on average days.
💎 Sapphire Coast point • Protected right-hander • Far South quality
Year-round surfing. SE swells most consistent.
Rocky entry. Watch for rips on bigger days.
Walk from Merimbula town. Local airport nearby.
Catherine Hill Bay is a heritage-listed mining village with a quality right-hand reef break that peels along the southern headland. The historic jetty and mining infrastructure create a unique backdrop for surfing. The wave breaks over a rock and reef bottom, producing long, workable walls with occasional barrel sections on the right swell. Being between Sydney and Newcastle, the spot can get crowded on good days, but it's worth the paddle. The village itself is charming, with the old miners' cottages now heritage-protected.
⛏️ Mining heritage waves • Historic village • Central Coast classic
Rocky reef. Can get crowded on good days.
Historic mining town. Beach access from village.
Agnes Water is Queensland's most northerly surf town—a laid-back coastal village that marks the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. The main beach offers gentle beach break waves that are perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers. Cyclone swells from January to April provide the best conditions, but the trade winds can make it challenging. The town has a distinct backpacker vibe, with surf schools, hostels, and a relaxed atmosphere. Being this far north means warm water year-round and the unique opportunity to combine surfing with reef exploration.
🐢 Reef gateway surfing • QLD's northernmost • Backpacker paradise
Cyclone swells Jan-April. Trade winds make it tricky.
Standard beach rips. Warm water year-round.
Gateway to Great Barrier Reef. Backpacker town.
Mon Repos is a famous conservation beach near Bundaberg, known worldwide as one of Australia's most important turtle nesting sites. Between November and March, loggerhead and green turtles come ashore to lay eggs, and visitors can join ranger-led tours to witness the phenomenon. Outside of nesting season closures, Mon Repos also offers quality beach break surfing when E swells from cyclones and tropical lows wrap around the coast. The waves are mellow and beginner-friendly, with warm water year-round. Bundaberg Rum distillery is nearby, adding local flavour to your surf trip.
🐢 Turtle conservation beach • Cyclone swells • Bundy rum country
Works best with swells from 100° (E). Workable range: 70°-120°.
Offshore wind from 280° (W). Offshore range: 240°-320°. Best window: morning.
Cyclone season best. E swells from tropical lows.
Standard rips. Turtle nesting area—respect wildlife closures.
Conservation park. Check for seasonal closures during turtle nesting.
Coolum Beach is a consistent beach break on the Sunshine Coast that offers quality waves without the crowds of Noosa. Mount Coolum, an ancient volcanic dome, provides a dramatic backdrop to the surf. The beach produces multiple peaks that shift with the sandbars, offering options for all ability levels. When E-SE swells hit, the beach can produce surprisingly hollow waves. The town has evolved from a quiet holiday village to a popular surf destination, but retains a more relaxed vibe than the Gold Coast. Pro surfers Julian Wilson and Steph Gilmore have trained here.
🌋 Mount Coolum backdrop • Pro training ground • Sunshine Coast soul
Works best with swells from 120° (ESE). Workable range: 80°-135°.
Offshore wind from 260° (W). Offshore range: 220°-300°. Best window: morning.
Sunshine Coast airport nearby. Resort town.
Nightcliff is Darwin's most consistent surf spot—a reef break in Australia's tropical north where crocodiles share the lineup. When cyclone swells from the Timor Sea push toward the coast during the wet season, Nightcliff can produce quality right-hand waves. The catch? Saltwater crocodiles are a genuine risk, as are box jellyfish and sharks. Local surfers check government croc warnings, wear stinger suits, and surf in groups. This is frontier surfing in one of the world's most dangerous marine environments, but for the dedicated few, it's worth the risk.
🐊 Crocodile country surfing • Cyclone swells • Australia's wild north
Wet season cyclone swells Oct-April. Dry season rarely has surf.
CROCODILES! Box jellyfish in wet season. Shark activity. Stinger suit essential.
Darwin suburb. Check croc warnings before surfing.
Casuarina Beach is a long stretch of sand on Darwin's northern beaches that catches cyclone swells during the wet season. The beach break offers multiple peaks and is more accessible than the reef setups nearby. However, the hazards are significant—saltwater crocodiles patrol these waters, box jellyfish are present from October to May, and the tropical heat is oppressive. The dedicated Darwin surf community has adapted to these challenges, checking croc warnings, wearing stinger suits, and embracing the frontier mentality. When cyclone swells arrive, the reward is empty, warm-water waves.
☀️ Darwin beach break • Stinger suit required • Tropical frontier
Wet season cyclone swells only. Often flat in dry season.
CROCODILES! Box jellyfish Oct-May. Stinger suit mandatory. Check croc warnings.
Popular Darwin beach. Nude section at north end.
Central Coast's flagship break - a rocky point at the northern end of Terrigal Beach that produces quality walls when SE swells wrap into the bay. The Haven offers protection from southerly winds and a variety of peaks suitable for all abilities. The bustling Terrigal esplanade provides cafes and amenities right on the beach, making it the social hub of Central Coast surfing.
🏖️ Central Coast flagship • Rocky point walls • Consistent performer
Works best with swells from 120° (ESE). Workable range: 60°-165°.
Offshore wind from 225° (SW). Offshore range: 200°-260°. Best window: morning.
Best autumn-winter on E-SE groundswells. Summer for NE swells.
Rocky point at northern end. Can get crowded on good days.
Easy beach access from Terrigal esplanade.
The jewel of the Central Coast - a right-hand point that peels along the southern rocks when solid ENE swells arrive. Long rides of 100+ metres are possible on the best days, drawing crowds from Sydney and beyond. The point section demands respect with its rocky takeoff zone, while the beach offers more forgiving peaks for those not ready for the main event.
💎 Central Coast jewel • Long right-hand walls • The local proving ground
Works best with swells from 60° (ENE). Workable range: 45°-110°.
Needs at least 9s period. Ideal: 12s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 200° (SSW). Offshore range: 170°-240°. Best window: morning.
Best autumn-winter on solid ENE groundswells.
Rocky takeoff zone at the point. Very crowded on good days.
Beach access from Avoca Beach carpark. Point at southern end.
A consistent beach break north of Terrigal that picks up more swell due to its open exposure. Multiple peaks along the beach offer options from mellow walls to punchier closeouts. The northern end features a reef section that can produce quality waves. Recent coastal erosion has changed the sandbars but also created some interesting new banks.
🌊 Open exposure beachie • Multiple peaks • North end reef section
Best autumn-winter. Picks up more swell than Terrigal.
Strong rips when waves are solid. Beach erosion issues.
Street parking along Wamberal Beach. Multiple access points.
A quality right-hand point that breaks off the southern headland into the bay. Needs solid swell to work but delivers long, walling rides when it does. The steep takeoff near the rocks demands commitment and the wave has genuine power. When it's on, MacMasters is one of the best points on the Coast - long walls, offshore spray, and that classic right-hander feeling.
🔥 Quality right-hander • Needs size to fire • Steep takeoffs near rocks
Needs at least 10s period. Ideal: 12s+ (long-period groundswell).
Needs solid swell to work. Best in winter.
Rocky takeoff zone. Steep, powerful waves.
Access via MacMasters Beach. Point at southern headland.
A south-facing reef beneath the historic Norah Head Lighthouse that fires on solid southerly swells. The uneven reef requires experience but rewards with quality walls when conditions align. Surfing beneath the 1903 lighthouse with its red-capped tower is a uniquely Central Coast experience. The headland provides shelter from northerly winds.
🔦 Lighthouse reef • South swell magnet • Rewards experience
Works best with swells from 150° (SSE). Workable range: 110°-180°.
Best on solid southerly swells in winter.
Uneven reef requires experience. Lighthouse adds stoke.
Access via Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve.
Some of the most impressive reef breaks in NSW - multiple setups along a 600m offshore reef that handle serious size. Expert only. The main reef is a 15-minute paddle and demands respect, fitness, and experience. Shark activity is noted but the quality of waves keeps the committed crew coming back. When it's on, Forresters delivers world-class walls.
⚡ Heavy offshore reef • Expert only • 600m paddle-out
Works best with swells from 160° (SSE). Workable range: 120°-180°.
Needs at least 11s period. Ideal: 13s+ (long-period groundswell).
Heavy offshore reef. Sharks present. 15-min paddle.
Beach access from Forresters Beach Road. Long paddle.
The Right is one of the heaviest waves on Earth—a mutant right-hand slab that detonates over a flat rock shelf on Western Australia's remote south coast. When massive Southern Ocean swells march in, the wave throws a thick, square lip that produces cavernous barrels and 40-second hold-downs. Only accessible by boat or jet ski from a remote stretch of coast near Walpole, The Right is strictly for elite big wave surfers and has attracted the world's best hellmen since it was first towed into in the mid-2000s.
⚡ Mutant south coast slab • Tow-in only • 40-second hold-downs
Works best with swells from 210° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-310°.
Ideal size: 7.5m. Too small below 3m, too big (closeout) above 12m.
Winter Southern Ocean swells. Needs large swell to break.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🦈 Sharks, 🏝️ Remote, 🪨 Rocks
Extremely dangerous slab. 40+ second hold-downs. Tow-in only. Boat/jet ski access required.
90 minutes drive from ALH airport. Requires boat access ($500/day).
Boat or jet ski access only from Boat Harbour Road off South Coast Highway near Walpole.
Cyclops is one of the most terrifying waves in the world—an ultra-shallow slab that breaks over a barely submerged reef shelf near Esperance on Western Australia's remote south coast. The wave breaks in water so shallow that riders are launched over dry reef, and the consequences of a wipeout are severe. Accessible only by boat from the Cape Le Grand area, Cyclops explodes when solid SW groundswells hit the shelf, producing thick, square barrels that close out in seconds. This is strictly experts-only territory where miscalculation can be fatal.
💀 Ultra-shallow reef slab • Boat access only • Esperance frontier
Works best with swells from 210° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-270°.
Ideal size: 3.0m. Too small below 2m, too big (closeout) above 4m.
Autumn provides best combo of swell and lighter winds.
🦈 Sharks, ⚠️ Shallow, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote, 🪸 Sharp reef
Extremely shallow. Boat access only. Great white sharks. One of the most dangerous waves in Australia.
60 minutes drive from EPR airport. Requires boat access ($400/day).
Boat or jet ski access only from near Cape Le Grand/Cape Arid area east of Esperance.
Cow Bombie (Cowaramup Bombora) is Australia's premier big wave break—an open-ocean reef that lurks 2 kilometres offshore from Gracetown in the Margaret River region. When massive Indian Ocean storm swells push through, the bombie comes alive with waves that have been ridden at 40+ feet, making it the biggest wave ever surfed in Australia. The break was pioneered by local big wave chargers and has since attracted international big wave surfers. Only accessible by jet ski, Cow Bombie represents the absolute pinnacle of Australian big wave surfing.
🏔️ Australia's biggest wave • 2km offshore • Margaret River power
Works best with swells from 240° (WSW). Workable range: 190°-290°.
Ideal size: 11.0m. Too small below 4m, too big (closeout) above 18m.
Offshore wind from 100° (E). Offshore range: 70°-135°. Best window: morning.
Winter only. Needs massive swell to break on the outer reef.
Australia's biggest rideable wave. 2km offshore. Tow-in/jet ski only.
175 minutes drive from PER airport. Requires boat access ($600/day).
~2hr45 drive south from Perth to Gracetown, then jet-ski launch and a 2km ride out to the break.
Red Bluff is one of Western Australia's most iconic left-handers—a remote reef break on the Quobba coast that delivers hollow, mechanical barrels when SW groundswell lights up the lineup. The wave peels over a shallow limestone ledge with precision, offering rides up to 150 metres on clean days. Getting here requires a long drive from Carnarvon followed by an unsealed road to the basic camping facilities at Quobba Station. The keyhole entry over sharp reef adds to the adventure. For decades, Red Bluff has drawn committed surfers willing to rough it for world-class waves in complete isolation.
🏜️ Remote WA barrel • Keyhole reef entry • Desert isolation
Ideal size: 1.8m. Too small below 0.5m, too big (closeout) above 3m.
Winter SW groundswell season. Consistent swell exposure.
🦈 Sharks, 🪸 Sharp reef, 🏝️ Remote, 🚶 Difficult access
Very remote. Keyhole entry over sharp reef. Great white territory.
Quobba Station campground. Unsealed road from highway. Keyhole reef entry.
Jake's Point is Kalbarri's crown jewel—a world-class left-hand point break that peels over a rocky shelf with machine-like precision when SW groundswells hit the mid-west coast. Designated a National Surfing Reserve, the wave offers long, walling lefts with barrel sections that can run for 300 metres on quality days. Located just 3km south of the small fishing town of Kalbarri, Jake's sits at the mouth of the Murchison River gorge, surrounded by dramatic red cliffs. The break handles size well but can be dangerous when the swell gets serious.
👑 National Surfing Reserve • World-class left • Red cliff backdrop
Works best with swells from 220° (SW). Workable range: 180°-280°.
Ideal size: 2.8m. Too small below 0.5m, too big (closeout) above 5m.
Winter SW groundswell. National Surfing Reserve.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🪨 Rocks, 🦈 Sharks, 🌀 Strong rips
Rocky shelf bottom. Shallow sections. Strong currents on bigger days.
3km south of Kalbarri town. Shore access via rocky path.
Smiths Beach is the Margaret River region's most approachable wave—a forgiving sandy reef break that offers fun lefts and rights without the intimidation factor of its heavier neighbours. Nestled in a protected bay near Yallingup, the wave works through most conditions and is a favourite with intermediate surfers and families. When bigger WSW swells push through, the outside reef section fires with more power, while the inside remains playful. The beautiful turquoise water and white sand beach make it one of the most scenic surf spots on the Cape Naturaliste coast.
🏖️ Forgiving sandy reef • Yallingup beauty • Margaret River for all
Works best with swells from 230° (SW). Workable range: 215°-280°.
Works best between 0.65m and 0.95m tide.
Year-round. More forgiving than other Margaret River breaks.
Sandy reef bottom. Generally safe but watch for rips on bigger days.
Easy beach access from Smiths Beach carpark near Yallingup, ~2hr45 drive south of Perth.
Trigg Point is Perth's best-known surf break—a sand-dependent right-hand point that wraps around the rocky headland at Trigg Beach on the city's northern suburbs. When the sandbars align and a clean SW-W groundswell arrives, Trigg delivers long, workable walls with occasional barrel sections. The wave is heavily localized and extremely crowded, but the proximity to Perth's 2 million residents makes it the city's go-to spot. The surrounding beach and café scene make it a social hub for Perth's surf community.
🏙️ Perth's best break • Sand-dependent right • Urban lineup
Works best with swells from 235° (SW). Workable range: 195°-290°.
Winter SW groundswell season. Perth's best.
Very crowded. Sand-dependent right point. Rock platform entry.
Trigg Beach carpark. Easy access but very crowded.
Scarborough Beach is Perth's busiest surf beach—a long stretch of white sand that picks up virtually any swell going. Multiple sandbars create shifting peaks offering both lefts and rights, making it a reliable option when other spots are flat. The beach is exposed to the full force of Indian Ocean swells and handles everything from knee-high summer fun to solid winter groundswells. Strong rips are a constant hazard.
🏖️ Perth's surf hub • Consistent beach break • Always crowded
Year-round surf. Best in winter with bigger SW groundswells.
Strong rips. Very crowded, especially weekends.
Large beachfront carpark. Easy beach access.
Cottesloe is Perth's most iconic beach—a protected stretch of coast between two granite headlands that catches smaller swells and offers mellow waves for beginners and longboarders. The groyne creates a sandbar that can produce fun little walls on the right swell. Less exposed than Scarborough, it works when bigger spots are closing out, making it a reliable small-wave option for Perth surfers.
🏛️ Perth icon • Mellow beach break • Beginner friendly
Year-round. Small but consistent. Protected from bigger swells.
Iconic Perth beach. Easy access from Marine Parade.
Gas Bay is a quality right-hand reef break just south of Margaret River main break that delivers hollow, workable walls when the swell is right. It picks up more swell than many nearby breaks and is surprisingly consistent even in summer months—surf-forecast lists February as the best month for clean waves here. The reef creates a defined takeoff zone and the wave runs along a shallow ledge, offering barrel sections on bigger days.
🌊 Margaret River right • Consistent reef • Works year-round
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 195°-260°.
Best autumn through spring. Summer swells smaller but still surfable. February is surprisingly consistent.
Can be crowded when on. Rips on bigger days. Shark sightings common.
Short walk from Gas Bay carpark off Caves Road.
Three Bears is a consistent left-hand reef break near Yallingup that offers a high-driving barrel after a peaky takeoff. The exposed reef picks up plenty of swell and works across most tidal stages. Named for the three distinct sections along the reef—Papa Bear, Mama Bear, and Baby Bear—each offering different wave characteristics. A reliable option when the bigger Margaret River breaks are too heavy.
🐻 Yallingup left • Barrel reef • Consistent
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 195°-270°.
Best autumn through spring. Consistent exposed reef picks up most swells.
Can get crowded. Reef entry requires care.
Access from Yallingup Beach carpark. Short walk south.
South Point is an accessible left-hand point break near Gracetown that offers forgiving walls for beginner to intermediate surfers. One of the few Margaret River breaks that still works in a southwest wind, making it a reliable option when the main breaks are blown out. The wave wraps around the rocky point and peels along the inside, offering long rides on clean days. Rarely crowded.
🌿 Gracetown left • Beginner friendly • Works in onshore
Works best with swells from 240° (WSW). Workable range: 200°-280°.
Needs at least 8s period. Ideal: 13s+ (long-period groundswell).
Best winter. One of the few spots that still works in a SW wind.
Rocky entry. Shark sightings in the area.
Walk from Gracetown. Short track to the point.
The Guillotine is an exposed left-hand reef break near Gracetown that delivers very consistent waves. The reef picks up virtually any swell going and works best around mid tide when the wave produces clean, defined walls with barrel sections. The isolated location keeps crowds to a minimum, but the rocky reef and shark-prone waters demand respect. A solid intermediate option in the Margaret River region.
🔪 Gracetown reef • Very consistent • Uncrowded
Very consistent reef. Autumn through spring is prime.
Isolated spot. Reef entry. Shark territory.
Remote access near Gracetown. Track through bush.
Cactus Caves is the fearsome right-hander in the legendary Cactus Beach zone on the Great Australian Bight. While its neighbour Castles draws the crowds with its long left, Caves delivers thick, heavy barrels that break over dangerously shallow reef. The wave is strictly for advanced surfers—the take-off zone is tight, the barrel is square, and the reef below is unforgiving. Set in one of Australia's most remote and shark-infested stretches of coastline, reaching Caves requires a long drive from Ceduna followed by a dirt road to basic camping at Point Sinclair.
🦈 Heavy right-hand barrel • Great Australian Bight • Shark territory
Winter for biggest swells. Autumn can be cleaner.
🦈 Sharks, 🪸 Sharp reef, 🏝️ Remote, ⚠️ Shallow
Great white shark territory. Sharp reef. Very remote—nearest town Penong 2 hrs from Ceduna.
Dirt road from Penong. Basic camping at Point Sinclair. No facilities.
The Dump is Victor Harbor's go-to reef break—a quality right-hander that peels over a rocky shelf on the Fleurieu Peninsula's south coast. When clean SW groundswell arrives from the Southern Ocean, the wave offers punchy walls and occasional barrel sections. The break sits in an area known locally as Shark Alley, so awareness is essential. Located about 80 minutes south of Adelaide, The Dump provides a genuine reef break experience that rewards those willing to make the drive from the city.
🦈 Fleurieu Peninsula reef • Shark Alley • Southern Ocean power
Shark Alley. Rocky entry. Shallow reef sections.
6km from Victor Harbor town. Rocky shore access.
Point Impossible is the Surf Coast's quieter alternative to Bells and Winki Pop—a quality right-hand reef break between Torquay and Ocean Grove that picks up the same SW groundswell but with a fraction of the crowd. The break has two sections: the Insides offers a gentler ride suited to learners, while the Outsides delivers more powerful walls over the outer reef. When clean SW swell and NW winds combine on a low tide, Point Impossible can produce surprisingly good waves in a mellow atmosphere.
🌊 Surf Coast sleeper • Less crowds than Bells • Two-section reef
Winter for biggest swells. Less crowded than Bells area.
Rocky reef entry. Can have strong rips on bigger swells.
Beach access from Point Impossible car park. Between Torquay and Ocean Grove.
Martha Lavinia is the remote beach break on King Island that Tracks magazine rated as Australia's best. Sitting in Bass Strait between Tasmania and Victoria, the west-facing beach catches every Southern Ocean swell that rolls through, delivering powerful, hollow beach break peaks with nobody around. The island's small population means you'll likely surf alone, accompanied only by the kelp forests, Cape Barren geese, and the occasional seal. Getting here requires a flight to the tiny King Island Airport, but the reward is pristine, uncrowded waves in one of Australia's wildest settings.
🏝️ Australia's best beach break • King Island isolation • Wild Bass Strait
Offshore wind from 240° (WSW). Offshore range: 210°-280°. Best window: morning.
Year-round. Consistent swell from Southern Ocean and Bass Strait.
Extremely remote island. Strong rips. Cold water.
King Island Airport (KNS). Short drive to west coast beach.
Cloudy Bay is Bruny Island's premier surf break—a long, powerful beach exposed to the full force of the Southern Ocean. Located on the south coast of South Bruny, the beach catches S-SW groundswells that generate punchy peaks along the 4km stretch of sand. The bay hosts the annual Bruny Island Classic competition, drawing Tasmania's best surfers. Getting here requires a ferry crossing from Kettering followed by a drive through pristine Tasmanian bush. The reward is raw, uncrowded waves in one of Australia's most beautiful coastal settings.
🌊 Southern Ocean power • Bruny Island wilderness • Tassie's hidden gem
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 165°-215°.
Autumn-winter for biggest swells. Can fire year-round.
Remote island. Cold water. Strong rips. Ferry access only.
Ferry from Kettering (30min south of Hobart), then drive to south Bruny. ~2hr total from Hobart.
Eaglehawk Neck sits on the narrow isthmus joining the Forestier and Tasman Peninsulas, not far from the legendary Shipstern Bluff. When south-easterly swells arrive with westerly winds, the breaks around the Neck come alive with powerful, dramatic waves set against towering dolerite cliffs. While it doesn't match the raw ferocity of nearby Shipstern, Eaglehawk Neck offers a more accessible taste of Tasmania's world-class surf in a stunning natural setting. The area is steeped in convict history, with the ruins of Port Arthur nearby.
🏔️ Tasman Peninsula power • Near Shipstern • Dramatic cliffs
Works best with swells from 150° (SSE). Workable range: 120°-200°.
Best with SE swell and westerly winds. Same swell window as Shipstern.
Dramatic cliffs. Powerful waves. Near Shipstern Bluff.
Drive from Hobart via Arthur Highway. Shore access.
Ocean Beach is Tasmania's wild west coast frontier—a 33km stretch of sand that faces directly into the Roaring Forties, receiving every swell the Southern Ocean and Indian Ocean can throw at it. The beach break delivers consistent, powerful peaks year-round, with some of the most raw and isolated surf conditions in Australia. The nearest town, Strahan, is a tiny fishing village, and the surrounding Tarkine rainforest is World Heritage listed. When Cape Sorell buoy readings spike, the waves here can be genuinely massive.
🌊 Wild west coast • Roaring Forties power • 33km of empty peaks
Works best with swells from 250° (WSW). Workable range: 220°-300°.
Year-round swell. West coast receives all Southern and Indian Ocean swell.
Very remote west coast. Powerful shore break. Strong rips.
Long drive from Launceston (3hrs) or fly to Strahan airstrip. Beach access from Henty Dunes area.
Noosa Tea Tree is the second point in the legendary Noosa point break series, sitting between First Point and Nationals in the Noosa National Park. The wave breaks over boulders and is hollower and more powerful than the mellow First Point, demanding better positioning and more commitment. When solid E-NE swell pushes through, Tea Tree can connect with First Point below and Nationals above for rides measured in the hundreds of metres. The walk through the national park to reach it adds to the anticipation.
🌿 Noosa's hollow section • Boulder bottom barrels • National Park setting
Works best with swells from 60° (ENE). Workable range: 30°-90°.
Autumn cyclone swells and E-NE groundswell season.
Boulder bottom. Can be crowded when connecting through the Noosa points.
Walk through Noosa National Park from Noosa Heads. ~15 minute walk.
Noosa Nationals is the outermost point in the famous Noosa point break chain, home to the infamous Boiling Pot takeoff zone that demands precise timing. When bigger E-NE swells push in, the wave wraps around the rocky headland with long, walling walls that connect through to Tea Tree and potentially all the way to First Point—a ride of 400+ metres. The name comes from a surfing competition that was held here, and the break's quality and length have cemented its place in Australian surfing lore. The walk through pristine national park bush is part of the experience.
🏆 Boiling Pot takeoff • 400m+ rides • Noosa's outermost point
Works best with swells from 55° (NE). Workable range: 25°-90°.
Offshore wind from 210° (SSW). Offshore range: 170°-250°. Best window: morning.
Autumn cyclone swells. Needs more swell than First Point.
Rocky bottom. Boiling Pot takeoff zone is intense. Crowds when on.
Walk through Noosa National Park from Noosa Heads. ~20 minute walk.
Greenmount is the picturesque headland break at the heart of Coolangatta's surfing world, forming a key link in the legendary Superbank system. When E-SE swells push sand along the coast, waves can connect from Rainbow Bay through Greenmount and down to Snapper Rocks, creating some of the longest rides in Australia. Even without the full Superbank connection, Greenmount delivers fun, peeling right-handers that wrap around the headland. The views from the hill are iconic, and the surrounding cafes and parks make it the social heart of Gold Coast surfing.
🌅 Superbank connection • Coolangatta icon • Headland right-hander
Works best with swells from 100° (E). Workable range: 60°-145°.
Winter E-SE swells. Part of the Superbank system.
Very crowded. Part of the Superbank sand system.
Easy beach access from Greenmount headland. Heart of Coolangatta.
Main Beach is the Gold Coast's pressure valve—when the Superbank and Burleigh are packed solid, locals head north to find uncrowded peaks along this long stretch of sand between Surfers Paradise and the Spit. The beach break offers consistent peaks through all tides, with the occasional sand-bottom barrel forming against the groyne structures. While it lacks the world-class form of the point breaks to the south, Main Beach delivers fun, uncrowded waves just minutes from the high-rises.
🏄 Gold Coast overflow • Uncrowded peaks • Surfers Paradise alternative
Winter E-SE swells. Good alternative when Superbank is too crowded.
Easy beach access from Main Beach Parade. Near Surfers Paradise.
Double Island Point is one of Australia's most magical surf experiences—a long, mellow right-hand sand point that wraps around the headland in the Great Sandy National Park, north of Noosa. On good days, rides of 500+ metres are possible, making it one of the longest waves in the country. The wave is gentle enough for beginners yet fun enough for experts, with a sand bottom and forgiving nature. Access is 4WD only along the beach from Rainbow Beach, adding to the adventure. Surf schools run regular trips from Noosa, introducing surfers to waves they can ride for literally hundreds of metres.
🏖️ 500m+ rides possible • Sand point perfection • 4WD adventure access
Works best with swells from 60° (ENE). Workable range: 30°-100°.
Autumn E-NE swell season. Cyclone swells in summer.
4WD access only along beach. Tidal access can be tricky.
surf-forecast.com, Epic Ocean Adventures
4WD only via Rainbow Beach along the sand. Great Sandy National Park permit required.
Broken Head is Byron Bay's step-up wave—a right-hand point/reef break south of town that delivers hollower, more challenging conditions than the mellow Pass. The wave breaks over rock and reef with barrel sections that reward committed surfers. The setting is stunning, with the headland surrounded by nature reserve and eucalyptus forest. While it's only a short drive from Byron, the vibe is more serious and the locals less tolerant of drop-ins. When The Pass is too crowded or too small, Broken Head offers a genuine step up in both quality and consequences.
🌿 Byron's step-up wave • Hollow reef right • Nature reserve setting
Works best with swells from 80° (E). Workable range: 45°-130°.
Autumn-winter E swells. More advanced alternative to The Pass.
Rocky reef sections. More challenging than The Pass. Locals-only vibe.
Turn off Pacific Highway south of Byron Bay. Short walk to beach.
Long Reef Bombora is Sydney's big wave playground—an offshore reef break that lurks beyond the Long Reef headland on the Northern Beaches. When solid SE-E groundswells push through, the bombie comes alive with powerful A-frame peaks that can hold 4m+ faces. The long paddle from shore or jet ski tow out separates the committed from the curious. While it's within sight of Sydney's suburban beaches, the bombie delivers a genuine big wave experience with serious consequences if things go wrong.
⚡ Sydney's big wave spot • Offshore bombora • Northern Beaches power
Autumn-winter. Needs solid swell to break on the outer reef.
Offshore big wave spot. Long paddle or jet ski access. Serious consequences.
Long paddle from Long Reef headland. Some use jet skis.
Queenscliff is the northern end of Manly Beach, where the wave takes on a different character to the southern section. Sitting in a NE-facing pocket below the headland, Queenscliff picks up NE swell that bypasses the rest of the beach. The break was made famous when Duke Kahanamoku demonstrated surfing here in 1915, introducing the sport to Australia. Today it remains one of Sydney's most consistent waves, with defined peaks that work through most tides. The bombie offshore adds a big wave option when serious swell arrives.
🏄 Where Australian surfing began • NE swell magnet • Manly's northern end
Works best with swells from 45° (NE). Workable range: 30°-135°.
Offshore wind from 315° (NW). Offshore range: 270°-350°. Best window: morning.
Autumn-winter NE-E swells. Works on different swell to south Manly.
Crowded urban beach. Strong rips near headland.
North end of Manly Beach. Ferry from Circular Quay or drive.
Black Rock (also known as Aussie Pipe) is a hollow left-hand reef break at Wreck Bay in Jervis Bay—Australia's first Aboriginal surfing reserve. The wave breaks over a shallow rock shelf and produces tube rides that rival anything on the east coast. Located within the Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community, access is on Aboriginal land, and visitors must respect traditional owners and their protocols. The break has a loyal local crew and a rich cultural history, making it one of the most culturally significant surf spots in Australia.
🇦🇺 Aussie Pipe • Aboriginal surfing reserve • East coast tubes
Works best with swells from 170° (S). Workable range: 140°-195°.
Hollow, shallow reef break. Aboriginal land—respect access protocols.
Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community. Respect traditional owners and access rules.
Casuarina Beach is the Tweed Coast's answer to the crowded Gold Coast points—quality beach break peaks that deliver fun, uncrowded surf just minutes south of the border. The long stretch of sand between Kingscliff and Pottsville picks up the same E-SE swell that lights up Snapper and Kirra, but with a fraction of the crowd. Multiple peaks work through all tides, and the sheltered sections behind the rock platforms offer protection from the dominant southerly winds. For surfers after Gold Coast-quality swell without the mayhem, Casuarina is the answer.
🏖️ Tweed Coast quality • Gold Coast escape • Uncrowded peaks
Autumn-winter E-SE swells. Less crowded than Gold Coast.
Easy beach access from Casuarina village. Near Kingscliff on Tweed Coast.
Lighthouse Beach is Port Macquarie's most consistent surf break—a long stretch of sand that picks up E-SE swell and serves up punchy beach break peaks day after day. Named for the Tacking Point Lighthouse that watches over the southern end, the beach offers quality waves without the crowds of the Gold or Northern Beaches. The multiple peaks spread surfers out along the beach, and the variety of sandbar formations means there's usually a good bank working somewhere. A solid all-rounder on the mid-north coast.
🏖️ Port Macquarie staple • Consistent beach break • Mid-north coast charm
Works best with swells from 100° (E). Workable range: 60°-150°.
Autumn-winter E-SE swells. Consistent mid-north coast break.
Standard beach rips. Generally safe beach.
Easy access from Matthew Flinders Drive. Popular Port Macquarie beach.
Ballina South Wall is a river mouth break that forms consistent lefts where the Richmond River meets the sea. The sand deposited by the river creates shifting banks against the south training wall, producing peeling lefts that can be remarkably consistent when the banks are right. The wave works best on clean SE groundswell with light WSW winds. Ballina has unfortunately gained notoriety for shark encounters, so awareness is essential. Despite this, the wave's consistency and quality keep locals coming back.
🌊 Richmond River setup • Consistent lefts • Northern Rivers character
Offshore wind from 250° (WSW). Offshore range: 210°-280°. Best window: morning.
Winter SE groundswell. River mouth sand setup.
River mouth setup. Strong currents. Shark sightings—Ballina is known for shark activity.
Access from the Richmond River south wall. Carpark nearby.
Evans Head is a quiet Northern Rivers town that punches above its weight for surf quality. The beach and reef breaks around the headland pick up E-SE swell and deliver uncrowded waves that most surfers drive past on the way to Byron Bay or the Gold Coast. The main beach offers multiple peaks, while the rock platforms around the headland create defined reef breaks on bigger swells. With a population under 3,000 and limited tourist traffic, Evans Head is one of the best uncrowded surf zones on the NSW north coast.
🏘️ Northern Rivers sleeper • Uncrowded beach breaks • Drive-past gem
Easy beach access from Evans Head village. Small coastal town.
Tallows Beach is Byron Bay's swell magnet—the long, south-facing stretch of beach between Cape Byron and Broken Head that catches SE-E swell when the north-facing breaks like The Pass go flat. The beach offers powerful, punchy peaks along its 3km length, with the best banks typically forming near the Cape Byron end. Less crowded than Byron's other breaks due to the walk required to reach it, Tallows delivers a rawer, more isolated surf experience within sight of Australia's most easterly point.
🧭 Byron's swell magnet • South-facing exposure • Cape Byron views
Works best with swells from 110° (ESE). Workable range: 70°-160°.
Year-round. Swell magnet when other Byron spots are flat.
Strong rips. Occasional shark sightings. Remote southern section.
Beach access from Tallows Beach Road or walk from Cape Byron.
Fingal Head is a unique right-hand reef break that peels over ancient basalt columns—Australia's own Giants Causeway formed 23 million years ago by lava flows from the now-extinct Tweed Volcano. The wave needs specific NE-E swell to wrap around the headland and break properly, making it an inconsistent but rewarding spot when conditions align. The setting is spectacular, with Cook Island sitting offshore and the hexagonal basalt columns visible at low tide. The break has a loyal local crew who know exactly which tides and swells make it fire.
🌋 Basalt reef right • Australia's Giants Causeway • Ancient lava break
Works best with swells from 60° (ENE). Workable range: 20°-100°.
Autumn NE swell season. Needs specific NE swell direction.
Basalt reef. Sharp volcanic rock. Cook Island views.
Fingal Head village. Walk to headland. Giants Causeway basalt formations.
Mandurah Wedge is a punchy breakwater setup south of Perth where refracted Indian Ocean swell folds into a steep right-hand wedge. It is best known as a bodyboarding wave: short, fast, and capable of throwing vertical ramps when the bank and backwash line up. The rock wall makes conditions unpredictable, so it suits experienced riders who can read moving water and avoid the structure.
Perth-side wedge | Breakwater ramps | Bodyboard focus
Works best with swells from 235° (SW). Workable range: 210°-260°.
Ideal size: 1.6m. Too small below 0.9m, too big (closeout) above 2.4m.
Offshore wind from 65° (ENE). Offshore range: 45°-90°. Best window: morning.
Best months: Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep.
Jetty/breakwater backwash creates unpredictable conditions.
Breakwall at Port Macquarie is a right-hand wedge formed by the river training wall and shifting sand. It is a compact, high-energy wave with a strong bodyboarding history, turning modest east-coast swell into bowls, ramps, and close-range barrels. Conditions change quickly with tide, bank shape, and current, so the best sessions reward local timing.
Port Macquarie wedge | Rock-wall bowls | Bodyboard town
Offshore wind from 240° (WSW). Offshore range: 210°-270°. Best window: morning.
Best months: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Oct, Nov, Dec.
Rock wall refracts swell. Can be unpredictable.
The Point at Cronulla is a heavy right-hand reef near Shark Island, known for holding solid south swell and producing ledgy takeoffs over limestone. It is more powerful than the nearby beach breaks and becomes a serious proposition when the swell period climbs. The wave suits advanced surfers and bodyboarders who are comfortable with shallow reef, crowds, and fast sections.
Cronulla reef right | Shark Island energy | Heavy south swell
Works best with swells from 175° (S). Workable range: 160°-190°.
Voodoo is one of Cronulla's most serious slabs, a powerful left breaking over shallow rock on the edge of Bate Bay. It needs solid south swell and clean wind to become rideable, then delivers steep drops, thick barrels, and little room for error. This is expert-only surf with real reef consequences and a committed local crew.
Cronulla slab | Expert-only left | Shallow rock ledge
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 180°-200°.
Ideal size: 2.2m. Too small below 1.6m, too big (closeout) above 2.8m.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🪨 Rocks, ⚠️ Shallow, 👥 Crowded
Expert only. Part of Cronulla's slab arena.
Lido Beach is a Long Island beachbreak that can turn into a compact bodyboarding playground during hurricane swells and winter nor'easters. Sandbar shape is everything here: when the banks line up, the wave offers punchy bowls, wedging peaks, and quick barrels close to New York City. It remains variable and seasonal, but its best days are much heavier than the everyday beachbreak label suggests.
Long Island bowls | Hurricane-season peaks | NYC-accessible
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 160°-200°.
Offshore wind from 330° (NNW). Offshore range: 300°-360°. Best window: morning.
Hurricane swells (Aug-Nov) produce best conditions. Nor'easters in winter.
Jenkinsons is a Point Pleasant Beach bodyboarding staple where Jersey Shore sandbars can build short, ledgy peaks with enough power for barrels and ramps. It is most interesting during late-summer tropical swell or winter nor'easters, when the beachbreak gains size and shape. The wave is accessible but still demands respect for rips, shifting bars, and crowded good days.
Jersey Shore peaks | Nor'easter bowls | Bodyboard-friendly
Offshore wind from 300° (WNW). Offshore range: 270°-330°. Best window: morning.
Hurricane swells and nor'easters produce best conditions.
Safi Le Jardin is one of the most feared waves in Morocco—a heavy, slabbing right that breaks over a shallow reef just outside Safi harbor. When massive WNW swells arrive, usually only a few times per year, the wave produces thick, grinding barrels that hold well overhead and beyond. The takeoff is steep, the bottom shallow, and the consequences severe. This is a wave for experts who have earned their stripes elsewhere.
⚡ Morocco's heaviest slab • Rare but perfect • Expert-only barrels
Works best with swells from 305° (NW). Workable range: 280°-330°.
Ideal size: 3.2m. Too small below 2.4m, too big (closeout) above 4m.
Offshore wind from 110° (ESE). Offshore range: 80°-140°. Best window: morning.
Needs large NW-WNW swells. Breaks only few times per year.
🪸 Sharp reef, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, ⚠️ Shallow
La Source sits just north of the famous Anchor Point, fed by fresh water springs that give the spot its name. The wave is a long, peeling right that can connect through multiple sections on bigger swells, offering rides of several hundred meters. When it links with Mysteries further down the point, you can surf nearly a kilometer. The water is notably colder here due to the springs, but the wave quality makes it worthwhile.
💧 Spring-fed point • Links with Mysteries • Kilometer rides possible
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 290°-340°.
Winter swells best. NW groundswells ideal.
Just north of Anchor Point. Hollow reef break, fresh water springs.
Mysteries is the middle section of the famous Taghazout point break system, sitting between La Source to the north and Anchor Point to the south. When the swell is big enough and the direction right, you can catch a wave at La Source and ride it all the way through Mysteries and into Anchor Point—a ride of nearly a kilometer. The wave offers long walls with occasional barrel sections over a rocky reef.
🔮 Middle of the magic • Links the points • Long walls
Winter swells best. Links with La Source on big days.
Sharp reef. Part of the Taghazout point system.
Dracula's is named for the jagged, fang-like rocks that guard this remote Moroccan reef break north of Taghazout. The wave is a true A-frame, offering hollow lefts and fast, walling rights that break over a shallow reef. The setting is pristine and uncrowded, with the vampire-tooth rocks adding an eerie beauty to the lineup. Best on medium swells with east winds.
🧛 Vampire-teeth rocks • A-frame perfection • Remote hollow waves
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 290°-345°.
Ideal size: 1.9m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 2.5m.
Winter swells. A-frame wave with hollow lefts and fast rights.
A-frame wave with hollow lefts and fast rights. Remote pristine setting.
Panoramas sits on the southern edge of Taghazout, offering sweeping views of the coastline that give the spot its name. The wave is a long, walling right that works best on bigger NW swells when conditions can become world-class. The reef produces clean, lined-up walls perfect for carving and the occasional barrel section. A great alternative when the main Taghazout points are too crowded.
🌅 Scenic point break • Long walls • Works on bigger swells
Winter swells. Southern edge of Taghazout. World-class when conditions align.
Devil's Rock takes its name from the dramatic, jagged rock formation that looms over the lineup. The wave is a consistent left that breaks below the rocks, offering barrel sections on good days and fun walls the rest of the time. It's one of the more reliable spots in the area, often working when the main points are too small or too big.
😈 Dramatic rock backdrop • Consistent left • Barrel sections
Reliable when other spots aren't. Below striking rock formation.
Below striking rock formation. Can barrel on good days.
Reliable consistent left. 30-min walk from Robertsport.
Banana Point is named for the banana plantation that once stood nearby. The wave is a gentle, mellow right that's perfect for longboarding and learning. It picks up less swell than the main Taghazout points, making it a great option on bigger days when other spots are maxing out. The long, easy walls and forgiving nature make it popular with beginners and longboarders alike.
🍌 Mellow longboard point • Beginner-friendly • Named for banana farm
Works on smaller swells. Gentle mellow right by longboarders.
Popular with beginners and longboarders. Can get crowded.
Gentle mellow right. Perfect for longboarding.
Cathedral Point is the big-wave outer reef of Imsouane, breaking well outside the famous bay when serious NW swells arrive. When it's on, the wave produces powerful, hollow barrels that can reach 20 feet, dwarfing the mellow longboard waves inside the bay. The name comes from the cathedral-like rock formations on the point. This is expert territory only.
⛪ Imsouane's outer reef • 20ft hollow barrels • Expert-only big waves
Big NW swells needed. Powerful hollow waves up to 20ft.
Powerful hollow waves. Big NW swell hits.
Outside Imsouane Bay. Needs big swell to break.
Anza is the main beach break in Agadir, offering fun peaks along a stretch of sandy beach near the city. The wave works best on smaller days when the points up north are too small. Multiple peaks mean you can usually find your own wave even when it's busy. A good option for beginners or for a quick surf when staying in Agadir.
🏖️ Agadir's beach break • Multiple peaks • City surf option
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 270°-330°.
Works on smaller days. Agadir beach. Good for beginners.
Camel Point takes its name from a distinctive camel-shaped rock formation visible from the lineup. The wave is a fun, peaky beach break that works on a variety of conditions. Popular with the surf camp crowd from nearby Essaouira, it offers consistent waves without the crowds of the more famous Taghazout points.
🐪 Camel-shaped rock landmark • Fun beach peaks • Essaouira area
Beach break with distinctive camel-shaped rock.
Near Essaouira. Named for camel-shaped rock.
Sidi Kaouki is a small village south of Essaouira known for its consistent beach break and laid-back vibe. The wave offers quality peaks along a long stretch of beach, though the area is notorious for wind—the same Alizé trade winds that made Essaouira famous for kiting. Early mornings before the wind picks up offer the best conditions. The village has a rustic, spiritual atmosphere with a shrine to the local saint.
🕌 Spiritual village vibes • Quality beach peaks • Windy conditions
Can be windy. Quality peaks when conditions align.
Near Essaouira. Empty waves, long at low tide.
Essaouira is a UNESCO World Heritage city famous for its ancient medina, blue boats, and relentless wind. The beach break in front of the old town offers fun waves when conditions align, but the Alizé trade winds that blow from the northeast make it more famous for kiting and windsurfing than surfing. Early morning before the wind picks up is the window. The beautiful walled city and fresh seafood make it worth a visit regardless.
🏰 UNESCO medina • Windy wind capital • Early morning surf window
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 270°-350°.
UNESCO medina town. Windy but quality peaks.
Cross is a quality right point break located near Banana Point on the Taghazout coast. The wave offers fun, workable walls that are perfect for practicing turns and building speed. Less famous than its neighbors, it often provides an escape from the crowds at the main spots while still delivering quality waves.
✝️ Quality right point • Less crowded • Near Banana Point
Tifnit is a small fishing village south of Agadir where the waves are often empty and the beach stretches for miles. The break offers fun peaks along a sandy beach, with particularly long rides at low tide. The village has maintained its traditional character, with fishermen still using the old methods. A great escape from the busier Taghazout area.
🎣 Traditional fishing village • Empty beach break • Miles of sand
South of Agadir. Empty waves, long at low tide.
Cotton Trees is the crown jewel of Robertsport, a long left point that can offer rides of half a mile or more when conditions align. The wave breaks beneath towering cotton trees in the primary rainforest, creating one of surfing's most unique settings. When SW swells arrive during the rainy season, the wave peels perfectly along the point, offering endless walls and the occasional barrel section. This is world-class surfing in one of the world's most remote locations.
🌳 Half-mile lefts • Rainforest backdrop • Liberia's crown jewel
Remote location. Primary rainforest backdrop.
Crown jewel of Robertsport. Can connect for half-mile rides.
Cassava Point is another world-class left in the Robertsport area, offering long peeling waves that barrel on the inside section. Named for the cassava farms that dot the surrounding hills, this wave is remarkably consistent and virtually uncrowded. The warm tropical water and lush green backdrop make it feel like a dream—one of Africa's hidden gems.
🥔 Long peeling lefts • Warm water paradise • Uncrowded perfection
Solid point break with long walls and barrel sections.
World-class left point. Long peeling waves, uncrowded.
Fisherman's Point is the closest quality wave to Robertsport town, breaking right in front of where the local fishermen launch their boats. The wave is a hollow right that works on all tides and picks up plenty of swell. It's often the first stop for surfers arriving in the area and provides a good introduction to the power and quality of Liberian waves.
🚣 Gateway to Robertsport • Hollow rights • Fishermen's launch point
SW swell season. Closest point to Robertsport town.
Hollow right. Respect the local fishermen.
Shipwreck takes its name from a rusting vessel that lies nearby, a reminder of Liberia's turbulent maritime history. The wave is a powerful left that breaks over a shallow reef, producing hollow, fast barrels when conditions align. It handles more size than some of the other Robertsport spots and is known for its consistency. Experts only when it gets serious.
🚢 Named for the wreck • Powerful reef left • Consistent barrels
SW swell season. Named for nearby wreck.
Exposed reef break. Shallow at low tide.
Exposed reef break. Consistent, hollow. Named for nearby wreck.
Camp Point is part of the remarkable string of left points that make Robertsport a world-class surf destination. The wave offers quality walls and occasional barrel sections over a sandy bottom, making it more forgiving than the reef breaks in the area. A great option for intermediate surfers or for days when other spots are too heavy.
⛺ Forgiving left point • Sandy bottom • Intermediate-friendly
Part of Robertsport point series. Quality lefts.
Cutting Point is named for the channel that cuts through the reef, providing a convenient paddle-out even on bigger days. The wave is a quality left that offers long walls and the occasional barrel section when conditions come together. Like all the Robertsport points, it benefits from SW swells during the rainy season and is largely uncrowded.
✂️ Easy paddle channel • Quality left walls • Uncrowded lineup
SW swell season. Named for cutting channel.
Named for cutting channel. Quality waves.
Jocoli, also known as El Loco, is a reliable left point about a 30-minute walk from Robertsport town. The wave is remarkably consistent, picking up any swell that wraps into the area, and offers long, workable walls perfect for high-performance surfing. The walk keeps the crowds away—not that there are many to begin with in this remote corner of West Africa.
🚶 30-min walk reward • Consistent left • Performance walls
SW swell season. Reliable consistent left.
Jayaji is one of the more remote waves in the Robertsport area, requiring either a long walk or local knowledge to find. The reward is a quality left point that sees virtually no one. Ask around in town for directions—the locals are friendly and happy to point you in the right direction. This is as off-the-grid as surfing gets.
🗺️ Off the grid • Need local directions • Virtually empty
Works best with swells from 210° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-245°.
SW swell season. 2-hour walk from Robertsport.
Tricky to find, ask in Busua for directions.
Vivier Right is the partner wave to Vivier Left, breaking on the opposite side of the same reef. The right is faster and more hollow, working best at lower tides when the reef becomes shallower. It's a beautiful setup—you can surf the right in the morning when it's best, then switch to the left as the tide fills in.
➡️ Fast hollow right • Partner to Vivier Left • Tide-dependent
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 285°-345°.
Winter NW swells. Partner to Vivier Left.
Beautiful shallow reef right. Short but quality when on.
Partner to Vivier Left. Faster, friendlier on lower tide.
Vivier Left is a quality reef break that works on higher tides when its partner Vivier Right becomes too shallow. The wave offers long, walling lefts with occasional barrel sections on the inside. It's one of the more consistent waves in the Dakar area and attracts a loyal local crew.
⬅️ Quality left walls • Higher tide option • Dakar staple
Winter NW swells. Partner to Vivier Right.
Partner to Vivier Right. High quality on higher tide.
Secret Spot sits below the US Embassy on the Almadies Peninsula, Dakar's westernmost point. The wave is a consistent A-frame that offers both a right and a left option depending on the sandbank configuration. It's somewhat sheltered from the wind, making it a good option when other spots are blown out. The name is ironic—it's one of the most surfed spots in Dakar.
🤫 Not-so-secret • Below US Embassy • Consistent A-frame
Winter NW swells. Below US Embassy. Consistent.
Below US Embassy. Sheltered, consistent. Local favorite.
Club Med breaks in front of the old Club Med resort on Ngor Island, producing heavy, hollow rights over a shallow reef. When pure N-NW swells arrive, the wave can barrel for 50 meters or more, drawing comparisons to more famous reef passes. The local crew is tight and the wave is unforgiving—know your limits before paddling out.
🏨 Heavy hollow rights • Old resort landmark • Respect the locals
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 315°-20°.
Winter NW swells. Heavy barrels in front of old Club Med.
Heavy barrels in front of old Club Med. Heavy locals.
N'Gor Left is the powerful counterpart to the famous N'Gor Right, breaking on the opposite side of Ngor Island. The left is less consistent than the right, requiring more north in the swell to really turn on, but when it does, it produces hollow, powerful barrels. It's often less crowded than the right, making it a good option for those willing to wait for the right conditions.
⬅️ N'Gor's other side • Less crowded • Powerful when on
Winter NW swells. Powerful left less consistent than Right.
Powerful left less consistent than Right but quality when on.
Yoff Beach is a friendly beach break in northern Dakar, popular with beginners and longboarders. The wave is a typical sand-bottom peak that works on a variety of conditions and tides. It's one of the most accessible spots in the area, with easy parking and multiple peaks to spread out the crowd.
🏖️ Beginner-friendly • Multiple peaks • Easy access
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 300°-350°.
Winter NW swells. North Dakar beach break.
North Dakar. Beach break for all levels.
Virage is a fun, punchy beach break in northern Dakar known for its long, workable rights. The name means "turn" in French, and the wave delivers—plenty of opportunities for progressive surfing on the fast, hollow walls. A local favorite for its consistency and user-friendly nature.
🔄 Long workable rights • Punchy walls • Local favorite
Winter NW swells. Fun spunky beach break with long rights.
Fun spunky beach break with long rights.
Cap Skirring is a beach resort area in southern Senegal's Casamance region, offering powerful beach break peaks along a beautiful stretch of coast. The area picks up SW swells during the wet season (April-October), offering a different swell window than the Dakar region. The vibe is relaxed, the water warm, and the waves often uncrowded.
🌴 Casamance beach resort • SW swell window • Uncrowded power
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 230°-300°.
Offshore wind from 45° (NE). Offshore range: 20°-90°. Best window: morning.
SW swell season. Southern Senegal beach resort.
Southern Senegal. Beach resort area. Powerful fun beach break.
Yenne is a powerful beach break on the Petite Cote south of Dakar, offering fun, punchy waves for all levels. The beach picks up a mix of NW winter swells and W swells year-round, making it one of the more consistent options in the region. The fishing village atmosphere adds character to the surf experience.
🎣 Petite Cote power • Fishing village vibes • Year-round waves
Works best with swells from 280° (W). Workable range: 240°-300°.
Winter swells. Powerful fun beach break south of Dakar.
Powerful fun beach break south of Dakar.
Catanas Point is a heavy reef break north of Luanda that produces thick, hollow barrels when SW swells arrive during the austral winter. The wave breaks over a shallow reef, demanding respect and experience. When it's on, it's one of the best waves in Angola—powerful, hollow, and virtually uncrowded.
⚡ Thick hollow barrels • Expert-only reef • Angola's heavy wave
SW swell season. Heavy reef break north of Ponta Preta.
Heavy reef break. Expert only, thick barrels.
Heavy reef break north of Ponta Preta. Expert only, thick barrels.
Quicombo is a remote reef break south of Sumbe that acts as a swell magnet for SW groundswells. The wave produces hollow, powerful barrels over a reef that's shallow but relatively forgiving compared to some Angolan spots. The remoteness keeps it virtually uncrowded—you'll likely have it to yourself.
🧲 Swell magnet • Hollow barrels • Virtually empty
SW swell season. Swell magnet 30km from Taghazout.
Swell magnet 30km from Sumbe. Hollow barrels, rarely crowded.
Sumbe is a coastal town in Angola with a fun, punchy beach break that works on SW swells. The waves are hollow and fast, offering good barrels on smaller days and fun walls on bigger swells. The town itself has seen better days but offers a glimpse into colonial-era Angola.
🏖️ Hollow beach break • Fast fun waves • Colonial town vibes
SW swell season. Beach break with hollow fast fun waves.
Beach break with hollow fast fun waves. Remove location.
Beach break with hollow fast fun waves. Remote location.
Buraco is a beach break on the Mussulo peninsula south of Luanda, offering hollow, fast waves in a tropical setting. The spot is popular with Luanda's small but passionate surf community and offers easy access from the capital. When SW swells arrive, the sandbars can produce quality barrels.
🌴 Mussulo peninsula • Hollow fast waves • Luanda's escape
SW swell season. 45km south of Luanda on Mussulo.
45km south of Luanda on Mussulo. Hollow fast fun.
Miradouro is a reliable point break about 55km south of Luanda that picks up swell when other spots are flat. The wave is a quality left that breaks along a rocky point, offering consistent walls and the occasional barrel section. A good backup spot when conditions aren't cooperating elsewhere.
👀 Viewpoint waves • Reliable backup • 55km from Luanda
55km south of Luanda. Reliable when other spots aren't.
Point Mussulo is the most accessible quality wave near Luanda, breaking on the tip of the Mussulo peninsula. The left point offers long, workable walls that attract Luanda's growing surf community. Currents can be strong, but the wave itself is relatively user-friendly.
🏙️ Luanda's local spot • Quality left point • Growing scene
SW swell season. In Luanda. Popular with locals.
In Luanda. Popular with locals, strong currents.
Barra Kwanza sits at the mouth of the Kwanza River, about 80km south of Luanda. The rivermouth creates sandbars that shift with the seasons, producing both lefts and rights depending on conditions. The water can be murky after rains, but the waves can be excellent when the banks are in good shape.
🌊 River mouth setup • Shifting sandbars • 80km from Luanda
80km south of Luanda. Rocky but good for all levels.
Ambriz Beach is a remote beach break north of Luanda, offering quality waves with virtually no one around. The town of Ambriz was once an important Portuguese trading post, and the colonial-era buildings add historical interest to the surf trip. The beach produces fun peaks when SW swells arrive.
🏛️ Colonial history • Remote beach break • Empty lineup
SW swell season. North of Luanda near airport.
Cape Three Points is Ghana's southernmost point, where the coastline juts into the Atlantic and picks up swells from multiple directions. The beach break here is remarkably consistent, with SW swells wrapping around the cape to create fun, workable waves. The backdrop of rainforest-covered cliffs makes it one of the most scenic surf spots in West Africa.
🌿 Ghana's southern tip • Rainforest backdrop • Consistent peaks
SW swell season. Ghana's southernmost point. Consistent waves.
Consistent waves. Stunning rainforest cliffs backdrop.
Black Mamba is a quality right point break that requires a 20-minute paddle from Busua Beach. The effort is rewarded with long, walling rights that peel along a rocky point. The wave earned its intimidating name not from danger, but from the fast, snaking walls it produces. A local favorite for those willing to make the paddle.
🐍 Fast snaking rights • 20-min paddle • Worth the effort
SW swell season. 20-min paddle from Busua.
20-min paddle from Busua. Quality right point.
Mutrekti Point is a quality right-hand point break west of Takoradi, offering long, workable walls when SW swells arrive. The wave is relatively uncrowded and offers a good alternative to the busier Busua area. The point setup means the wave is consistent and predictable once you learn the takeoff zone.
👉 Quality right point • West of Takoradi • Uncrowded walls
SW swell season. Quality right hand point west of Takoradi.
Quality right hand point west of Takoradi.
Busua Beach is the heart of Ghana's surf scene, a small fishing village that has become the country's surfing capital. The beach offers fun peaks for beginners, while the nearby reef produces quality waves for more experienced surfers. The local community has embraced surfing, with several surf schools and a growing number of local surfers.
🏄 Ghana's surf capital • Beach and reef • Growing scene
SW swell season. Ghana's surf capital. Beach and reef combo.
Ghana's surf capital. Beach and reef break combo.
Dixcove Point breaks in front of a historic fort and fishing village, offering quality right-hand waves that are often less crowded than nearby Busua. The colonial-era Fort Metal Cross adds historical interest to the surf trip. The point handles more size than the beach breaks in the area.
🏰 Historic fort backdrop • Quality rights • Less crowded
SW swell season. Near fishing town. Waves for everyone.
Near fishing town. Waves for everyone, less crowded than Busua.
Gomoa Fetteh is a right point break closer to Accra that can produce incredibly long rides when conditions align. On big SW swells, the wave has been known to peel for up to 3 kilometers, making it potentially one of the longest waves in Africa. The setup is still relatively unknown but has attracted attention from traveling surfers.
🏃 3km rides possible • Long point break • Near Accra
Ideal size: 1.5m. Too small below 1m, too big (closeout) above 2m.
SW swell season. Can break for 3km when pumping.
Achenim is a point break near a fishing village just outside Accra, offering the capital's residents a quick surf option when SW swells arrive. The wave is a quality right that peels along a rocky point, providing good walls for performance surfing. The proximity to Accra means it can get busy on weekends.
🎣 Near Accra • Fishing village point • Quick surf fix
SW swell season. Near Accra. Achenim fishing village.
Labadi Beach is Accra's most famous beach, a lively stretch of sand where the city comes to play on weekends. The surf is generally small and mellow, perfect for beginners learning to catch their first waves. The beach clubs and restaurants add to the festive atmosphere.
🎉 Accra's party beach • Beginner waves • Lively scene
Ideal size: 1.2m. Too small below 0.6m, too big (closeout) above 1.8m.
Alibaba is a world-class A-frame reef break on Sal Island, producing fast, hollow barrels over volcanic rock. The right is longer and more makeable, but the left offers its own rewards. When big NW swells hit, the wave transforms into a serious proposition, demanding respect and experience. One of the Atlantic's best waves.
⚡ World-class A-frame • Volcanic reef • Atlantic's best
Ideal size: 2.9m. Too small below 1.8m, too big (closeout) above 4m.
Winter NW swells. World-class A-frame. Fast shallow barrels over volcanic reef.
World-class A-frame. Fast shallow barrels over volcanic reef.
Monte Leão is a long right-hander on Sal Island that works on bigger NW swells. The wave breaks near the airport, making it convenient for surfers with limited time. The volcanic coastline provides a dramatic backdrop, and the wave offers consistent walls with the occasional barrel section.
🦁 Lion Mountain waves • Near airport • Long rights
Winter NW swells. Long right-hander near airport.
Long right-hander near airport. Works on bigger NW swells.
Palmeira is a powerful reef break near the fishing port on Sal's west coast. The wave handles bigger swells than many other spots on the island, producing heavy barrels when conditions align. The fishing village atmosphere adds authenticity to the experience.
🌴 Fishing port power • Handles size • Heavy barrels
Winter NW swells. 30min from Santa Maria. Works on bigger swells.
30min from Santa Maria. Works on bigger swells.
Praia Negra (Black Beach) on Santiago Island gets its name from the dark volcanic sand. The beach offers a range of conditions—heavy and hollow in winter when big NW swells arrive, but more forgiving in summer. The main island of Cape Verde offers a more authentic experience than tourist-focused Sal.
🖤 Black volcanic sand • Heavy winter waves • Santiago Island
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 315°-30°.
Winter NW swells. Wide beach. Heavy in winter.
Wide beach. Heavy in winter, beginner-friendly summer.
Tarrafal de Monte Trigo is a remote fishing village on Santo Antão Island accessible only by boat or a long hike. The remoteness means you'll likely surf alone, with powerful waves breaking on volcanic rock. The NE trade winds blow offshore here, creating excellent conditions when swells arrive.
🚣 Boat access only • Pristine isolation • Trade wind perfection
Winter NW swells. N and S exposure, dead offshore in NE trades.
N and S exposure, dead offshore in NE trades.
180 minutes drive from VXE airport. Requires boat access ($50/day).
São Pedro is a beach break on São Vicente Island, home to Cape Verde's cultural capital Mindelo. The wave offers fun peaks for all levels, with the dramatic mountainous backdrop of the island adding visual interest. The beach is popular with locals and visitors alike.
🎭 Cultural capital surf • Beach break fun • Mindelo vibes
Winter NW swells. Popular spot on São Vicente.
Ervatao is a left point on Boa Vista's windward east coast, catching wrapping NW swells that refract around the island. The wave offers long, workable walls in a remote setting, with sea turtles nesting on the beaches nearby. One of Cape Verde's hidden gems.
🐢 Turtle beach left • Remote windward • Wrapping swells
Winter NW swells. Tasty wrapping left on windward east side.
Tasty wrapping left on windward east side.
Praia de Santa Mónica is a stunning beach on Boa Vista's southwest coast, named after the famous California beach. The wave is a fun left that breaks along the endless white sand beach. When NE trade winds blow, conditions here are often offshore and clean. One of Cape Verde's most beautiful surf settings.
🏖️ Cape Verde's Santa Monica • Endless beach • Trade wind groomed
SW and NW swells. Sandy SW coast. Offshore in NE winds.
Los Lobos is the longest wave in the Canary Islands, a right-hand point break on the small island of the same name that can offer rides of 500 meters or more when conditions align. The wave breaks over volcanic reef, requiring a boat ride from Corralejo to access. When big N-NW swells arrive, Los Lobos transforms into a world-class wave.
🐺 Canaries' longest wave • 500m rides • Boat access island
Offshore wind from 180° (S). Offshore range: 150°-220°. Best window: morning.
Winter NW-N swells. Longest wave in Canaries. 500m+ rides possible.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🦔 Urchins, 🚶 Difficult access
Longest wave in Canaries. 500m+ rides possible. Sharp reef, volcanic setting.
90 minutes drive from FUE airport. Requires boat access ($30/day).
El Hierro, also known as The Bubble, is the heaviest wave in the Canary Islands—a shallow, hollow right that has been compared to Pipeline. The wave breaks over volcanic rock just below the surface, producing thick, grinding barrels that close out violently. This is a wave for professionals and experienced chargers only. Multiple serious injuries have occurred here.
💀 Europe's Pipeline • Heaviest Canaries wave • Pros only
Winter N-NW swells. Pipeline of Europe. Extremely dangerous.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs
Pipeline of Europe. Extremely dangerous, heavy slabs. Pros only.
Famara is a 6-kilometer beach break that serves as Lanzarote's surf capital. The dramatic cliffs of the Famara massif provide a stunning backdrop to the multiple peaks that dot the beach. The wave works on all tides and catches plenty of swell, making it one of the most consistent surf spots in the Canaries. Surf schools and camps line the beach, creating a vibrant surf community.
🏔️ 6km beach break • Cliff backdrop • Lanzarote's surf hub
Works best with swells from 330° (NNW). Workable range: 315°-0°.
Year-round swells. Lanzarote's surf mecca. Multiple peaks along 6km beach.
Lanzarote's surf mecca. Multiple peaks along 6km beach.
Spew Pits is named for the urchin-covered reef that will make you wish you hadn't wiped out. The wave is a hollow reef break that produces fast, punchy barrels, but the shallow, spiky reef demands respect. Located on Fuerteventura's north coast, it picks up plenty of swell and works on multiple conditions.
🦔 Urchin-covered reef • Fast barrels • Respect the spikes
Winter N-NW swells. Consistent hollow left near La Santa.
Consistent hollow left near La Santa. Technical.
Ghost Town is a hollow left reef break near the famous El Quemao on Lanzarote's northwest coast. The wave breaks in front of what looks like an abandoned development (hence the name), producing radical, hollow barrels over volcanic reef. It's often less crowded than its famous neighbor, but equally demanding.
👻 Abandoned development • Radical left barrels • El Quemao's neighbor
Winter N-NW swells. Hollow radical near El Quemao.
El Cotillo is a charming fishing village on Fuerteventura's northwest coast with multiple surf spots. The main break produces fun lefts that peel along a cobblestone bottom, with a dramatic shipwreck visible from the lineup. The village has become a surf town, with cafes and accommodation catering to wave riders.
🚢 Shipwreck backdrop • Cobblestone lefts • Surf village charm
Offshore wind from 135° (SE). Offshore range: 100°-180°. Best window: morning.
Year-round swells. Left peeling over cobbles beside shipwreck in port.
Lefts peeling over cobbles beside shipwreck in port.
Westpoint is a right-hand point break in the Dakhla lagoon region, known for both surfing and kiteboarding. The spot has developed some infrastructure with small camps offering accommodation. When NW swells wrap into the area, the point produces long, workable rights in a desert setting.
🏜️ Desert point break • Surf and kite • Camp culture
Winter NW swells. Wave and kite spot with accommodation.
Pointe de l'Or (Golden Point) is named for the golden sunset light that bathes this quality right-hand point break near Dakhla. The wave offers long, workable walls in an utterly remote desert setting. When conditions align, this is one of the most scenic surf spots in Africa.
✨ Golden light • Quality rights • Desert solitude
Winter NW swells. Golden Point. Quality right hand point.
Lassarga was discovered in 2015 and quickly earned a reputation as one of the best waves in the Dakhla region. The reef break produces complete, generous rights that offer multiple sections and the occasional barrel. The remote location keeps crowds minimal, and the consistent wind patterns mean it's often offshore.
🆕 Discovered 2015 • Best in region • Complete waves
Winter NW swells. Discovered 2015. Complete generous wave, one of best in region.
Discovered 2015. Complete generous wave, one of best in region.
Oumlaabour is a consistent left point break on the Western Sahara coast, picking up swell that misses more sheltered spots. The wave offers long, workable walls in a stark desert environment. When the wind cooperates, it's one of the most consistent options in the Dakhla area.
⬅️ Consistent left point • Desert backdrop • Swell magnet
Winter NW swells. Exposed point. Consistent, quality when clean.
Exposed point. Consistent, quality when clean.
La Corniche is a beach break near the town of Laayoune, offering multiple peaks along a stretch of sand. The area sees very few surfers despite consistent waves, making it a good option for those seeking uncrowded surf in an unusual destination.
🏖️ Near Laayoune • Multiple peaks • Virtually empty
Winter NW swells. Near Laayoune. Multiple peaks, uncrowded.
Near Laayoune. Multiple peaks, uncrowded.
Dakhla airport is the practical gateway; local transfers handle the final coastal access.
Foum El Oued is a beach and point break near Dakhla that produces quality rights when NW swells arrive. The setup is similar to other spots in the region but often less crowded. A good option when conditions favor a more northerly swell direction.
➡️ Quality right point • Near Dakhla • Consistent option
Winter NW swells. Near Dakhla. Quality right point.
Fly into Laayoune (EUN), then short road transfer to the Foum El Oued coast.
Cap Blanc is Mauritania's northernmost point, where the coastline juts into the Atlantic and catches NW swells. The wave is a quality right that breaks in front of a seal colony (and yes, sharks are a consideration). This is frontier surfing at its most remote—few surfers have ever ridden these waves.
🦭 Seal colony point • Frontier surfing • Mauritania's north tip
Winter NW swells. Mauritania's northernmost point. Quality when clean.
Mauritania's northernmost point. Quality when clean.
Nouadhibou is Mauritania's second-largest city, a port town on a peninsula that catches Atlantic swells. The coastline offers various peaks and points that remain almost completely unexplored by surfers. The famous ship graveyard and remote location make this one of the world's most unusual surf destinations.
🚢 Ship graveyard city • Unexplored coastline • True frontier
Winter NW swells. Main coastal city. Various breaks.
La Izquierda is a powerful left-hand reef break in Tenerife that produces heavy barrels when north swells hit. The wave breaks in front of what was once a Club Med resort and attracts a committed local crew. The freight-train speed demands respect and expert-level ability.
🚂 Freight-train lefts • Tenerife's heaviest • Local crew territory
Heavy barrels in Playa de las Americas. Freight train left reef.
El Confital is one of the best waves in the Canary Islands and has hosted numerous WSL events. This powerful right-hand reef produces heavy, barreling waves when solid north swells arrive. The local crew is legendary and territorial. When it's on, El Confital rivals any wave in Europe.
🏆 WSL contest venue • Heavy reef barrels • Canaries' premier right
Heavy reef break. Pro-level when big. WSL event venue.
Near Las Palmas. Protected bay near La Isleta.
San Juan is a technical left-hand reef break near the famous La Santa zone. The wave offers consistent hollow sections when north swells hit, with a tricky paddle-out over the reef. A good option for experienced surfers wanting to escape La Santa crowds.
⬅️ La Santa zone left • Consistent hollow • Technical paddle-out
Chickens is a fun left reef break in the La Santa area that offers hollow waves without the intensity of nearby El Quemao. Named for the local farm chickens, it's a popular option for sampling the La Santa zone without tackling its heaviest waves.
🐔 La Santa option • Hollow but forgiving • Named for farm chickens
Hollow waves near La Santa. More forgiving than El Quemao.
Untouchables is a remote quality right-hander in the Dakhla wilderness. The name reflects its isolation - reaching it requires a 4x4 and commitment. Those who make the journey are rewarded with empty perfect waves.
🔒 Named for isolation • Perfect right • 4x4 mission
Remote quality right handle. 4x4 essential.
Patos is a quality reef break in the remote Dakhla coastline offering consistent waves over a volcanic reef. The wave has good shape and rewards the long drive from town.
🦆 Remote reef break • Quality shape • Empty desert lineup
Durban North Beach is one of South Africa's classic urban beach breaks, a warm-water setup shaped by piers, sand movement and the constant energy of the Golden Mile. It is far more accessible than the country's remote points, but it still has power, sweep and crowd pressure when the banks are good. Best sessions come with clean morning land breezes and organized E-SE swell.
Durban city surf • Warm water peaks • Morning land-breeze window
Works best with swells from 110° (ESE). Workable range: 80°-130°.
Best months: Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep.
Shark nets in place. Warm water year-round.
Plettenberg Wedge is a bodyboard-friendly wedge setup near Plettenberg Bay, known for short, explosive peaks when swell rebounds off structure and sand. It is not a mellow family beach wave: the takeoff can be abrupt, the sand bottom shifts, and the best days suit confident surfers and bodyboarders who understand shorebreak dynamics.
Plett wedge • Bodyboard-friendly peaks • Shifting sand setup
Works best with swells from 170° (S). Workable range: 150°-190°.
Offshore wind from 270° (W). Offshore range: 250°-290°. Best window: morning.
Victoria Bay is the flagship wave of the Garden Route: a right-hand point that rolls over small boulder-like rocks for around 200 meters down a narrow, cliff-lined cove between George and Wilderness. Locals call it Vic Bay, and it has hosted contests since the Vic Bay Quad launched in 1976, returning to the WSL Africa qualifying series in 2019. Olympic surfer Bianca Buitendag credits her foundation to growing up on this wave. It is very consistent, holds from waist-high to well overhead, and the inside beach break turns on when the point is small, but the takeoff zone is tight and the crowd knows it.
👑 Southern Cape's premier right point • 200m boulder-bottom walls • Contest pedigree since 1976
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 155°-210°.
Ideal size: 2.4m. Too small below 0.8m, too big (closeout) above 4m.
Offshore wind from 338° (NNW). Offshore range: 300°-15°. Best window: morning.
Winter groundswells peak around June; rideable most of March through December.
🪨 Rocks, 🌀 Strong rips, 🦈 Sharks, 👊 Localism, 👥 Crowded
Boulder rocks under the takeoff, tight lineup that packs out fast. Locals are friendly if you wait your turn.
surf-forecast.com + Wannasurf (Jul 2026)
Herolds Bay is a small resort cove tucked between George and Mossel Bay, where peaky sand-and-rock banks throw up hollow, punchy lefts and rights when an easterly swell lines up with a light morning berg wind. The setting is classic Garden Route: a 1935 tidal pool, ancient rock formations framing the beach, and a village that stays sleepy outside holiday season. It rarely gets crowded, but respect the water here, as the rips on both sides of the cove are genuinely treacherous.
🌊 Cove peaks near George • Hollow on its day • Ten minutes from the airport
Works best with swells from 135° (SE). Workable range: 90°-180°.
Offshore wind from 340° (NNW). Offshore range: 315°-20°. Best window: morning.
Winter is most consistent, June especially, though clean days are not frequent.
Currents on both sides of the bay are extremely treacherous; several bathers have drowned here. Rocks flank the peaks.
Public access, short walk from the village parking.
Outer Pool is the outside peak of Mossel Bay's double point setup at the Point, a fast, hollow right-hander that barrels over a sharp rock ledge for rides of 150 to 300 meters. Rated world class and very consistent, it works from about a meter and holds solid four-meter winter swell. It wants a south to southeast groundswell, a westerly offshore and the lower half of a rising tide, and it demands experience: urchins, rocks and a proud local crew all come with the package.
⚡ Mossel Bay's premier right • Barreling point ledge • Low-tide winter machine
Works best with swells from 157° (SSE). Workable range: 135°-225°.
Offshore wind from 270° (W). Offshore range: 225°-300°. Best window: morning.
Winter delivers; June is the standout month. Summer tends to go flat.
🦔 Urchins, 🪨 Rocks, 🦈 Sharks, 👊 Localism
Urchins and sharp rock on the ledge. Great white territory. Established local pecking order.
Instant public access from Point Street.
Inner Pool is the mellower inside peak of the Mossel Bay Point setup, a right-hand reef that breaks off the rocks in a small inlet next to Outer Pool. It tends to be slower and mushier than its big brother, but it walls up nicely on its day and often has rideable waves when Outer Pool is flat. A regional classic, very consistent and open to all surfers, it makes the sensible first paddle-out at the Point.
🌊 Friendly inside right • Works when Outer sleeps • Rock ledge runner
Winter is prime; late winter (August) is the most consistent stretch.
Urchins and rocks on the inside ledge. Great white territory.
Diaz Beach is Mossel Bay's long sandy stretch, breaking directly in front of the old Dias hotel with lefts and rights spread across kilometers of shifting banks. Named for Bartolomeu Dias, who landed in this bay in 1488, it is one of the Southern Cape's best places to learn: sandy bottom, manageable peaks and a town that claims one of the mildest year-round climates anywhere. It needs a decent southeast swell to get going inside the protected bay, and the rips deserve respect when it does.
🌊 Mossel Bay sandbanks • Learner-friendly peaks • Historic 1488 landing
Works best with swells from 135° (SE). Workable range: 100°-180°.
Offshore wind from 292° (WNW). Offshore range: 270°-330°. Best window: morning.
Winter is most consistent; the bay blocks a lot of swell, so it is often too small.
Rips can make it dangerous. Great whites live in the bay, though incidents are very rare.
Buffalo Bay, Buffelsbaai to locals, is a protected curve of sand just south of the Knysna Heads, where overlapping reefs inside Walker Point serve up a consistent, slow-breaking right-hander with beach peaks running down the bay. It is considered one of the safest beaches on the Garden Route, sheltered from the rips that plague this coastline, and surf schools have operated here since 2008. The bay borders the Goukamma Marine Protected Area, hosts an annual surf contest, and stays uncrowded outside summer weekends.
🌊 Protected Knysna cove • Slow right off Walker Point • Beginner heaven
Works best with swells from 135° (SE). Workable range: 100°-190°.
Offshore wind from 270° (W). Offshore range: 245°-300°. Best window: morning.
Protected cove with rideable waves most of the year; groundswells outnumber windswells.
One of the safer Garden Route beaches, but sharks (including hammerheads) are seen in the bay.
Side road off the N2, about 15km from Knysna.
Still Bay Point is the main right-hander at Stilbaai, wrapping around the Morris Point headland just east of the harbour on the Southern Cape coast. It is a grinding right point with a classic mid-break section and, on the bigger days, a deep and thick outside section that ledges over the reef. Rides run 50 to 150 meters normally and stretch well past 200 on a proper winter swell. It starts working around a meter and holds four meters and more, but it is powerful and ledgey rather than forgiving, and a strong rip pushes down the rocks when it is big. Weekdays are usually empty; summer weekends are the only time it gets busy.
⚡ Grinding Southern Cape right • Ledgey point reef • High-tide winter groundswell
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 157°-240°.
Offshore wind from 270° (W). Offshore range: 202°-340°. Best window: morning.
Winter groundswell season, with June the most reliable month for clean surf.
🪨 Rocks, 🦔 Urchins, 🌀 Strong rips, 🦈 Sharks
Sharp reef and urchins under the takeoff. When it is big a strong rip pushes you down the rocks. Great white activity along this stretch of the Southern Cape.
Wannasurf + surf-forecast.com + mystilbaai.co.za, tipped by Llewellyn Whittaker (Jul 2026)
Head towards the harbour and turn right onto the dirt road just before it. Under five minutes on foot from the parking.
Maycocks is Barbados's answer to J-Bay—a long, perfectly lined-up right that peels along a coral reef on the northwest coast. When clean N-NW swells arrive in winter, the wave offers multiple barrel sections connected by racing walls. The east trade winds blow offshore here, creating groomed conditions most mornings. One of the Caribbean's true world-class waves.
🔥 Caribbean J-Bay • Perfect right walls • Winter swell magnet
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 320°-20°.
Winter N-NW swells. Hurricane swells in fall.
Sharp reef. Strong currents on bigger swells.
Gas Chambers lives up to its name—a heavy, hollow reef break that produces some of the most intense tubes in the Caribbean. Located on Puerto Rico's northwest coast near Aguadilla, the wave jacks up over shallow reef and throws thick, square barrels. Not for the faint of heart, but when it's on, it's one of Caribbean's most intense experiences.
⚡ Intense hollow tubes • Heavy reef break • Caribbean barrel factory
Winter NW swells. Hurricane swells possible.
Heavy, hollow tubes. Name earned from intense barrels.
Cane Garden Bay is the Caribbean's hidden gem—a picture-perfect point break that only comes alive a few dozen days per year. When due N swells wrap into this protected bay on Tortola's north shore, long, peeling rights spin down the reef with mechanical precision. The setting is paradise: palm-fringed beach, crystal water, and often just a handful of surfers.
💎 Caribbean's secret point • Rare perfection • Tortola treasure
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 340°-30°.
Point break over reef. Currents on bigger days.
Tortola north shore. Only fires 20-30 days/year.
Bluff Beach is Panama's most powerful beach break—a heavy, hollow shorey that throws square pits onto the sand of Isla Colón. The wave has a reputation for snapping boards and delivering beatdowns, but also for producing some of the Caribbean's most photogenic barrels. Part of the Bocas del Toro archipelago, it's a tropical surf destination with consistent winter swell.
💥 Caribbean Supertubos • Heavy shorebreak • Bocas barrel factory
Winter NE swells. Consistent beach break.
Strong rips. Occasional shark sightings.
La Preciosa is one of the Dominican Republic's finest waves—a powerful left that breaks over an outer reef near Rio San Juan. When solid N swells push in, the wave produces long, hollow barrels with serious consequences. Less crowded than the Cabarete area breaks, this is where serious surfers come to score quality tubes on the north coast.
🔥 DR's outer reef gem • Powerful left barrels • North coast excellence
Paunch is the wave that put Bocas del Toro on the surfing map. This versatile reef break offers something for everyone—hollow barrel sections for the chargers, long open walls for the cruisers. The wave breaks both ways with multiple takeoff zones, making it work through most tides and swell angles. A true Caribbean gem.
🌴 Bocas signature wave • Barrels to walls • Complete package
Domes is Rincón's most photogenic wave—a super-pitchy right that throws over shallow reef right next to the decommissioned nuclear facility dome. When winter swells light up Puerto Rico's west coast, Domes delivers hollow barrels that have graced countless magazine covers. On smaller days, it mellows into a fun intermediate wave.
☢️ Nuclear barrels • Rincón's crown jewel • Winter swell magnet
Winter NW swells. Named for nuclear dome nearby.
Rincón. Named after nearby nuclear facility dome.
Boca de Yumuri is Cuba's best-kept secret—a classic cobblestone point break at the mouth of the Yumuri River near Baracoa. When NE swells wrap into this remote corner of eastern Cuba, long, perfect right walls peel along the rivermouth with world-class form. Getting here is an adventure in itself, but the reward is empty perfection.
🇨🇺 Cuba's hidden gem • Rivermouth perfection • Empty lineups
Far eastern Cuba near Baracoa. Fly to Santiago de Cuba (SCU), then ~4.5hr drive over the La Farola pass. Classic cobblestone rivermouth point.
Makka (also known as Yallahs) is Jamaica's premier barrel—a heavy, hollow right that breaks over sharp reef near Kingston. This wave has hosted pro events and earned the respect of traveling surfers worldwide. The local crew is tight-knit and the wave demands skill, but when it's firing, it's Caribbean elite.
🇯🇲 Jamaica's best barrel • Heavy reef right • Local crew respected
Mount Irvine is where the Atlantic meets the Caribbean—Tobago's most consistent surf spot delivering quality waves almost daily in season. The reef break produces long rights with hollow sections, working through most tides and handling solid size. The mellow vibe and warm water make it perfect for intermediate to advanced surfers.
🌊 Tobago's consistent gem • Atlantic meets Caribbean • Quality right reef
Winter NW swells. Tobago's most accessible.
Middles is Puerto Rico's most challenging wave—a fast, powerful reef break that delivers Hawaiian-style barrels on the north coast. The wave breaks hard and fast over shallow reef, demanding commitment and experience. When overhead swells arrive, it's a serious proving ground that separates the locals from the visitors.
⚡ Hawaiian power in PR • Fast reef barrels • Experts only
Winter swells. Challenging, fast, barreling.
Pelle à Tarte is Martinique's most spectacular wave—an imposing, hollow reef break on the Caravelle Peninsula that demands respect. The wave produces thick, tubular barrels that spit and thunder, reserved for experienced surfers who can handle the power and shallow reef. French Caribbean perfection.
🇫🇷 Martinique's crown jewel • Heavy hollow reef • Experienced only
Winter swells. Imposing, hollow, tubular.
La Bouëlle is Guadeloupe's premier wave—a strong, punchy right-hand reef break near Le Moule on Grande-Terre's east coast. The wave offers long rides with hollow sections, and on smaller days can produce dreamy walls reminiscent of Noosa. French Caribbean surfing at its finest.
🇬🇵 Guadeloupe's best • Punchy right reef • French Caribbean quality
Winter swells. Strong, punchy, right point.
El Barco is a powerful right-hand reef break near Rio San Juan that delivers fast, hollow waves when N swells hit the Dominican Republic's north coast. Named after a shipwreck in the lineup, the wave breaks hard and fast over shallow reef. A short left is also available for those willing to charge.
🚢 Shipwreck reef • Fast hollow rights • DR's north coast power
Winter N swells. Powerful, fast, hollow.
Short left waves available. Not for beginners.
Marias is Rincón's long, spread-out right—a wave that connects through multiple sections when good NW swells hit Puerto Rico's west coast. The reef produces fast walls with occasional barrel sections, making it a favorite for both shortboarders and longboarders. A classic Caribbean wave.
🌴 Rincón's long right • Multiple sections • Classic Caribbean
Dogman's sits between Marias and Tres Palmas, offering shallower, hollower waves than its neighbors. Both lefts and rights break over the reef, with the rights being particularly hollow when the swell is right. A step up in intensity from the surrounding breaks.
🐕 Between the icons • Hollow reef peaks • Rincón's hidden power
Works best with swells from 340° (NNW). Workable range: 310°-10°.
Indicators is Rincón's big-wave option—a right-hand reef break that turns on when the other spots are maxing out. Named for a rock that "indicates" when the swell is big enough, this wave offers long walls and occasional barrels for those willing to paddle into solid Puerto Rican juice.
📊 Rincón's size indicator • Big wave option • Quality when maxed
Ideal size: 2.6m. Too small below 1.5m, too big (closeout) above 3.7m.
Needs size. Named for the indicator rock.
Box by Box is Soup Bowl's heavier neighbor—a grinding left that breaks into shallow reef with serious consequences. This is where Barbados prodigy Zander Venezia honed his skills, and it remains a proving ground for those seeking more intensity than Soup Bowl delivers. Expert only.
📦 Soup Bowl's heavy neighbor • Zander's training ground • Serious reef left
Winter swells. Quality when Soup Bowl is too big.
Serious consequences. Where Zander Venezia surfed.
Bathsheba area. Soup Bowl's heavier neighbor.
Batts Rock is Barbados's west coast secret—a Pipeline-esque reef break that only turns on when rare N swells wrap around the island. When it works, the wave produces thick, wedging barrels that drop into shallow reef. One of the Caribbean's most elusive waves.
🔥 Caribbean Pipeline • Rare N swell magic • West coast secret
Pipeline-esque drop into wedging barrels.
West coast. Perfect when rare N swells wrap in.
Surfer's Beach on Eleuthera has been called the second-best surfing beach in the world by those who've experienced it on a good day. The pink-sand beach break delivers punchy, hollow waves in crystal-clear water, with consistently clean conditions thanks to offshore trades. A Bahamian paradise.
🏝️ Bahamas' best beach break • Pink sand perfection • Caribbean Hawaii
Offshore wind from 225° (SW). Offshore range: 190°-270°. Best window: morning.
Winter swells. Most consistent in Bahamas.
Shark sightings. Strong currents possible.
180 minutes drive from NAS airport. Requires boat access ($50/day).
Eleuthera island. Ferry or flight from Nassau.
Carnero Point on Isla Carenero is one of Bocas del Toro's most consistent waves—a quality right that breaks over reef in the channel between islands. A short boat ride from town, it offers reliable surf when other spots are too big or blown out. Classic Caribbean point surf.
🚤 Bocas' reliable right • Island point break • Boat access perfection
Winter swells. Consistent quality right.
One of DR's most iconic. Consistent quality right over reef.
10 minutes drive from BOC airport. Requires boat access ($10/day).
Bocas del Toro. Short boat ride from main island.
Bull Bay - Copa is Jamaica's original surf spot and the birthplace of Jamaican wave riding. The right-hand reef break produces neat, hollow wedges that have been ridden for decades by the tight-knit local crew. Respect is earned here through time in the water and aloha spirit.
🇯🇲 Jamaica's OG wave • Hollow reef wedges • Birthplace of JA surfing
Works best with swells from 157° (SSE). Workable range: 120°-195°.
Offshore wind from 340° (NNW). Offshore range: 295°-25°. Best window: morning.
Respect the local crew. Neat, hollow wedges.
East of Kingston. Jamaica's original surf spot.
The Zoo is Bull Bay's heavy left—a fast, tubular wave that breaks over shallow coral when solid swells hit Jamaica's south coast. Named for the wild conditions it produces, this wave can handle serious size and delivers serious consequences. Advanced surfers only.
🦁 Bull Bay's heavy left • Fast tubular reef • Wild conditions
Needs solid swell. Mellowest best when on.
Strong, fast, tubular right up to 5m over shallow coral.
Anse Couleuvre is Martinique's remote north coast gem—a strong, fast right that breaks over shallow coral reef. The wave requires a scenic drive through rainforest to reach, but rewards with uncrowded, powerful surf when N swells arrive. French Caribbean adventure surfing.
🌴 Remote Martinique right • Rainforest access • Uncrowded power
Cocoa is Martinique's most dangerous wave—a fast, powerful left that breaks over sharp reef on the Tartane peninsula. The wave demands respect and experience, with shallow coral and strong currents creating serious consequences. For expert surfers only.
⚠️ Martinique's heaviest • Sharp reef left • Experts only
Most dangerous spot on island due to reef.
Tartane peninsula. Technical reef entry.
Anse Bertrand is Guadeloupe's world-class left—a long, walling wave that peels along the reef on the north tip of Grande-Terre. A local favorite that comes alive from December to April, this wave draws surfers from across the French Caribbean when winter swells arrive.
🇬🇵 Guadeloupe's premier left • Local favorite • Winter perfection
Winter swells. World-class left. Local favorite.
Local favorite. Works December to April.
North Grande-Terre. Guadeloupe surf hub.
Parlour is Bathsheba's most versatile wave—offering everything from gentle shoulders for learners to triple-overhead bombs for chargers. The reef break works through a variety of conditions, making it the most consistent option in the Bathsheba area. A great introduction to Barbados surfing.
🌊 Bathsheba's all-rounder • Shoulders to bombs • Most consistent
Year-round. Gentle shoulders to triple overhead bombs.
Many looks - gentle shoulders to triple overhead bombs.
Bathsheba. Most consistent in Bathsheba area.
Toco sits at Trinidad's northeastern tip where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea. This scenic reef break delivers serious waves when winter swells arrive, with tube time available for those who can handle the power. The long drive from Port of Spain keeps crowds minimal.
🌊 Where oceans meet • Trinidad's NE tip • Uncrowded power
Winter swells. Scenic spot where Atlantic meets Caribbean.
Scenic spot where Atlantic meets Caribbean. Waves to 8ft+, serious tube time.
Northeast Trinidad. Remote drive from Port of Spain.
Destroyers earned its name—a very fast, shallow reef break near Cabarete that produces nice barrels but demands respect. The wave breaks hard over coral, destroying boards and egos alike. When conditions align, it's one of the north coast's most exciting waves.
💥 Name earned • Fast shallow barrels • Board breaker
Winter swells. Very fast and shallow with nice barrels.
Very fast and shallow with nice barrels. Name earned.
Jobos is Puerto Rico's most versatile north coast wave—offering long, smooth rights for experienced surfers and a mellow inside section for beginners. The reef break handles a variety of conditions and delivers consistent surf throughout the winter season. A great all-around spot.
🌴 PR's all-levels spot • Long smooth rights • Beginner to expert
Long, smooth rights. Consistent expert section plus beginner-friendly inside.
Surfer's Beach in Aguadilla is Puerto Rico's historic contest venue—host of the 1998 World Championship. The reef break delivers extended rights and punchy lefts, with consistent conditions making it a reliable option on the northwest coast. A piece of Caribbean surfing history.
🏆 1998 World Champ venue • Extended rights • PR surf history
Winter swells. 1998 World Championship venue.
Most consistent spot in BVI. Clean, fast waves. Hosted international contests.
Apple Bay is the British Virgin Islands' most consistent surf spot—a reef break on Tortola's north shore that picks up more swell than anywhere else in the territory. When winter swells arrive, clean, fast waves peel along the reef, drawing the small but dedicated BVI surf community.
🍎 BVI's most consistent • Tortola's surf hub • Clean reef waves
Winter swells. Most consistent spot in BVI.
Most consistent spot in BVI. Clean, fast waves.
Dumpees is Bocas del Toro's sucky tube machine—a wave originally discovered by bodysurfers but now ridden by stand-up surfers who can handle the thick, pitching barrels. The wave jacks up fast over shallow reef and spits hard. Technical but rewarding.
🫧 Bocas' sucky tubes • Bodysurfer origins • Technical barrels
Winter swells. Bocas paradise but surfers score too.
BodySurfer's paradise but surfers score too. Sucky tubes.
La Chapelle (also known as Plombier) is Guadeloupe's pit machine—a reef break that produces slot-like tubes makeable for intermediate surfers when winter swells arrive. The wave offers a step up in intensity from nearby breaks while remaining accessible to competent surfers.
⛪ Guadeloupe's pit machine • Slot tubes • Intermediate-friendly barrels
Northern Grande-Terre. Near Anse Bertrand.
Garbanzos is Abaco's quality reef break—a right-hander that draws surfers from Florida and the US East Coast seeking warmer water and fewer crowds. When NE swells hit the Bahamas, this reef produces consistent, workable waves in a tropical paradise setting.
🏝️ Abaco's quality right • Florida surfers' escape • Tropical reef
Solid Abaco reef break. Receives Florida/US East Coast surfers.
Abaco island. Accessible from Marsh Harbour.
Indigo's is another quality reef break in the Abacos chain—offering both lefts and rights when NE swells arrive. The wave provides a less crowded alternative to better-known Bahamas spots, with clear water and a relaxed tropical vibe.
💙 Abacos reef option • Lefts and rights • Uncrowded Bahamas
Winter swells. Quality reef in the Abacos chain.
Willawaby is an Abaco reef break that can hold good size when winter N swells arrive. The wave offers both lefts and rights, providing options depending on conditions. Part of the Abacos surf zone that sees consistent winter swell activity.
🌊 Abacos size handler • N swell catcher • Winter power
Whale Point Cut is Eleuthera's big-wave option—a long right that only turns on when solid N swells hit the Bahamas. When it works, the wave offers extended rides through a channel cut, making the wait worthwhile. A rare Bahamas gem for those with patience.
🐋 Eleuthera's big wave • Long channel right • Worth the wait
Dropping swell. Long right on big N swells only. Worth the wait.
Long right on big N swells only. Worth the wait.
Tilloo Cut is an Abaco adventure wave—a reef break that acts as a swell magnet for E swells in an uninhabited area. Boat access is required, adding to the expedition feel. For surfers seeking true Caribbean adventure surfing.
🧭 Abaco adventure wave • Boat access only • Uninhabited perfection
Works best with swells from 90° (E). Workable range: 60°-120°.
Swell magnet on E swells. Trades in summer, uninhabited, adventure required.
Swell magnet on E swells. Trades in summer. Adventure required.
60 minutes drive from MHH airport. Requires boat access ($75/day).
Abaco. Boat access required. Adventure surf.
South Point is Barbados's SE swell magnet—the first spot on the island to catch incoming SE swells. When conditions align, a hollow left peels along the reef with speed and power. Less consistent than the east coast but worth checking when SE swells are running.
⬇️ Barbados' southern tip • SE swell magnet • Fast hollow left
First to catch SE swell. Hollow left, long and fast.
Southern tip of Barbados. SE swell magnet.
Brandon's is an east coast Barbados reef break that produces quality lefts on medium-sized swells. Located between Bathsheba and Soup Bowl, it offers a mellower alternative when the main breaks are too crowded or too big.
🌊 East coast alternative • Quality lefts • Medium swell option
Works best with swells from 140° (SE). Workable range: 90°-200°.
Offshore wind from 22° (NNE). Offshore range: 350°-70°. Best window: morning.
Winter swells. Prefers left on medium swells.
East coast Barbados. Between Bathsheba and Soup Bowl.
Tropicana is a quality west coast reef break that turns on when N swells wrap around Barbados. Less consistent than the east coast spots but offers uncrowded waves when conditions align. A good option for surfers exploring beyond Bathsheba.
🌴 West coast option • N swell dependent • Uncrowded alternative
Anse Bonneville is Martinique's most popular surf spot—a reef break with multiple peaks that hosts local contests and draws the island's surf community. The wave offers options for different skill levels and works through most conditions. The heart of Martinique surfing.
🏄 Martinique's surf hub • Multiple peaks • Contest venue
Martinique's most popular. Multiple peaks, contest venue.
Anse Charpentier offers a more authentic Martinique surf experience—less crowded than the Caravelle Peninsula spots with a stronger local vibe. The reef break produces quality waves in a beautiful setting, north of the main surf zone.
🌿 Authentic Martinique • Less crowded • Local vibe
More authentic, less crowded than Caravelle. Quality right left.
North of Tartane. More authentic local vibe.
Damencourt is Guadeloupe's most popular surf spot—a consistent reef break near Le Moule that picks up more swell than most spots on the island. The crowd can be heavy, but the wave delivers reliable surf throughout the winter season.
🏄 Guadeloupe's busiest • Most consistent • Le Moule hub
Most popular in Guadeloupe due to consistent swells.
Le Moule area. Guadeloupe's busiest break.
Port Louis is a fickle but rewarding Guadeloupe reef break—when conditions align, it produces very long waves that connect through multiple sections. Worth checking when N swells are running and trades are light.
🎲 Fickle but rewarding • Long connecting waves • N swell dependent
North Grande-Terre. Fickle but rewarding.
Petit Havre is one of Guadeloupe's best-known reef breaks—a consistent spot near Sainte-Anne on southern Grande-Terre. The wave attracts surfers from across the island and delivers reliable surf when E swells are running.
🌊 Guadeloupe's best-known reef • Southern option • Consistent E swells
Playa Grande is a powerful beach break on the DR's north coast—offering quality sandy-bottom waves that contrast with the reef breaks nearby. The shore break can be punchy and hollow, making it popular with bodyboarders and shortboarders alike.
🏖️ DR's beach break option • Powerful shorebreak • Sandy bottom
Powerful shore break. Quality sandy bottom.
La Izquierda is the quality left at the Encuentro complex—a fast, fun wave that offers an alternative to the crowded rights. When N swells push in, this left can deliver consistent barrels for those who know where to sit.
⬅️ Encuentro's left • Fast fun waves • Alternative to the rights
Bobo's is a consistent, fun reef break in the Cabarete area—offering beginner to intermediate waves when the main spots are too crowded or intense. A good introduction to DR surfing.
🤙 Cabarete's fun option • Consistent waves • Beginner-friendly
Cabarete area. Beginner-friendly option.
Wizard Beach is a fun, all-around beach break on Isla Bastimentos in Bocas del Toro. Accessible by boat from town, it offers mellow waves suitable for all levels in a tropical paradise setting. A great option when the reef breaks are too intense.
🧙 Bocas beach magic • Fun for all levels • Boat access paradise
30 minutes drive from BOC airport. Requires boat access ($15/day).
Isla Bastimentos. Boat access from Bocas town.
Tiger Tails is a quality reef break near Paunch on Isla Colón—offering an alternative when the main breaks are crowded. The wave delivers consistent surf with a mellow vibe and beautiful Bocas scenery.
🐯 Bocas reef alternative • Near Paunch • Mellow vibe
Boston Bay is Jamaica's most popular surf spot—a reef break in Portland parish that offers both gentle waves for learners and hollow sections for more experienced surfers. The nearby jerk centers add to the authentic Jamaican experience.
🇯🇲 Jamaica's surf hub • Jerk chicken capital • All levels welcome
Jamaica's most popular. Gentle waves, hollow tubes before long ride.
Long Bay - Outback is a more powerful option near Boston Bay—delivering hollow tubes and long rides when swells are running. Less crowded than the main spot, it rewards those willing to explore Jamaica's northeast coast.
🌴 Beyond Boston Bay • Hollow tubes • Less crowded power
Powerful, beachy waves. Hollow tubes before long ride.
Lighthouse is a consistent reef break near Kingston—offering accessible city surf when swells are running. The classic reef setup delivers 3-6ft waves with reef sharks occasionally cruising through but posing no threat. A good option for surfers based in Jamaica's capital.
🏙️ Kingston's city surf • Consistent reef • Reef shark neighbors
Consistent 3-6ft. Classic reef. Reef shark present but friendly.
Consistent 3-6ft. Classic reef. Reef sharks present but friendly.
Josiah's Bay is the BVI's best learn-to-surf spot—a beach break on Tortola's east coast that produces fun A-frame peaks suitable for beginners and intermediates. When winter swells arrive, this is where the BVI surf community gathers.
🏄‍♂️ BVI's learn-to-surf spot • Fun A-frames • Beginner paradise
Best learn-to-surf spot in BVI. Fun A-frames.
Tortola east coast. BVI's learn-to-surf spot.
Brewer's Bay is a more powerful option on Tortola's north coast—delivering challenging conditions with sharp reef and strong currents. For experienced surfers looking for more intensity than Josiah's Bay offers.
💪 BVI's power option • Sharp reef • Experienced surfers
Powerful, challenging. Sharp reef, strong currents.
Tortola north coast. More powerful than Josiah's.
Salibia is Trinidad's national surf hub—host of the national championships and the island's most consistent wave. The beach break delivers reliable surf throughout winter, drawing the local community and visiting surfers alike.
🏆 Trinidad's contest venue • Most consistent • National surf hub
National championship site. Most consistent in Trinidad.
Las Cuevas is a scenic beach break on Trinidad's north coast—producing nice A-frame peaks with potential for long rides. The wave is most reliable in fall hurricane season but also picks up winter swells. A beautiful setting with palm-fringed beach.
🏝️ Trinidad's scenic break • A-frame peaks • North coast beauty
Nice A-frames, long rides. Most reliable in fall.
Sans Souci is a beach break near the village known for its population of wild monkeys. The waves are consistent and the vibe is uniquely Trinidadian. Good vibes, good waves, and wildlife encounters guaranteed.
🐒 Monkey village surf • Good vibes • Northeast Trinidad
Village full of wild apes. Good vibes, good waves.
Swallows is Tobago's alternative when Mount Irvine is closing out—a reef break that handles bigger swells with more order. Less crowded than the main spot, it offers a mellower option for experienced surfers.
🌊 Tobago's big-swell option • Mount Irvine overflow • Handles size
Alternative when Mount Irvine closing out.
La Setenta (The Seventy) is Havana's premier reef break—named for its location near 70th Street and the old Russian Embassy. The wave handles solid size and produces quality barrels over sharp reef. Cuban surfing's urban gem.
🇨🇺 Havana's reef break • Near 70th Street • Urban Cuban surf
Handles size to 8ft. Near Russian Embassy. Sharp reef.
Havana. Near 70th Street (hence the name).
Calle 70 is Havana's main urban surf spot—a quirky reef break that comes alive when N swells hit Cuba's north coast. The local crew has limited equipment but unlimited stoke, making this one of the world's most unique surf scenes.
🏛️ Havana's urban wave • Cuban surf culture • Limited gear, unlimited stoke
Offshore wind from 180° (S). Offshore range: 150°-210°. Best window: both.
Havana's main urban. Quirky, needs 8ft to work. Rare Cuban barrel.
Gibara is a beach break on Cuba's remote north coast near Holguín—offering consistent waves without needing huge swells to work. The uncrowded lineups and authentic Cuban experience make this worth the journey east from Havana.
🌅 Remote Cuban beach break • Consistent • Eastern exploration
Rarely needs 8ft to work. Rare Cuban barrel.
Playa Mar Verde is Cuba's south coast surf option—a beach break near Santiago that picks up SE swells during hurricane season. While less consistent than the north coast, it offers uncrowded waves in Cuba's second city.
🌀 Cuba's south coast • Hurricane swell option • Santiago surf
South coast option during hurricane swells.
VVF (Anse L'Etang) is Martinique's longboard paradise—a long, mellow right that's ideal for progression and stylish cruising. The wave is perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers looking to work on technique.
🏄‍♀️ Martinique's longboard wave • Mellow right • Perfect for progression
Long right, ideal for longboards and progression.
Bananler is a rare Basse-Terre surf spot—a black sand beach break that catches SE swells on Guadeloupe's volcanic island. The mellow vibe and unique volcanic setting make this worth exploring when conditions align.
🌋 Black sand beach break • Basse-Terre gem • Volcanic vibes
Rare, Bass ferrai, sandy must busy. Black sand, multy bus.
Rare basis ferrai spot. Black sand, multy bus.
Macao is the most accessible surf spot for Punta Cana resort guests—a beach break that can produce hollow waves on good days. The wave attracts both tourists and locals, offering a taste of DR surfing without the long drive to Cabarete.
🏖️ Punta Cana surf • Resort-accessible • Hollow beach break
Works best with swells from 90° (E). Workable range: 60°-105°.
Accessible from Punta Cana resorts. Hollow on good days.
Punta Roca is Colombia's Caribbean quality point break—a right-hander near Barranquilla that delivers long rides when N swells hit the coast. The Colombian surf scene is growing, and this is one of its premier waves.
🇨🇴 Colombian Caribbean point • Quality right • Growing surf scene
Colombia Caribbean's quality point break.
Palomino is a scenic beach break where the Sierra Nevada mountains meet the Caribbean Sea—one of the most beautiful surf settings in the Americas. The wave is consistent and the vibe is pure Colombian Caribbean.
🏔️ Sierra Nevada meets sea • Stunning scenery • Colombian paradise
Beautiful setting between Sierra Nevada and sea.
Los Naranjos is a beach break inside Tayrona National Park—one of Colombia's most stunning natural areas. The surf requires a hike or boat to access, but the reward is uncrowded waves in a pristine jungle-meets-beach setting.
🌿 Tayrona National Park • Jungle beach break • Pristine setting
Tayrona National Park. Hike or boat access.
Mendihuaca is home to several surf camps near Santa Marta—a consistent beach break that draws surfers looking to learn or improve in a tropical setting. The vibe is mellow and the waves are forgiving.
🏕️ Surf camp central • Consistent beach break • Santa Marta zone
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 335°-30°.
Home of Americas Surf Camp. Consistent waves.
Egg Island is a remote Bahamas surf adventure—accessible only by boat from Eleuthera. The uncrowded beach break rewards those who make the journey with pristine waves and true desert island vibes.
🥚 Desert island surf • Boat access only • Bahamas adventure
240 minutes drive from NAS airport. Requires boat access ($100/day).
Cow Wreck Beach on Anegada is the BVI's most remote surf option—requiring a boat or small plane to reach. Named for the bones of cows that washed ashore from shipwrecks, this beach break offers uncrowded waves in a pristine setting.
🐄 Anegada remote break • Uncrowded • True BVI escape
Unknown minutes drive from EIS airport. Requires boat access ($100/day).
Anegada island. Boat or small plane access.
Hull Bay is the US Virgin Islands' premier surf spot—a reef break on St Thomas's north shore that picks up N swells and produces quality waves for the small but dedicated local community. The setting is beautiful and the vibe is mellow.
🇻🇮 USVI's best wave • North shore reef • Beautiful setting
North shore St Thomas. USVI's main spot.
Cinnamon Bay is a beautiful beach break inside Virgin Islands National Park on St John. The mellow waves are perfect for beginners, and the stunning park setting makes it a complete tropical surf experience.
🏝️ National park surf • Beginner-friendly • St John beauty
40 minutes drive from STT airport. Requires boat access ($20/day).
Orient Bay is St Martin's most popular surf spot—a beach break on the French side that picks up NE swells and draws the island's surf community. The wave is consistent and the scene is social.
🇫🇷 St Martin's main break • French side surf • Consistent beach
Galion Bay is a more protected surf option on St Martin's French side—offering mellow waves when Orient Bay is too big or blown out. Great for beginners and intermediates.
🌴 St Martin's mellow option • Protected bay • Beginner-friendly
French side. More protected than Orient.
Cas en Bas is St Lucia's main surf beach—a consistent beach break on the northeast coast that draws the island's small surf community. With the iconic Pitons visible in the distance, the setting is pure Caribbean magic.
🏔️ St Lucia's surf hub • Pitons backdrop • Caribbean magic
Villa Beach is St Vincent's accessible surf option—a beach break near Kingstown that offers consistent waves for the small local surf community. A gateway to exploring the Grenadines surf potential.
🌊 St Vincent surf • Near Kingstown • Grenadines gateway
Near Kingstown. St Vincent's accessible option.
Palmetto Point on Barbuda is a remote surf adventure—requiring a boat or small plane from Antigua to reach this pristine beach break. The uncrowded waves and deserted pink sand beaches make the journey worthwhile.
🏝️ Remote Barbuda • Pink sand perfection • True adventure
Unknown minutes drive from ANU airport. Requires boat access ($80/day).
Half Moon Bay is Antigua's premier surf beach—a crescent-shaped bay on the southeast coast that picks up NE swells. The picturesque setting and consistent waves make it the island's go-to surf spot.
🌙 Antigua's surf beach • Crescent bay beauty • Atlantic swells
Works best with swells from 45° (NE). Workable range: 30°-80°.
Boca Grandi is Aruba's main surf spot—a beach break on the windswept southeast coast that picks up Atlantic swells. Known more for windsurfing and kitesurfing, but consistent waves attract a dedicated surf crew.
🌬️ Aruba's surf spot • Windswept beauty • Atlantic facing
Works best with swells from 100° (E). Workable range: 60°-140°.
Playa Kanoa is Curacao's main surf beach—located on the windward east coast where Atlantic swells wrap around the island. The Dutch Caribbean's most consistent surf option.
🇳🇱 Dutch Caribbean surf • Atlantic facing • Curacao's wave
Long Caye on Lighthouse Reef is Belize's remote surf adventure—a reef break in the same atoll as the famous Blue Hole. Reaching it requires a long boat ride, but the uncrowded waves and diving potential make it a unique double-threat destination.
🕳️ Blue Hole atoll surf • Remote reef • Adventure destination
Unknown minutes drive from BZE airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
West Bay on Roatan is the Bay Islands' surf option—a reef break on Honduras's famous dive destination island. When N swells arrive, surfers share the reef with divers exploring the world-class coral below.
🤿 Dive island surf • Bay Islands reef • Honduras option
The Corn Islands are Nicaragua's Caribbean surf outpost—remote islands off the Mosquito Coast with reef breaks that see few surfers. A flight from Managua opens up an entirely different Nicaragua surf experience.
🌴 Nicaragua's Caribbean • Remote reef breaks • Mosquito Coast
Unknown minutes drive from BEF airport. Requires boat access ($50/day).
Caribbean Nicaragua. Flight from Managua.
Bathway Beach is Grenada's main surf spot—a beach break on the island's northeast tip that picks up Atlantic swells. The Spice Island's small surf community gathers here when conditions align.
🌿 Spice Island surf • Grenada's beach break • Atlantic facing
Dieppe Bay is St Kitts' surf option—a black sand beach on the island's north coast that picks up N swells. The volcanic sand and historic setting make it a unique Caribbean surf experience.
🌋 Black sand surf • St Kitts north • Volcanic beauty
Scotts Head is Dominica's surf spot—a reef break at the southern tip of the "Nature Island" where the Caribbean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. The dramatic volcanic setting and uncrowded waves make this a unique Caribbean surf experience.
🌴 Nature Island surf • Where oceans meet • Volcanic drama
East End is Grand Cayman's surf spot—a reef break on the exposed eastern tip of the island that picks up Atlantic swells. The famous dive destination has a small but dedicated surf scene for when conditions align.
🦈 Cayman surf spot • Dive island waves • Atlantic exposure
East end Grand Cayman. Atlantic exposure.
La Bocaina is a world-class left reef break tucked inside the bay at Patanemo on Venezuela's central coast. When clean N-NE swells funnel into the bay, the wave peels for 150 to 300 metres over shallow coral, producing hollow barrels that rival anything in the Caribbean. The palm-fringed bay and laid-back fishing village setting make it a hidden gem.
🔥 Venezuela's best left • Hollow coral reef • 300m rides
Winter N-NE swells from November through April. Hurricane swells in September-October.
Shallow coral reef. Booties recommended. Watch for urchins on entry.
Drive from Valencia via Puerto Cabello. Located in Patanemo Bay.
Punto La Gillette is the gnarliest wave in Venezuela—a shallow coral slab in the remote Los Roques archipelago that produces fast, thick right barrels when solid north swells slam into the outer reef. The turquoise water and white-sand cays create a paradise setting, but make no mistake: this wave is heavy, shallow, and unforgiving. Boat access only adds to the adventure.
⚡ Venezuela's gnarliest wave • Shallow coral slab • Los Roques expedition
Needs solid N swell to break. Best in winter with cold fronts pushing through.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote
Extremely shallow coral slab. Fast, thick barrels with serious consequences. Boat access only.
Unknown minutes drive from LRV airport. Requires boat access ($80/day).
Fly CCS to LRV (Gran Roque), then boat to the break. Charter required.
Choroni's El Malecon is a hollow right-hand point break that peels along the rocks at the edge of one of Venezuela's most charming colonial villages. Nestled inside Henri Pittier National Park, the drive in through cloud forest is half the adventure. When N-NE swells arrive, the wave delivers powerful, workable walls with barrel sections over flat rock bottom.
🌊 Colonial village point • Henri Pittier NP • Hollow right walls
Works best with swells from 15° (NNE). Workable range: 345°-55°.
Winter N-NE swells. Hurricane season can deliver big swells September-October.
Rocky point break. Watch for currents near the point on bigger days.
Winding mountain road through Henri Pittier NP from Maracay. Stunning drive.
Cuyagua is Venezuela's premier beach break—a dark-sand cove backed by the jungle-covered mountains of Henri Pittier National Park. The west end produces a fast, tubular left that barrels along a reef-sand bottom, while multiple peaks stretch along the bay. The Afro-Venezuelan village adds deep cultural flavour to what is already one of the most scenic surf settings in the Caribbean.
🏝️ Venezuela's best beachbreak • Fast tubular lefts • Jungle-backed cove
Winter N-NE swells. Best beachbreak in Venezuela at west end of beach.
Strong rips on bigger days. The left at the west end breaks near rocks.
Winding mountain road through Henri Pittier NP. Near Choroni.
Patanemo Point is the coral reef setup on the other side of Patanemo Bay from La Bocaina. When conditions align perfectly—clean N-NE swell, light winds, right tide—it produces world-class waves over living coral that local surfers swear could be the best wave you've ever ridden. The bay's sheltered position means it needs more swell than exposed breaks, but when it turns on, it's magic.
👑 Hidden world-class coral • Patanemo Bay gem • When it's on, it's on
Same swell window as La Bocaina. Slightly more forgiving than the main reef.
Shallow coral reef. Booties recommended.
Same access as La Bocaina. Patanemo Bay.
Los Caracas is a powerful reef break just east of Caracas on the Vargas coast, producing quality lefts and rights over flat rock bottom. Its proximity to the capital makes it one of Venezuela's most surfed spots—packed on weekends but rewarding on weekday swells. Multiple peaks mean you can usually find a less crowded section when it's firing.
🌊 Caracas's power reef • Multiple peaks • Weekend warrior favourite
Winter N-NE swells. Easy access from Caracas makes it popular on weekends.
Reef over flat rocks. Multiple peaks. Can get powerful.
Short drive east along the Litoral from Caracas airport.
Casa Verde is a coral reef break in the Los Roques archipelago that comes alive when bigger north swells push through. While other spots in the chain break on moderate swell, Casa Verde needs solid size to show its best—but when it does, the crystal-clear turquoise water and remote atoll setting make it unforgettable.
🏝️ Big-swell Los Roques reef • Turquoise barrels • Remote atoll
Works best with swells from 10° (N). Workable range: 330°-50°.
Needs bigger N swell than other Los Roques spots. Best on solid winter swells.
Coral reef in remote archipelago. Boat access required.
Unknown minutes drive from LRV airport. Requires boat access ($60/day).
Los Roques boat access; pin is island/reef-zone level and should be locally verified before marking exact.
The Point is the most consistent surf spot in the Los Roques archipelago, picking up swell that other breaks in the chain miss. A coral reef setup that works through all tides and on smaller swells, it's the go-to wave for visiting surfers who make the flight from Caracas. The setting—crystalline Caribbean water over pristine coral—is hard to beat anywhere.
🌊 Los Roques' most consistent • All-tide coral reef • Caribbean perfection
Works best with swells from 10° (N). Workable range: 340°-50°.
Most consistent wave in Los Roques. Works on smaller swells than other spots.
Coral reef. Remote but more forgiving than La Gillette.
Unknown minutes drive from LRV airport. Requires boat access ($50/day).
Los Roques boat access; coordinate offset separates the named point from Casa Verde but remains approximate.
Playa Parguito is Margarita Island's premier surf spot—a consistent beach break on the exposed northeast coast that picks up trade swells year-round. The sandy bottom and multiple peaks make it accessible for all levels, while bigger winter swells produce punchy, powerful waves. The spot hosted the Pan American Games surf event, cementing its reputation as Venezuela's most contest-ready beach break.
🏆 Margarita's best break • Pan Am venue • Year-round trade swell
Works best with swells from 45° (NE). Workable range: 10°-80°.
Year-round NE trade swell. Best in winter but rarely flat. Hosted 2001 Pan Am surf event.
Strong rips on bigger days. Gets crowded as the best spot on the island.
North coast of Margarita. 30 min from Porlamar airport. Good access.
Guacuco is a fast, fun beach break on Margarita Island's northeast coast, just around the headland from Parguito. The exposed position means it picks up anything the Atlantic sends and has been known to handle hurricane swell. Less crowded than its neighbour, it offers a solid alternative with consistent, punchy waves.
🌊 Margarita's fun alternative • Handles hurricane swell • Fast beach peaks
Works best with swells from 55° (NE). Workable range: 20°-90°.
Offshore wind from 245° (WSW). Offshore range: 210°-280°. Best window: morning.
Year-round NE trade swell. Can hold hurricane swell.
Standard beach break rips on bigger swells.
Northeast coast Margarita. Near Parguito.
Pui Pui is a remote stretch of crystal-clear beach on Venezuela's Paria coast offering 13 to 15 separate surfable peaks. The exposed position picks up E-NE trade swell year-round, and the lack of crowds means you can surf peak after peak in warm, transparent water. The rough road in keeps the masses away, preserving one of Venezuela's most magical surf zones.
🏝️ 15 uncrowded peaks • Crystal clear water • Remote Paria paradise
Exposed to E-NE trade swell year-round. Best in winter months.
Remote location. Long drive on rough roads. Crystal-clear water.
Rough road east from Carupano. 4WD recommended. Remote but worth it.
Chaguarama de Sotillo sits on the wild Paria Peninsula—Venezuela's easternmost surf frontier. The reef and sand mix bottom produces quality waves on the constant E-NE trade swell, and the remoteness means you'll often surf alone. The surrounding cacao farms, hot springs, and thick jungle make this one of the most adventurous surf destinations in the Caribbean.
🌴 Paria Peninsula frontier • Cacao country surf • Wild and uncrowded
Year-round E-NE trade swell on the exposed Paria Peninsula.
Reef/sand mix bottom. Remote location on Paria Peninsula.
East of Carupano on the Paria Peninsula. 4WD recommended.
Chirere is a fun beach break east of Caracas near Higuerote, far enough from the capital to avoid the weekend crowds. The north-facing position catches winter swells cleanly, and the sandy bottom makes it forgiving for all levels. A mellow vibe and warm water complete the picture.
🌊 East of Caracas escape • Mellow beach break • Uncrowded fun
North-facing coast east of Caracas. Best on rising or falling tide.
East of Caracas via Higuerote. Roughly 2 hours drive.
Puerto Azul is an unusual Venezuelan surf spot that faces southwest, picking up swell from a completely different direction than the country's typical N-NE facing breaks. When the trade swell spots are flat, Puerto Azul can have waves—making it a handy alternative for Caracas surfers. The sandy bottom and gentle waves suit beginners and longboarders.
🌊 SW swell alternative • Sandy mellow waves • When NE is flat
SW swell window—unusual for Venezuela. Works when trade swell spots are flat.
Very close to CCS airport on the Vargas coast.
Anse de Remire is an exposed beach break in the Remire-Montjoly suburb of Cayenne, making it the most accessible surf spot in French Guiana. When NE swells run along the coast, the sandy bottom produces localized peaks that offer a taste of surf in a country where riding waves is still a novelty. The nearby restaurants and infrastructure make it an easy session.
🌊 Cayenne's accessible break • Exposed beach peaks • French Guiana starter
NE swell season. Exposed beach near Cayenne.
Exposed beach break. Localized conditions.
Remire-Montjoly suburb of Cayenne. Easy access.
Playa Chinchorro is the main surf beach in Arica, Chile's northernmost coastal city. This west-facing beach break offers consistent waves year-round.
🏜️ Desert beach break • Consistent waves • Northern Chile gateway
Year-round surf. Best swells autumn through spring.
Strong currents on bigger days. Desert climate.
Main beach in Arica. Easy access from town.
La Lisera is a quality right-hand reef break south of Arica. When solid SW swells hit, long walling rights peel along the rock reef.
🪨 Arica reef right • Needs solid swell • Desert perfection
Needs solid SW swell. Winter/spring best.
Shallow reef. Sea urchins. Booties recommended.
Cavancha is Iquique's main urban beach. Beginner-friendly beach break with consistent waves year-round.
🏖️ Iquique city beach • Beginner-friendly • Consistent
Huayquique is a quality left-hand point break south of Iquique. 100+ meter rides possible on good days.
🌊 Northern Chile point • Long lefts • Desert backdrop
Best with solid winter/spring SW swells.
South of Iquique. Drive down coast road.
Playa Brava is Antofagasta's primary surf beach in Chile's mining region.
🏙️ Mining city surf • Desert coast • Consistent beach break
Year-round waves. Best autumn to spring.
Urban beach. Some water quality concerns.
Central Antofagasta. Beach access from Avenida.
La Portada is a quality reef break near the famous natural arch rock formation.
🪨 Arch landmark reef • Powerful rights • Remote
Needs solid swell. Best autumn to spring.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🪨 Rocks, 🚶 Difficult access
Pan de Azucar offers uncrowded waves in one of Chile's most beautiful national parks.
🏜️ National park waves • Complete solitude • Desert wilderness
Very remote national park. Limited services.
Pan de Azucar National Park. Camping available.
Totoralillo is a quality right-hand point break in a charming fishing village near La Serena.
🎣 Fishing village point • Workable rights • Chilean classic
Punta de Choros is a remote left-hand point break near the Humboldt penguin reserve.
🐧 Penguin reserve point • Remote adventure • Wildlife
Los Vilos is a well-known right-hand point break at a small fishing port on the Panamericana.
🚗 Highway stop point • Consistent rights • Fresh seafood
Maitencillo is a popular beach resort and surf destination within easy reach of Santiago.
🏖️ Santiago escape • Beginner-friendly • Beach resort vibes
Works best with swells from 230° (SW). Workable range: 215°-270°.
Popular resort beach. Crowded in summer.
Popular beach resort north of Valparaiso.
Ritoque is a long, exposed beach break with multiple peaks and more space than busier breaks.
🌊 Long beach break • Multiple peaks • Room to spread out
Works best with swells from 235° (SW). Workable range: 205°-275°.
Offshore wind from 95° (E). Offshore range: 55°-135°. Best window: morning.
Consistent year-round. Best autumn-spring.
Long beach with strong rips on bigger swells.
Renaca is Vina del Mar's most popular surf beach.
🏙️ Vina del Mar classic • Consistent waves • Crowded summers
Works best with swells from 240° (WSW). Workable range: 225°-280°.
Punta Pite is a quality left-hand reef break in the exclusive Zapallar area.
💎 Exclusive reef left • Hollow barrels • Upscale setting
Sharp reef. Exclusive area, respect locals.
La Boca is a well-known left-hand reef break at the river mouth in Concon.
🏄 Concon classic • River mouth reef • Quality lefts
Matanzas is Chile's premier kitesurfing spot. Surfers: mornings only.
🪁 Kite capital • Morning surf only • Quality point left
Famous for strong afternoon winds. Morning surf.
Famous kitesurfing spot. Mornings for surfing.
La Puntilla is the main surf break in Pichilemu town.
🌴 Pichilemu heart • Consistent point • Surf town vibes
Year-round surf. More consistent than Lobos.
Infiernillo ("Little Hell") is one of Chile's heaviest waves.
🔥 Little Hell • Heavy Chilean slab • Experts only
Works best with swells from 215° (SW). Workable range: 185°-250°.
Between Puntilla and Lobos. Cliff access.
Constitucion marks the transition into southern Chile's coastline.
🌊 River mouth break • Southern gateway • Off the beaten path
Year-round surf. Colder water than north.
Cobquecura offers quality waves near a famous sea lion colony.
🦭 Sea lion point • Scenic lefts • Wild Chile coast
Best with winter swells. Scenic location.
Buchupureo is a quality right-hand point in an authentic fishing village.
🎣 Fishing village right • Long peeling waves • Authentic Chile
Lebu is a rugged beach break in the former coal mining region.
⛏️ Coal coast power • Raw beach break • Frontier surfing
Works best with swells from 235° (SW). Workable range: 220°-280°.
Consistent year-round. Cold and powerful.
Puerto Saavedra sits at the Imperial River mouth in Mapuche territory.
🌿 Mapuche coast • River mouth waves • Cultural respect
Works best with swells from 240° (WSW). Workable range: 210°-285°.
River mouth currents. Mapuche territory.
Imperial River mouth. Mapuche territory.
Curanipe is a quality left-hand point in a sleepy coastal town.
🏘️ Sleepy town point • Workable lefts • Traditional Chile
Mehuin is a quality left-hand point at a fishing village near Valdivia.
🐟 Fishing village point • Cold water lefts • Fresh seafood
Works best with swells from 235° (SW). Workable range: 205°-280°.
El Buey ("The Bull") is a tow-in big wave reef near El Gringo that comes alive when massive SW swells hit Arica. The wave can produce 40-foot faces, making it one of South America's premier big wave venues.
Tow-in big wave. Jet ski support required. Extreme.
Near El Gringo. Tow-in only on big days.
La Brava is Arica's powerful beach-break counterpoint to El Gringo, a heavy right-hand barrel that unloads close to shore when south swell hits the exposed sand. The wave is fast, punchy, and less forgiving than the simple beach label suggests, with strong rips and shifting banks that demand local knowledge. It should not share El Gringo's reef pin or left-breaking metadata.
Arica beach barrel | Heavy right | Pin needs local verification
Solid left reef. Less intense than El Gringo.
El Laucho is a beginner-friendly beach and reef break south of Arica center, offering mellow waves as an alternative to the heavy slabs nearby. A good warm-up spot before tackling more challenging breaks.
🏖️ Arica mellow option • Beginner-friendly • Warm-up spot
Ideal size: 1.4m. Too small below 0.9m, too big (closeout) above 1.8m.
Las Machas ("The Razor Clams") is a mellow beach break named for the shellfish found on its shores. A beginner-friendly option in the Arica area with consistent, forgiving waves.
🐚 Razor clam beach • Beginner waves • Consistent
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 210°-250°.
Arenillas Negras ("Black Sands") is a reef break on a distinctive dark volcanic sand beach in Arica. The wave offers quality walls without the intensity of nearby El Gringo.
🖤 Black sand reef • Quality walls • Less intense
El Brazo ("The Arm") is a reef and sand hybrid break in the Arica surf zone, offering both lefts and rights depending on sandbar configuration. A versatile option with varied conditions.
💪 The Arm • Reef/sand hybrid • Versatile waves
El Colegio ("The School") is the heaviest wave in the Iquique slab complex - a thick left that breaks over a shallow reef. The name is ironic, as this wave provides harsh lessons for those unprepared.
🎓 The School • Harsh lessons • Iquique heaviest
Offshore wind from 67° (ENE). Offshore range: 45°-90°. Best window: morning.
Intendencia is a wedging slab in the Iquique heavy wave zone, producing thick, hollow lefts when SW swells wrap into the bay. A step up from beginner waves but not quite as heavy as El Colegio.
🌊 Wedging slab • Thick barrels • Iquique power
Punta Dos ("Point Two") is another heavy slab in the Iquique complex, delivering thick barrels over a shallow reef. Part of the world-class concentration of slabs in this northern Chile city.
✌️ Point Two • Iquique slab • Heavy barrels
Ideal size: 2.7m. Too small below 1.8m, too big (closeout) above 3.6m.
Hueso de Ballena ("Whale Bone") is a left reef break in Iquique named for whale bones found on the shore. A quality wave that offers a less intense option compared to the heavy slabs nearby.
🐋 Whale Bone reef • Quality left • Less intense
Diamante is a beginner-friendly beach break near Punta de Lobos, offering a mellow option when the famous point is too powerful or crowded. A good warm-up spot for the Pichilemu area.
💎 Diamond beach • Beginner-friendly • Near Lobos
Offshore wind from 135° (SE). Offshore range: 110°-160°. Best window: morning.
Puertecillo is a quality left point break north of Pichilemu, offering long rides when WSW swells wrap into the bay. A less crowded alternative to the famous breaks further south.
🌊 Long left point • North of Pichilemu • Less crowded
Offshore wind from 112° (ESE). Offshore range: 90°-135°. Best window: morning.
Topocalma is a left point break between Puertecillo and Pichilemu, offering quality waves in a quiet coastal village setting. A good stop on the central Chile surf route.
🏘️ Quiet village point • Central Chile • Quality left
Pupuya is a consistent beach break north of Topocalma, offering fun waves in a scenic setting. A good intermediate option on the O'Higgins coastline.
🏖️ Consistent beach • O'Higgins coast • Fun waves
Matanzas La Boca is a right point break at the famous kitesurfing town. Unlike the left point (Matanzas), this right works at low tide but requires early morning sessions before the notorious afternoon winds blow in.
🌅 Morning right • Low tide • Before the wind
Offshore wind from 90° (E). Offshore range: 70°-110°. Best window: morning.
Morning only. Afternoon winds destroy it.
Strong afternoon winds. Morning sessions only.
Famous for afternoon wind. Mornings only.
Roca Cuadrada ("Square Rock") is a big wave left reef near Matanzas that comes alive on massive SW swells. Named for a distinctive square-shaped rock, the wave can produce 30-foot faces for tow-in chargers.
🪨 Square Rock • Big wave left • 30ft+ potential
Ideal size: 6.8m. Too small below 4.5m, too big (closeout) above 9m.
Big wave reef. Jet ski support recommended.
El Muro ("The Wall") is a right reef section at Totoralillo, offering powerful walls when solid SW swells hit. Part of the quality wave complex at this fishing village.
🧱 The Wall • Powerful rights • Totoralillo section
El Pipe is the hollow left section at Totoralillo, nicknamed after Pipeline for its barrel potential. When SSW swells hit, this section produces the best tubes in the complex.
🛢️ Totoralillo Pipeline • Hollow lefts • Barrel section
Carelmapu is a frontier beach break near the ferry crossing to Chiloe Island, one of the southernmost accessible surf spots in Chile. Cold water, powerful waves, and stunning Patagonian scenery await the adventurous.
🥶 Southern frontier • Near Chiloe • Cold adventure
La Cupula is Antofagasta's signature bodyboarding slab, a left breaking over shallow rock in Chile's dry northern coast. It has hosted international bodyboarding events because the wave can deliver thick, technical barrels when south-southwest swell and clean wind line up. The setup is close to the city but still serious, with reef, rocks, and heavy sections making it best for confident riders.
Antofagasta slab | Bodyboard event wave | Shallow left reef
Tongo Reef is the crown jewel of Galapagos surfing - a world-class left reef break on San Cristobal Island that hosted the 2022 WSL QS 1000. The wave offers three distinct sections catering to all levels, from the mellow Bajo to the hollow Pico. Surf with sea lions in one of the planet's most unique wildlife sanctuaries.
🦭 WSL contest venue • Three-section reef • Surf with sea lions
Best April-November. Hosted 2022 WSL QS 1000.
Sea lions in lineup. Rocky reef. Boat access recommended.
Boat taxi $10 return or 20min dirt road walk.
Punta Carola is San Cristobal's most accessible wave, a right point break just minutes from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. The wave picks up NW swells that wrap around the island during the wet season. Share the lineup with curious sea lions from the nearby colony.
🌊 Town wave • Right point • Sea lion colony
Ideal size: 1.8m. Too small below 0.9m, too big (closeout) above 2.7m.
Rocky entry. Sea lions frequent the lineup.
Walking distance from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
La Loberia takes its name from the large sea lion colony that calls this beach home. The left reef break offers quality waves with a unique Galapagos backdrop - marine iguanas, sea lions, and blue-footed boobies are all regular sightings between sets.
🦭 Sea lion beach • Quality reef left • Wildlife paradise
El Canon is a right-hand reef break on San Cristobal's north side that lights up when NW swells wrap around the island. Less crowded than Tongo, it offers fun walls and occasional barrels for intermediate to advanced surfers.
🌊 North shore right • NW swell window • Less crowded option
Tortuga Bay is a stunning white sand beach accessible via a 45-minute walk from Puerto Ayora. The beach break offers consistent waves in a postcard-perfect setting, with marine iguanas sunbathing on the sand between sessions.
🐢 White sand paradise • Marine iguanas • National park setting
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 165°-210°.
Best with S swells. Beach closes at 5pm.
Strong currents. Marine iguanas on beach.
45min walk from Puerto Ayora. Closes at 5pm.
Seymour Norte is a remote right-hand reef break off the north coast of Santa Cruz, accessible only by boat. The wave picks up NW swells and offers uncrowded, quality surf for those willing to make the journey.
🚤 Boat access only • Remote reef right • True adventure
Unknown minutes drive from GPS airport. Requires boat access ($150/day).
Boat charter required. Remote island location.
Punta Negra is a right-hand reef break located near the famous Tortuga Bay on Santa Cruz Island. The wave works best at lower tides with S swells, offering hollow sections over the volcanic reef.
🌋 Volcanic reef right • Lower tides • Near Tortuga Bay
Mompiche is one of Ecuador's premier waves - a long, tubular left point that peels for 300+ meters on good days. Set in a lush jungle village, the wave fires during the December-April NW swell season, producing powerful, hollow walls that draw traveling surfers from around the world.
🌴 Ecuador premier left • Long tubular rides • Jungle paradise
Works best with swells from 292° (WNW). Workable range: 270°-330°.
Best December-April with NW swells. Also works with SW.
Rocky point. Strong currents on bigger swells.
2hr drive from Esmeraldas. Jungle village setting.
Portete Island sits just offshore from Mompiche, offering an alternative when the main point is too crowded. The reef break produces both lefts and rights over the coral bottom, with easy boat access from the main beach.
🏝️ Island reef break • Boat access • Alternative to Mompiche
120 minutes drive from ESM airport. Requires boat access ($15/day).
Playa Negra is the mellow beach break in Mompiche town, perfect for beginners or when the main point is too powerful. The dark sand beach offers consistent, forgiving waves with an easy paddle out.
🏖️ Beginner beach • Mompiche mellow option • Dark sand
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 235°-315°.
Casa Blanca is a quiet beach break north of Mompiche, offering uncrowded waves for those seeking solitude. The consistent beach break works on both SW and NW swells, with warm water year-round.
🏖️ Quiet beach • Uncrowded peaks • Northern Esmeraldas
Mild conditions. Watch currents on bigger days.
Canoa is a long, beautiful beach break in a laid-back backpacker town. The 17km stretch of sand offers multiple peaks to spread out, with consistent NW swells during the wet season and a chilled-out surf village atmosphere.
🎒 Backpacker haven • Long beach • Consistent peaks
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 290°-330°.
San Mateo is a quality left point break near Manta that comes alive during NW swell events. The wave wraps around a rocky point in a traditional fishing village, offering long walls and occasional barrels.
🎣 Fishing village left • Long walls • Near Manta
Works best with swells from 337° (NNW). Workable range: 315°-360°.
La Bellaca is a versatile left point break that works with both NW and SW swells, making it one of the more consistent spots on the Manabi coast. The wave offers long, workable walls with good power.
🌊 Versatile left • Works both swells • Consistent option
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 225°-315°.
Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Rio Chico is a left point break at a river mouth south of Manta. The wave lights up with S-SW swells during the dry season, offering quality walls with fewer crowds than the more famous breaks.
🌊 River mouth left • S-SW swells • Quiet option
Near Puerto Lopez. River mouth location.
Puerto Cayo is a mellow right point break in a small fishing port. The wave offers fun, workable walls for intermediate surfers during NW swell events, with a quiet village atmosphere.
🎣 Fishing port right • Mellow waves • Quiet village
Las Tunas is a quiet beach break near the popular Ayampe area, offering uncrowded waves for those seeking solitude. The consistent beach break works with multiple swell directions year-round.
🏖️ Quiet alternative • Near Ayampe • Year-round waves
Works year-round with both swell directions.
Ayampe is an eco-village beach break popular with the yoga and wellness crowd. The consistent waves are perfect for beginners and longboarders, with numerous eco-lodges and healthy eating options in the village.
🧘 Eco-village waves • Yoga retreat scene • Beginner-friendly
Montanita is Ecuador's most famous wave and surf town - a right-hand point break that barrels at low tide over a rocky reef. The vibrant party town atmosphere attracts surfers, backpackers, and beach lovers from around the world. When rare N swells hit during summer, the point produces perfect, long rides.
🎉 Ecuador surf capital • Right point barrels • Party town
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 200°-315°.
Montanita Beach is the beginner-friendly beach break in front of the famous surf town. At high tide, mellow waves offer perfect learning conditions, while numerous surf schools line the sand.
🌊 Beginner beach • Surf school central • High tide fun
La Rinconada is a left reef break just south of Montanita point, offering an alternative when the main break is too crowded. The wave works best with SW swells and offers quality walls over the coral reef.
🌊 Montanita alternative • Left reef • Fewer crowds
Olon is the quieter neighbor to party-town Montanita, offering consistent beach break waves with a more family-friendly atmosphere. The long stretch of beach provides plenty of peaks to spread out.
👨‍👩‍👧 Family-friendly • Montanita escape • Quiet beach
Salinas is Ecuador's westernmost point and a wealthy resort town with multiple surf breaks around the peninsula. The various point and reef breaks offer options for different conditions and skill levels.
🏖️ Resort town • Multiple breaks • Western tip
Multiple reef/point breaks. Resort town.
Playas (officially General Villamil) is the closest surf to Guayaquil, making it popular with city surfers. The area has several right point breaks that offer consistent waves year-round.
🏙️ Guayaquil closest surf • Multiple points • Weekend escape
Tsurigasaki Beach, locally known as Shidashita, made history as the venue for surfing's Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games. Located on Chiba's Kujukuri coast, this exposed beachbreak acts as a catcher's mitt for swells from the north, east, and south. The shifting sandbars produce peaks that can get hollow during typhoon swells, and the competitive atmosphere has produced many of Japan's best surfers. Its proximity to Tokyo makes it crowded on weekends, but the quality and consistency justify its world-class status.
🏅 Olympic surf venue • Tokyo's premier waves • Japanese surfing capital
Works best with swells from 110° (ESE). Workable range: 45°-155°.
Typhoon season Sep-Oct best. Winter NE swells also work.
Very crowded on weekends. Strong currents on bigger days.
Train to Kazusa-Ichinomiya station, then bus or taxi.
Onjuku is Chiba's mellow alternative to the competitive intensity of Tsurigasaki. This family-friendly beach town offers gentle waves that are perfect for beginners and longboarders, with a relaxed atmosphere featuring seafood restaurants and small guesthouses. The wave is forgiving, the local vibe is welcoming, and the train access from Tokyo makes it an easy day trip. When typhoon swells hit, even Onjuku can produce surprisingly fun walls.
🏖️ Family-friendly vibes • Gentle learner waves • Chiba's chill side
Works best with swells from 100° (E). Workable range: 85°-150°.
Summer typhoon swells best. Gentle winter waves.
Family-friendly but watch for rips on bigger days.
Train to Onjuku station, beach is walkable.
Katsuura sits at the southern end of Chiba's surf coast, rewarding those who venture farther from Tokyo with beautiful waves and significantly fewer crowds. The beachbreak produces quality peaks during typhoon swells, and the fishing town atmosphere includes some of the best seafood on the coast. The extra distance filters out the weekend warriors, leaving more waves for those who make the trip.
🐟 Southern Chiba escape • Quality peaks • Famous fishing town
Works best with swells from 120° (ESE). Workable range: 70°-160°.
Offshore wind from 290° (WNW). Offshore range: 250°-340°. Best window: morning.
Typhoon season delivers best swells. Less crowded than northern Chiba.
Currents can be strong during larger swells.
Kugenuma is the beating heart of Shonan surf culture, just 40 minutes by train from Tokyo's Shinjuku station. The beach represents Japanese surf history, celebrating the roots of 60s and 70s surf culture with a chill, welcoming community. The waves are small and inconsistent—dependent on typhoon swells—but the cultural significance and accessibility make this a pilgrimage site for any surfer visiting Japan. Views of Mt. Fuji on clear days complete the experience.
🗻 Shonan soul • Mt. Fuji views • Tokyo's beach escape
Typhoon season only. Often flat outside storm windows.
Extremely crowded. 40 min train from Tokyo draws masses.
Odakyu Line from Shinjuku to Kugenuma-Kaigan station.
Kaifu River is nicknamed the Japanese Pipeline, and when typhoon swells funnel into this rivermouth in southern Tokushima, the name is justified. The wave produces grinding right-hand barrels over a sandbar formed by the Kaifu River's outflow, located in the scenic Muroto-Anan Quasi-National Park. Access to the peak is reserved for experienced surfers, and localism runs deep—but those who earn respect are rewarded with some of Japan's heaviest tubes.
🔥 Japanese Pipeline • Typhoon barrels • Earned respect only
Offshore wind from 320° (NW). Offshore range: 280°-360°. Best window: morning.
Typhoon season Jun-Nov produces world-class waves.
Wave reserved for experienced surfers. Strong localism.
Car essential. Limited public transport.
Ikumi sits at the heart of Shikoku's surf coast, straddling the border between Tokushima and Kochi prefectures. This is where many of Japan's professional surfing contests are held, with quality beachbreak peaks that respond well to typhoon swells. The area represents the most popular surf zone in Shikoku, with consistent waves and a developed surf infrastructure. The southeast-facing exposure captures the full force of Pacific typhoon energy.
🏆 Shikoku contest venue • Pro-level peaks • Typhoon energy
Works best with swells from 120° (ESE). Workable range: 80°-170°.
Offshore wind from 310° (NW). Offshore range: 270°-350°. Best window: morning.
Typhoon season best. Many pro contests held here.
Currents on bigger days. Contest-level crowds during events.
Car recommended. Between Tokushima and Kochi.
Niyodo Rivermouth is Shikoku's heavy-water gem, a challenging rivermouth break that features fast, powerful right-handers when the sandbanks set up properly. The Niyodo River is famous for having some of Japan's clearest water, and when solid typhoon swells arrive, the rivermouth produces world-class cylinders. Smaller swells mellow it out for longboarding in summer, but when it's pumping, this is serious wave riding.
💪 World-class cylinders • Heavy righthanders • Crystal-clear Niyodo
Works best with swells from 150° (SSE). Workable range: 110°-190°.
Needs solid swell to break properly. Summer logs possible.
Shifting peaks make takeoff tricky. Respect local surfers.
Kisakihama is Miyazaki's most reliable surf spot, a long uninterrupted stretch of beach nestled between the Kiyotake and Kaeda rivers. The rivermouth sandbars produce quality peaks that work in a huge range of conditions, making this one of the most consistent spots in all of Japan. The 2019 ISA World Surfing Games were held here, cementing its reputation as a world-class venue. Miyazaki's warm subtropical climate and mellow vibe have earned it the nickname "Hawaii of Japan."
🌴 Hawaii of Japan • ISA World Games venue • Year-round consistency
Works best with swells from 110° (ESE). Workable range: 45°-140°.
Most consistent spot in Miyazaki. Works year-round.
Crowded during contests. Currents between rivermouths.
Easy access from Miyazaki city. Parking available.
Aoshima is a jewel of Miyazaki surf culture, a long stretch of beach opposite the tiny Aoshima island with its famous shrine. The wave is forgiving and consistent, making it perfect for beginners and surf schools, while the amenities—free parking, nearby cafes, rental shops—make it accessible. July typically delivers the cleanest waves, with summer typhoon swells providing the most consistent surf. Walking distance to Aoshima Shrine makes this a cultural experience as much as a surf destination.
⛩️ Shrine island backdrop • Beginner paradise • Miyazaki's soul
Works best with swells from 120° (ESE). Workable range: 80°-150°.
July cleanest. Summer typhoons deliver best swells.
Popular weekend spot. Many surf schools.
Okuragahama was named one of the "Best 100 Beaches in Japan," and the 4-kilometer stretch of white sand and quality peaks justifies the title. Located near Hyuga City in northern Miyazaki, the beach offers both left and right-handers across its expansive length, with enough room to escape crowds. The triangular sandbars formed by rivermouth outflows produce quality waves during typhoon season, and the scale of the beach means there's always a peak with space.
🏆 Best 100 Beaches Japan • 4km of peaks • Northern Miyazaki gem
Typhoon season best. 4km of peaks to spread crowds.
Strong currents on bigger days. 4km beach spreads crowds.
Best 100 Beaches in Japan list, Surf Atlas
North of Miyazaki city. Car recommended.
Takezaki is surfing at the edge of space—literally. This quality beachbreak sits beneath sandstone cliffs near JAXA's Tanegashima Space Center, where you can catch waves with rocket launch pads visible in the background. The island is considered Japan's best surf destination, with its long narrow shape catching swells from both the Pacific and East China Sea. When typhoons roar past, Takezaki produces powerful, quality waves—though access becomes difficult with flights and ferries cancelled.
🚀 Surf meets space • JAXA rocket backdrop • Japan's best waves
Best during typhoons. Year-round swell possible.
Remote island. Flights and ferries cancelled during storms.
Fly or ferry from Kagoshima. Car essential on island.
Ikarashi Cospo is the heart of Sea of Japan surfing, producing consistent waves when Siberian winter storms sweep across from the northwest. The beach features white sand, dunes, and gorgeous views of Sado Island, with mellow waves that work for all levels. The water is shallow enough to touch bottom, making it ideal for beginners, while winter swells can produce fun right-handers across multiple peaks. The local community is welcoming, without the localism found at more famous breaks.
❄️ Winter storm swells • Sado Island views • Sea of Japan soul
Works best with swells from 300° (WNW). Workable range: 260°-340°.
Needs at least 6s period. Ideal: 9s+ (long-period groundswell).
Winter NW swells from Siberian storms. Summer flat.
Near Niigata city. Parking and facilities available.
Machino Rivermouth sits on the exposed Noto Peninsula of Ishikawa Prefecture, jutting out into the Sea of Japan to catch maximum swell from Siberian winter storms. When northwest winds howl down from the continent, this rivermouth lights up with powerful peaks—some of the biggest barrels Japan has to offer. The remote location means empty lineups, but also cold water, limited facilities, and serious commitment. This is frontier surfing for those who earn their waves.
🌊 Noto Peninsula power • Maximum swell exposure • Frontier surfing
Works best with swells from 320° (NW). Workable range: 280°-335°.
Winter only. Noto Peninsula catches maximum swell.
Remote peninsula. Cold water requires full winter gear.
Remote drive to Noto Peninsula. Car essential.
Hamaatsuma is Hokkaido's most accessible surf spot, a beginner-friendly beachbreak south of New Chitose Airport with consistent 2-foot waves and full facilities. The water is cold year-round—even summer requires at least a 3/2 wetsuit—but the tradeoff is uncrowded waves and an authentic Japanese surf experience far from the Tokyo masses. August through November offers the best combination of warmer water and typhoon swells.
🥶 Hokkaido frontier • Uncrowded waves • Cold-water adventure
Typhoon season best. Summer warmest water.
Cold water year-round. Full wetsuit required even summer.
South of New Chitose Airport. Parking and facilities.
Shioya is where Japan's surf and ski cultures collide—a rivermouth break near Otaru that lights up with the same Siberian storms that dump legendary powder on Niseko and Hokkaido's ski resorts. The water temperature drops near freezing, requiring 5mm+ wetsuits with hoods, gloves, and boots, but the reward is empty, powerful waves with snow-covered beaches. A small but committed community of surfers brave these conditions, often combining morning surfs with afternoon powder runs.
🎿 Surf & ski country • Siberian storm power • Powder & waves
Winter only. Same storms that bring powder to ski resorts.
Bitter cold. Water temp near freezing. 5mm+ wetsuit essential.
Near Sapporo. The same road to Niseko ski resorts.
Sunabe Seawall is the most hallowed ground for surfing in Okinawa, a series of reef breaks along a seawall near American Village. The area features multiple distinct peaks—Bowls, California, Hawaiians, Hotels—each breaking over rock reef with dedicated paddle channels. The consistent windswell from October through March combines with occasional typhoon groundswells to produce fun waves in tropical water. Shallow reef means you surf around high tide and wear booties, but the warm water and welcoming community make this a Waikiki-like experience.
🌺 Okinawa's sacred ground • Warm reef breaks • Tropical vibes
Works best with swells from 280° (W). Workable range: 240°-320°.
Oct-Mar for NW swells. Summer typhoons possible.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🦔 Urchins, 👥 Crowded, ⚠️ Shallow
Shallow reef. Booties recommended. Only surf around high tide.
Near American Village. Easy access from Naha.
Ikei Island offers Okinawa's best east-coast waves, catching E-SE swells when the popular west-side breaks are blown out by onshore winds. The island is accessible by car via bridges, but getting to the surf requires a long paddle to the point—worth it for those who make the effort. The reef break works for all levels, with beautiful coastal scenery and significantly fewer crowds than Sunabe. Tide-dependent like all Okinawa breaks, with surfing limited to higher tides.
🏝️ East coast escape • Long paddle reward • Okinawa's hidden gem
East coast works when west has onshore. Typhoon season best.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🦔 Urchins, ⚠️ Shallow, 🚶 Difficult access
Long paddle to point. Very shallow at low tide.
Drive to Ikei Island via bridges. Long paddle out.
Sendai-Shinko is described as one of Japan's best beachbreaks, producing barrelling peaks when solid swells arrive from the Pacific. Located on the Tohoku coast, this northern break catches both typhoon swells from the southeast and winter swells from the northeast. The water is colder than southern Japan, but the quality of the waves—hollow and powerful when it's on—rewards those who brave the temperatures. The Sendai surf community is active and welcoming.
🌊 Japan's best beachbreak • Tohoku barrels • Northern quality
Typhoon season and winter NE swells. Cold water Oct-May.
Can get crowded as Sendai's main surf beach.
Sendai city beach. Accessible by train and car.
Shirahama is the Izu Peninsula's premier surf beach, a consistent beachbreak that hosts competitions and draws surfers from across the Kanto region. The white sand beach is picture-perfect, and the wave works across a range of conditions, though it needs typhoon swells to really come alive. The scenic Izu Peninsula drive makes the journey worthwhile, and the area offers hot springs (onsen) to warm up after cold-water sessions.
♨️ Izu Peninsula gem • White sand beauty • Hot springs après-surf
Works best with swells from 140° (SE). Workable range: 125°-180°.
Summer typhoon swells. Popular contest venue.
Train to Izukyu-Shimoda, then bus. Beautiful coastal drive.
Shizunami represents Shizuoka Prefecture's growing surf infrastructure, with a new surf stadium built nearby that signals Japan's investment in wave-riding culture. The southeast-facing beach catches typhoon swells and produces quality peaks across multiple sandbars. Located between Shizuoka city and the surf towns of Hamamatsu, this is a reliable option when Chiba is too crowded or the swell angle favors the southern coast.
🏟️ New surf stadium zone • Shizuoka quality • Growing scene
Works best with swells from 150° (SSE). Workable range: 110°-170°.
Typhoon season best. New surf stadium built nearby.
Between Shizuoka and Hamamatsu. New surf park nearby.
The Zoo at Presque Isle is the crown jewel of Great Lakes surfing—a reef break in a sheltered bay that produces remarkably clean waves when northerly storms sweep across Lake Superior. Named for a historic zoo that once stood nearby, this spot benefits from Superior's deep water and long fetch, generating swells up to 12 feet in major storms. The local crew is dedicated and welcoming, braving sub-zero temperatures in full winter gear. When the wind shifts offshore and the swell lines up, The Zoo delivers wave quality that rivals ocean spots.
🦌 Great Lakes flagship spot • Deep water reef break • Fall/winter storms
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 300°-45°.
Needs at least 4s period. Ideal: 7s+ (long-period groundswell).
Fall and winter storms bring the best swells. NE-N winds create waves.
Cold water, ice possible. Reef break near rocks. Historic zoo site in park.
Park at Presque Isle Park. Short walk to break.
Stoney Point is the premiere surfing location on Lake Superior—a gnarly reef break that catches the full fury of northeastern storms. Located on the scenic North Shore between Duluth and Two Harbors, the spot features exposed granite shelves that create powerful, lined-up waves reaching 10-12 feet in major weather events. The remoteness means you'll rarely encounter crowds, but the tradeoff is frigid conditions and no facilities. When NE gales rake across the lake's 350-mile fetch, Stoney Point delivers some of the most impressive freshwater waves on the planet.
⚡ Premiere Lake Superior reef • 10-12ft in storms • Remote wilderness
Works best with swells from 45° (NE). Workable range: 0°-90°.
NE winds generate best swells. Peak storms October-February.
Exposed granite reef. Very cold water. Remote location between Duluth and Two Harbors.
Along Scenic Highway 61, 10 miles north of Duluth. Multiple rocky access points.
Grand Marais sits on a remote stretch of Lake Superior's southern shore, where a natural sandbar and breakwall create one of the Great Lakes' most reliable surf setups. The small harbor town is surrounded by the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, adding stunning scenery to your surf session. When NW winds push swells into the bay, waves line up nicely with both left and right options. The local scene is small but stoked—this is surfing at its most pure, far from crowds and hype, just you and the lake.
🌲 Pictured Rocks setting • Sandbar + breakwall • Pure Great Lakes soul
Works best with swells from 330° (NNW). Workable range: 310°-25°.
Needs at least 4s period. Ideal: 6s+ (long-period groundswell).
Fall and winter storms. NW-N swells work best.
Waves break near line of rocks. Take precautions to avoid collisions.
Small harbor town. Beach access from waterfront.
The Elbow is the epicenter of Sheboygan's surf scene and the reason this Wisconsin town earned the nickname "Malibu of the Midwest." Named for the angled pier that connects to the historic lighthouse, this spot features a slabby granite reef that produces surprisingly punchy waves when conditions align. Sheboygan juts out into Lake Michigan, exposing it to winds from nearly every direction, which means more surfable days than almost anywhere else on the lake. The dedicated local crew surfs year-round, breaking out 6mm suits and icicle beards in winter.
🏄 Malibu of the Midwest • Slabby granite reef • Sheboygan's best
September through April. NE and SW winds both work.
Angled pier structure. Granite reef shelf.
Deland Park, adjacent to North Pier and lighthouse. Easy beach access.
Sheboygan North Beach stretches half a mile north of Deland Park, offering multiple shifting peaks that are more forgiving than the nearby reef breaks. Part of Sheboygan's legendary 22 breaks along 5 miles of coast, this sandy beach is where many Great Lakes surfers learn their craft. The soft golden sand and gradual bottom make it ideal for beginners, while the outer bars can produce quality waves on bigger swells. When The Elbow is too gnarly, North Beach provides a mellower alternative with plenty of room to spread out.
🌊 Freshwater Surf Capital • Beginner-friendly • 22 breaks in 5 miles
Ideal size: 1.2m. Too small below 0.4m, too big (closeout) above 2m.
September through April peak. Multiple peaks along half-mile beach.
Standard beach conditions. More forgiving than reef breaks.
North Beach at Deland Park. Half-mile sand beach with multiple peaks.
Grand Haven is Lake Michigan's oldest documented surf spot, with a scene dating back decades. Located at the mouth of the Grand River where the historic South Pier extends into the lake, this beach break offers remarkably consistent surf by Great Lakes standards. SW and NW winds both generate rideable waves, and the pier provides some organization to the swell. Grand Haven State Park makes access easy, with a beautiful beach, lighthouse views, and the famous Musical Fountain nearby. A perfect introduction to freshwater surfing.
🏛️ Lake Michigan's oldest spot • Historic pier break • Consistent
SW and NW winds create waves. Pier provides some protection.
Pier structure. Standard beach rips on bigger swells.
Grand Haven State Park at South Pier. Easy access from pier parking.
St. Joseph's Silver Beach sits at the mouth of the St. Joseph River, about 90 minutes east of Chicago, making it the go-to Great Lakes surf destination for Midwest urbanites. The beach break picks up W and SW winds well, and the pier at the river mouth helps organize incoming swells. The charming downtown, Silver Beach Carousel, and lighthouse add to the experience. Not the most powerful waves on the lake, but reliable, accessible, and with a growing local scene. Perfect for Chicago surfers escaping the city on storm days.
🌆 Chicago's escape • Silver Beach vibes • Southwest Michigan reliable
Fall through spring. SW Michigan reliable.
Standard beach conditions. Pier at river mouth.
Silver Beach at mouth of St. Joseph River. 90 minutes from Chicago.
Sandbanks Provincial Park on Lake Ontario's north shore claims the longest wave periods in the Great Lakes—a bold statement backed by the lake's unique geometry and SW fetch. The park features dramatic sand dunes, crystal-clear water, and a mix of beach, reef, and point break options. When SW winds blow across Ontario's length, Sandbanks lights up with clean, surprisingly powerful waves. The wine country of Prince Edward County surrounds the park, making this one of the more civilized Great Lakes surf trips. Just bring your thickest neoprene.
🍷 Wine country waves • Longest Great Lakes periods • Provincial park
Offshore wind from 15° (NNE). Offshore range: 330°-60°. Best window: morning.
SW winds create best waves. Longest periods in Great Lakes.
Very cold water. Full winter wetsuit required.
Sandbanks Provincial Park. 3 hours from Toronto.
Apelviken is Sweden's most famous surf spot—a sandy bay south of Varberg that catches W-NW winds funneling through the Skagerrak strait. The beach break offers soft, forgiving waves perfect for beginners, though bigger days can challenge experienced surfers. "A-Bay," as locals call it, is also a renowned windsurfing destination, and the dedicated surf center on the beach provides rentals, lessons, and warm drinks for frozen surfers. When autumn storms roll in off the Atlantic, Apelviken delivers surprisingly consistent surf in an unlikely Scandinavian setting.
🇸🇪 Sweden's best-known spot • Soft beach breaks • Scandinavian soul
Autumn and winter storms. W-NW winds produce best conditions.
Very cold water. Baltic Sea = low salinity means less buoyancy.
Torö Stenstrand is Sweden's most surfed spot—an exposed beach on Torö Island about 80km south of Stockholm where the Swedish surf scene truly established itself. The annual national surf competition has been held here since 1991, cementing its place in Scandinavian surf history. When SW to S winds exceed 10 m/s, waves stack up along the sandy beach with occasional rocky sections adding variety. The proximity to Stockholm makes it the capital's go-to wave when conditions align. Cold, committed, and surprisingly consistent.
🏆 Sweden's most surfed • National contest venue • Stockholm's go-to
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 135°-225°.
Ideal size: 1.1m. Too small below 0.3m, too big (closeout) above 1.8m.
SW-S winds produce waves. 10+ m/s winds needed.
Torö Island, 80km south of Stockholm. Easy beach access.
Constanta is the hub of Romania's emerging surf scene—a historic Black Sea port city where dedicated locals have carved out a wave-riding culture against all odds. The Black Sea's limited fetch means waves rarely exceed 2 meters and periods stay short, but when E-NE winds blow across the 950km open water, surfable conditions materialize along the sandy beaches. The ancient city, founded as a Greek colony 2,600 years ago, offers culture, nightlife, and nearby resort options. No sharks, no crowds, no ego—just pure surf stoke in an unexpected setting.
🇷🇴 Black Sea pioneer • Ancient port city • No sharks
East winds create waves. Autumn and winter best.
Relatively safe beach conditions. No sharks in Black Sea.
Multiple beach access points along Constanta coast.
Zicatela is Mexico's most famous wave and one of the heaviest beach breaks on the planet. Known as the Mexican Pipeline, it produces massive, thick-lipped barrels that break over a steep sandy bottom with violent force. When solid south swells hit during the summer months, Zicatela transforms into a world-class barrel factory that attracts the best tube riders on earth. The wave is not for the faint of heart—wipeouts here are legendary, and the power of the closeouts has ended many careers.
🔥 Mexican Pipeline • World's heaviest beach break • Massive summer barrels
Ideal size: 3.9m. Too small below 1.8m, too big (closeout) above 6m.
Offshore wind from 22° (NNE). Offshore range: 0°-45°. Best window: morning.
Peak season May-October when Southern Hemisphere swells hit. Best waves April-September.
🌀 Strong rips, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 👥 Crowded, ⚠️ Shallow
One of the heaviest beach breaks in the world. Extremely powerful closeouts. Not for beginners.
Easy beach access from town. Multiple entry points along the beach.
Killers at Isla Todos Santos is the West Coast's answer to Mavericks and Jaws—a world-class big wave spot where underwater canyons focus and amplify winter swells to terrifying proportions. Located on a small island 12 miles off Ensenada, the wave can hold faces of 60+ feet when the right storm tracks send massive NW swells down the coast. The remote location, cold water, and extreme power make this a proving ground for elite big wave surfers only.
⚡ West Coast big wave mecca • Canyon-amplified giants • Boat access only
Works best with swells from 290° (WNW). Workable range: 270°-310°.
Ideal size: 11.3m. Too small below 4.5m, too big (closeout) above 18m.
Winter NW swells. Needs large swell to break properly.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote, 🦈 Sharks, 🪨 Rocks
Boat access only. Cold water. Massive waves. Underwater canyon amplifies swell.
60 minutes drive from TIJ airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
Boat from Ensenada required. 30-minute boat ride to island.
Barra de la Cruz is a world-class right point break that put Mexico's Oaxacan coast on the global surfing map when it hosted a Rip Curl Search event. The wave starts with a dredging barrel section at the top that spits surfers into long, rippable walls perfect for carving turns. When solid south swells line up, the wave offers 200+ meter rides and machine-like perfection. The small fishing village atmosphere adds to the raw, authentic surf trip experience.
👑 World-class right point • Rip Curl Search venue • Dredging barrels to long walls
Works best with swells from 185° (S). Workable range: 170°-200°.
Offshore wind from 315° (NW). Offshore range: 270°-340°. Best window: morning.
Best during southern swell season. World-class conditions April-October.
Rocky point entry. Remote location. Bring supplies.
Dirt road access to small fishing village. Basic accommodations available.
Scorpion Bay is one of surfing's legendary destinations—a remote desert point break system where rides can connect for over 2 kilometers on the right swell. Third Point is considered the crown jewel of the seven-point setup, offering the best combination of length and quality. The wave peels endlessly over cobblestones, with enough push to keep you gliding while being forgiving enough for surfers of all abilities. The isolation and raw beauty of the Baja desert only add to the magic.
🏜️ Legendary 7-point system • 2km rides possible • Desert perfection
Works best with swells from 197° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-215°.
Offshore wind from 292° (WNW). Offshore range: 270°-315°. Best window: morning.
Summer south swells. Remote desert location.
Very remote. Bring all supplies. No services for miles.
Long drive from San Jose del Cabo (8+ hours). Basic camping at point.
Pascuales is Mexico's other world-class heavy beach break, rivaling Puerto Escondido for raw power and barrel quality. The wave breaks over a steep sand bottom that creates thick, heavy barrels that can reach triple overhead on solid swells. The takeoff zone is known for its violence—massive A-frames that detonate with board-snapping power. Less crowded than Zicatela but equally consequential, Pascuales is a proving ground for experienced tube riders.
⚡ Mexico's other heavy beach break • Massive A-frames • Board-snapping power
Ultra-heavy beach break. Strong currents. Not for beginners.
Beach access from small village. Basic accommodations nearby.
San Miguel is the birthplace of Mexican surf culture, a long right point that has been drawing surfers south of the border since the 1960s. The wave offers hollow, tapered rights that have been compared to a colder version of Rincon or Trestles. When winter NW swells light it up, the point comes alive with long walls and workable sections that reward both tube riding and power surfing. Its accessibility from Tijuana makes it the gateway wave to Baja surf exploration.
🇲🇽 Birthplace of Mexican surf • Trestles-like rights • Winter NW swells
Ideal size: 2.4m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 3.6m.
Rocky entry. Can get crowded on good swells.
Easy access from highway. Parking at the point.
Punta Conejo is one of Mexico's most remote and rewarding waves—a world-class right point hidden along the wild Oaxacan coastline. When south swells hit with the right direction, the point produces 300-500 meter rides that peel with mechanical perfection over rocks and reef. The journey to get there is part of the adventure, requiring either a boat trip or a long, rough drive through rural Mexico. Those who make the effort are rewarded with empty lineups and pristine waves.
🏝️ Remote world-class right • 500m rides • True adventure surf
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 165°-195°.
Ideal size: 1.5m. Too small below 0.6m, too big (closeout) above 2.4m.
Summer south swells. Very remote location.
Very remote. Boat or long drive required. Bring all supplies.
Long dirt road or boat access. Very remote.
Rio Nexpa is one of Mexico's premier left point breaks, a long cobblestone rivermouth wave that lights up with SW swells. The wave offers occasionally barreling sections combined with long, workable walls that allow for extended rides. The small surf village that has grown up around the break maintains a laid-back vibe, making it a popular destination for surfers looking to escape crowds while still finding quality waves. When it's on, Nexpa delivers some of the best lefts in mainland Mexico.
🌊 Mexico's best left point • Cobblestone perfection • Rivermouth magic
Works best with swells from 215° (SW). Workable range: 200°-230°.
Summer swells. Rivermouth creates excellent sandbars.
Cobblestone bottom. Strong currents near river.
Small surf village with basic accommodations.
Las Islitas in Matanchen Bay holds the Guinness World Record for the world's longest rideable wave at 5,700 feet. When conditions align—typically needing a large, long-period south swell—the wave can connect through multiple points for rides lasting several minutes. While jetty construction has altered the wave somewhat, it still offers the potential for extraordinarily long rides on the right day. The wave is mellow and forgiving, making those marathon rides accessible to surfers of various skill levels.
🏆 World's longest wave record • 5,700 ft rides • Mellow endless walls
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 170°-190°.
Offshore wind from 45° (NE). Offshore range: 30°-60°. Best window: morning.
Needs specific long-period south swell. Rare but epic.
Very long paddle. Mosquitoes in jungle areas.
Drive to San Blas, then to bay. Basic town accommodations.
La Ticla is a quality left point break on the Michoacan coast that gets hollow and powerful when south swells light it up. The wave breaks over a cobblestone reef near a rivermouth, offering long rides with barrel sections on the bigger days. The small village has a growing surf community but maintains a mellow, off-the-beaten-path vibe. It's an excellent option for surfers looking for quality lefts without the crowds of more famous spots.
🌊 Hollow left point • Cobblestone barrels • Off-the-beaten-path Mexico
Summer south swells. Works on most tides.
Small village with basic accommodations and camping.
Punta Chivo is one of the excellent right point breaks in the Salina Cruz corridor, an area known for its concentration of quality waves along the southern Oaxacan coast. The wave offers long walls with occasional barrel sections, breaking over a rocky point. It's part of a zone where multiple points can be surfed depending on swell direction and size, making it an ideal base for a Mexico surf trip during the summer swell season.
🌊 Salina Cruz corridor gem • Long rippable walls • Summer perfection
Summer south swells. Salina Cruz corridor.
Part of Salina Cruz point break corridor.
El Faro at Punta Mita is a world-class reef break that produces powerful A-frame peaks with hollow sections on both the left and right. Located at the tip of the Punta Mita peninsula, the wave picks up swell from multiple directions, making it one of the more consistent spots in the Nayarit region. Access can be complicated by the private resort that surrounds it, but boat access or proper arrangements can get you to one of Mexico's best reef breaks.
🔥 World-class reef break • Powerful A-frames • Punta Mita crown jewel
Works best with swells from 300° (WNW). Workable range: 280°-320°.
Works on both summer SW and winter NW swells.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🚶 Difficult access, 👥 Crowded
Private access issues. Shallow reef sections.
Access can be restricted by resort. Boat access often easier.
La Saladita is the perfect longboard wave—a gentle, incredibly long left point that offers ride after ride of smooth, gliding walls. The wave is forgiving and consistent, making it ideal for longboarders, beginners, and anyone looking to work on their style without battling heavy conditions. The small surf village has grown into a welcoming community of wave-sliders who appreciate the mellow vibe and seemingly endless supply of fun waves.
🏄 Perfect longboard wave • Endless gentle rides • Mellow surf village vibes
Summer south swells. Incredibly consistent.
Small surf village with various accommodation options.
Playa Linda is a quality beach break near Ixtapa that delivers consistent summer surf with hollow sections when conditions align. The wave offers good peaks for shortboarding with enough power to get barreled on the right sandbars. Its proximity to the Ixtapa resort zone makes it accessible while still maintaining a more authentic surf vibe than the touristy beaches nearby.
🌊 Quality Ixtapa beach break • Hollow summer peaks • Easy resort access
Easy beach access near Ixtapa resort zone.
Troncones Point is a quality right point break that has become the center of a growing surf community north of Ixtapa. The wave offers multiple sections that can connect on bigger swells, providing long rides with a mix of workable walls and occasional hollow sections. The village of Troncones has developed into a charming surf destination with boutique hotels and a welcoming local scene.
🌴 Growing surf community • Quality right point • Boutique Mexico surf
Summer south swells. Growing surf community.
Small surf village with boutique accommodations.
Punta Burros is a powerful left reef break near Punta Mita that delivers fast, hollow waves when WNW swells push through. The wave is known for its speed and power, challenging surfers with quick tube sections and critical drops. It's one of the heavier waves in the Nayarit region and rewards experienced surfers who can handle its intensity.
⚡ Powerful left reef • Fast hollow sections • Punta Mita power
Works best with swells from 295° (WNW). Workable range: 280°-310°.
Near Punta Mita peninsula. Multiple access points.
K-38 is a classic Baja beach break named for its kilometer marker on the toll road south of Tijuana. The spot delivers consistent peaks and occasional barrels when winter NW swells push through, making it a reliable option for surfers heading south of the border. Its accessibility and consistency have made it a popular destination for Southern California surfers looking for less crowded waves.
🛣️ Classic Baja beach break • Kilometer 38 • Consistent winter peaks
Works best with swells from 285° (WNW). Workable range: 270°-300°.
Winter NW swells. Consistent and accessible.
Can get crowded on good swells. Typical beach break hazards.
Easy highway access. Named for kilometer marker.
San Pedrito is a fun beach break with reef elements near the artistic town of Todos Santos. The wave offers a mix of peaks that work on both summer south swells and winter NW swells, making it a relatively consistent option in Baja California Sur. The surrounding area has developed into a charming destination with galleries, restaurants, and a bohemian vibe that attracts both surfers and artists.
🎨 Todos Santos gem • Beach break with reef • Artistic Baja vibes
Summer south swells. Can also catch winter NW.
Cerritos is the go-to beginner and intermediate beach in the Todos Santos area, offering consistent, forgiving waves that are perfect for learning and progressing. The wide beach and mellow peaks make it ideal for surf lessons, and several surf schools operate here year-round. Even when other spots are too big or too small, Cerritos often has something rideable.
🏄‍♂️ Baja's learning beach • Consistent forgiving waves • Surf school central
Offshore wind from 0° (N). Offshore range: 330°-30°. Best window: morning.
Year-round waves. Consistent and forgiving.
Popular beach with surf schools and rentals.
La Lancha is a powerful left reef break near Punta Mita that gets heavy when size fills in. The wave offers hollow sections over shallow reef, demanding respect and experience. It's one of the more challenging waves in the Nayarit area but rewards committed surfers with quality barrels.
⚡ Heavy Punta Mita left • Powerful reef break • Gets serious when big
Works year-round with different swell directions.
Near Punta Mita. Boat access also common.
Stoners is a long right point near San Blas that can connect with Las Islitas on big swells for extraordinarily long rides. The wave offers consistent walls perfect for carving and the occasional barrel section. The laid-back surf scene here attracts those looking to escape crowds and enjoy Mexico's jungle coast.
🌴 San Blas right point • Connects to Las Islitas • Jungle surf vibes
Summer south swells. Can connect with Las Islitas.
El Faro in Salina Cruz is a quality reef break offering multiple peaks along the southern Oaxacan coast. The wave provides good options for both lefts and rights, making it a versatile spot in the Salina Cruz corridor. When south swells light up the region, this spot delivers consistent, quality surf.
🌊 Salina Cruz reef • Multiple quality peaks • Summer swell magnet
Summer south swells. Part of Salina Cruz corridor.
Punta Colorada is a quality right point near Puerto Escondido that offers a less crowded alternative to the heavy beach breaks in town. The wave provides long walls with occasional hollow sections, perfect for surfers looking for quality rides without the intensity of Zicatela.
🌊 Puerto Escondido alternative • Quality right point • Escape the crowds
Works best with swells from 195° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-210°.
Summer swells. Alternative to crowded Zicatela.
Near Puerto Escondido. Less crowded alternative.
La Punta is the mellow right point at the south end of Puerto Escondido, offering a forgiving alternative to the heavy beach breaks nearby. The wave is perfect for longboards and intermediate surfers, with long walls that peel consistently throughout the swell season. It's the go-to spot when Zicatela is too heavy or you just want a fun, cruisy session.
🏄 Mellow Puerto point • Longboard heaven • Fun alternative to Zicatela
Year-round waves. Mellower option in Puerto.
South end of Puerto Escondido. Easy access.
Shipwrecks is a powerful right reef on Baja's East Cape that comes alive during summer hurricane season when SE-S swells wrap into the Sea of Cortez. The wave offers quality barrels over a rocky reef, rewarding those who make the journey to this remote stretch of coast. When a hurricane tracks up the Pacific, this is one of the spots that can turn on with world-class conditions.
🌀 East Cape hurricane spot • Powerful reef right • Summer swell specialist
Offshore wind from 315° (NW). Offshore range: 290°-340°. Best window: morning.
Summer hurricane swells. Needs SE-S direction.
East Cape area. Dirt road access to remote coastline.
Chickens is the more forgiving big wave option on Isla Todos Santos, offering a step up in size without the life-threatening consequences of Killers. The wave provides quality rights in the 15-foot range, making it accessible to experienced surfers looking to push their limits without going full-send on the main peak. It's often where surfers warm up before paddling over to Killers.
🐔 Todos Santos step-up • More forgiving big wave • Killers warm-up spot
Winter NW swells. More forgiving than Killers.
Boat access only. Cold water. Big wave spot.
Boat from Ensenada. On same island as Killers.
Zippers is Los Cabos' most famous wave, a powerful beach break with reef influence that delivers consistent surf within easy reach of the resort corridor. The wave offers hollow peaks and punchy walls, making it popular with both locals and visiting surfers. Its accessibility and quality have made it the centerpiece of the Cabo surf scene.
🏖️ Los Cabos flagship wave • Powerful beach break • Tourist-accessible quality
Offshore wind from 337° (NNW). Offshore range: 315°-360°. Best window: morning.
Works year-round. More consistent in summer.
Costa Azul beach. Easy access from Los Cabos.
First Point at Scorpion Bay is the most forgiving of the legendary 7-point system, offering long, mellow rides perfect for longboards and intermediate surfers. The wave provides an introduction to the magic of Scorpion Bay without the challenges of the faster inside points. On the right swell, rides can connect through multiple points for extraordinarily long waves.
🏜️ Scorpion Bay intro point • Mellow long rides • Desert longboard paradise
Summer south swells. Easiest of the points.
Long drive. First point in the 7-point system.
Second Point at Scorpion Bay offers more challenge than First Point, with better shape and more push on bigger swells. The wave connects between First and Third Point on good days, allowing for incredibly long rides through the system. It's the stepping stone between the mellow outside and the faster inside sections.
🏜️ Scorpion Bay step-up • Connects the points • Desert perfection continues
Summer swells. Better shape on bigger days.
Very remote. More challenging than First Point.
Second point in the system. Better on bigger swells.
San Diego is a remote right point in the Salina Cruz corridor, offering long rides away from the more accessible spots. The wave requires effort to reach but rewards with uncrowded lineups and quality walls that peel for extended distances when south swells light up the coast.
🏝️ Remote Salina Cruz point • Uncrowded long rights • True adventure surf
Summer south swells. Remote Salina Cruz corridor.
Tres Emes (3M's) is a quality right point south of San Miguel that offers multiple sections when winter NW swells light up the Baja coast. The wave provides a less crowded alternative to San Miguel with similar quality rights peeling over a rocky bottom.
🌊 Baja point alternative • Multiple quality sections • Winter NW swells
South of San Miguel. Part of Baja point break corridor.
Baja Malibu is a long, mellow right point just south of the US-Mexico border that has become popular with longboarders seeking easy waves. The wave offers long rides without much power, making it ideal for cruisy sessions and nose-riding. Its proximity to Tijuana makes it one of the most accessible Baja spots.
🏄 Baja's Malibu • Mellow longboard right • Easy border crossing surf
Winter NW swells. Popular longboard spot.
Just south of border. Easy access from Tijuana.
Nine Palms is an East Cape reef break that comes alive during summer when hurricane swells send SE-S energy into the Sea of Cortez. The wave offers quality rights over a reef bottom, providing a remote surf experience away from the more developed Los Cabos corridor.
🌴 East Cape reef • Summer hurricane swells • Remote Baja perfection
Summer hurricane swells. East Cape specialist.
La Bahia is a protected beach break at Punta Mita that offers beginner-friendly waves when conditions elsewhere are too big. The wave provides a safe environment for learning and longboarding, making it popular with surf schools and those new to the sport.
🏖️ Protected Punta Mita beach • Beginner-friendly • Safe learning environment
Year-round waves. Protected from bigger swells.
Protected beach at Punta Mita. Good for beginners.
Carrizalillo is a beautiful cove beach near Puerto Escondido that offers fun, intermediate-level waves in a stunning setting. The protected bay provides mellower conditions than Zicatela, making it perfect for progression and fun sessions. Access is via stairs down the cliff, adding to the secluded feel.
🏝️ Beautiful Puerto cove • Protected fun waves • Scenic beach escape
Beautiful cove beach. Stairs required for access.
Salsipuedes Point is a remote right point south of Ensenada that rewards those willing to make the effort with quality, uncrowded waves. The name translates to "get out if you can," hinting at both the difficult access and the commitment required to surf here. When winter swells light it up, the point delivers excellent rights far from the crowds.
🏝️ Remote Baja point • "Get out if you can" • Uncrowded quality rights
Remote point south of Ensenada. Requires effort to reach.
La Fonda, also known as K-58 for its kilometer marker, is a quality reef break offering multiple peaks along the Baja coast south of Tijuana. The wave provides both lefts and rights depending on the swell direction, making it a versatile option for surfers exploring the region.
🌊 Baja reef break • Multiple quality peaks • K-58 winter waves
Winter NW swells. Named for kilometer marker.
Kilometer 58 on toll road. Easy highway access.
El Anclote is a mellow right point in the village of Punta Mita, perfect for longboards and beginners. The wave offers long, gentle rides that are ideal for learning and cruising. The charming village atmosphere and easy access make it a popular destination for surfers of all levels.
🏄 Punta Mita village wave • Mellow longboard right • Charming surf town
Year-round waves. Mellow longboard spot.
Punta San Jose is a remote point break south of Ensenada that offers a less crowded alternative to the more famous San Miguel. The wave delivers quality rights when winter swells push through, rewarding surfers who venture beyond the accessible spots.
🌊 Remote Baja point • San Miguel alternative • Uncrowded winter rights
Winter NW swells. Less crowded alternative.
La Pastora is a Todos Santos beach break that gets powerful when size fills in, offering more challenge than the mellow waves at nearby Cerritos. The wave delivers quality peaks with punch, making it a good option for experienced surfers looking for more action.
⚡ Todos Santos power • Beach break with punch • When Cerritos is too mellow
Summer south swells. Powerful beach break.
Costa Azul, also known as The Rock, is a powerful reef break in the Los Cabos corridor that demands respect and experience. The wave breaks over shallow reef, delivering hollow sections and serious consequences for mistakes. It's the heavy option in an area otherwise known for more forgiving waves.
⚡ Los Cabos power reef • Expert only • Hollow serious waves
Old Man's is the go-to beginner spot at Costa Azul, offering mellow, forgiving waves perfect for learning to surf. The gentle break and sandy bottom make it safe for first-timers, and numerous surf schools operate here. It's the soft introduction to Cabo surfing before tackling more challenging spots.
🏄‍♂️ Cabo beginner beach • Mellow learning waves • Surf school central
Ideal size: 1.1m. Too small below 0.6m, too big (closeout) above 1.5m.
Costa Azul beach. Popular with surf schools.
Urchins is a big wave spot on Isla Todos Santos that sits between Chickens and Killers in terms of size and consequence. Named for the sea urchins that cover the reef, the wave offers serious big wave surfing in the 20-foot range. It's the stepping stone for surfers working their way up to Killers.
🦔 Todos Santos step-up • Killers apprenticeship • Named for the urchins
Ideal size: 4.2m. Too small below 2.4m, too big (closeout) above 6m.
Winter NW swells. Step up from Chickens.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote, 🪨 Rocks, 🦔 Urchins
Boat from Ensenada. On Todos Santos Island.
Rosarito Pier is a consistent beach break near the iconic pier in Rosarito, offering reliable peaks when winter swells push through. Its easy access from Tijuana and proximity to town amenities make it a popular choice for casual surf sessions.
🏖️ Rosarito beach break • Pier-side peaks • Easy Baja access
Las Gatas is a protected reef break in Zihuatanejo Bay that offers mellow, fun waves in a beautiful setting. The wave is forgiving and accessible, making it a good option for intermediate surfers visiting the charming fishing town of Zihuatanejo.
🐱 Zihuatanejo Bay reef • Mellow protected waves • Charming fishing town surf
Zihuatanejo Bay. Boat or water taxi common.
Punta Morena is the best wave in Caribbean Mexico, coming alive during Norte storm season when cold fronts push E-NE swells into the normally flat Caribbean. Located on Cozumel's east coast, the wave offers a rare chance to surf Mexico's Caribbean side, requiring specific weather patterns but delivering quality reef breaks when conditions align.
🌴 Caribbean Mexico's best • Norte storm specialist • Rare Caribbean surf
Works best with swells from 75° (ENE). Workable range: 60°-90°.
Offshore wind from 247° (WSW). Offshore range: 225°-270°. Best window: morning.
Caribbean reef. Needs specific storm conditions.
Fourth Point at Scorpion Bay is the fastest, most challenging section of the legendary 7-point system. The wave offers more push and speed than the outer points, demanding quick reflexes and solid rail work. On epic days, rides can connect from Third Point through Fourth for incredibly long waves.
🏜️ Scorpion Bay speed section • Most challenging point • Desert performance surf
Summer swells. Fastest section of the system.
Very remote. Fastest, most challenging point.
Coyote Cal's, named for the surf camp at kilometer 181, is a remote beach break in central Baja that offers uncrowded peaks far from civilization. The area requires commitment to reach but rewards with empty lineups and the raw beauty of Baja's desert coast.
🏜️ Remote Baja surf camp • K-181 uncrowded peaks • Desert solitude
Punta Pequena lies beyond Fourth Point in the Scorpion Bay system, rarely surfed on its own but occasionally reached on epic connecting rides. It represents the outer limits of the legendary point system, where only the longest swells and most determined surfers venture.
🏜️ Scorpion Bay outer limits • Rarely surfed • Epic connecting rides only
Rarely's is a second-tier big wave spot on Isla Todos Santos that breaks less frequently than Killers but offers quality big wave surfing when conditions align. Named for its infrequent perfection, the wave delivers rides in the 40-foot range on the biggest days, providing an alternative line for big wave surfers.
🌊 Todos Santos tier 2 • Named for its rarity • 40-foot alternative
Needs at least 16s period. Ideal: 19s+ (long-period groundswell).
Second tier big wave. Less consistent than Killers.
Thor's Hammer is a heavy slab on Isla Todos Santos that breaks with extreme power over shallow reef. The wave is aptly named—wipeouts here feel like being hit by a mythical weapon. Only the most committed big wave slabbers attempt Thor's Hammer, knowing the consequences of failure are severe.
⚡ Todos Santos heavy slab • Mythical power • Elite slabbers only
Ideal size: 6.0m. Too small below 3m, too big (closeout) above 9m.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, ⚠️ Shallow, 🏝️ Remote, 🪨 Rocks
Extremely heavy slab. Life-threatening consequences.
Valentinos is a reef break in the Mazatlan area that produces spinning hollow rights when summer swells hit. The wave offers quality barrels over a reef bottom, providing a more challenging option than the beach breaks in town.
🌊 Mazatlan reef barrels • Spinning hollow rights • Sinaloa surf scene
Los Patos is a left reef break in the Mazatlan area that complements the rights at nearby Valentinos. The wave offers a goofy-footer friendly option in a region dominated by right-breaking waves.
🌊 Mazatlan left reef • Goofy-footer option • Sinaloa variety
Summer south swells. Left complement to Valentinos.
Stone Island is a beach break accessible by boat from Mazatlan that offers fun peaks for surfers looking to escape the crowds. The wave provides a more relaxed vibe than the city breaks, with consistent summer surf.
🏝️ Mazatlan island escape • Fun beach peaks • Boat trip surf
Stone Island accessible by boat from Mazatlan.
Chivos is a reef break in Mazatlan offering multiple peaks that work on summer swells. The wave provides options for both lefts and rights, making it a versatile choice in the Sinaloa surf scene.
🌊 Mazatlan multi-peak reef • Left and right options • Sinaloa summer surf
Teacapan is a remote rivermouth near the Sinaloa-Nayarit border, where shifting sandbars create quality peaks when summer swells hit. The wave requires effort to reach but rewards with uncrowded surf in a wild, natural setting.
🏝️ Remote Sinaloa rivermouth • Shifting sandbar magic • Off-the-grid surf
Barra de Navidad is a rivermouth break at the entrance to a lagoon on the Jalisco coast, producing quality waves when conditions align. The charming colonial town adds to the appeal, offering a blend of surf and Mexican culture that defines the authentic Costalegre experience.
🌴 Jalisco lagoon mouth • Colonial charm meets surf • Costalegre gem
Rivermouth can have water quality issues.
Puerto Arista is Mexico's southernmost Pacific surf zone, a beach break in Chiapas that catches summer swells heading toward Central America. The remote location and tropical climate create a unique surf experience far from the more developed Mexican coast, offering consistent waves for those willing to venture to the country's frontier.
🌴 Mexico's southernmost surf • Chiapas frontier • Tropical beach break
Summer swells. Southernmost Pacific surf zone.
Southernmost surf zone on Mexican Pacific.
Punta Sal is Peru's northernmost surf destination, offering warm tropical waters near the Ecuador border. The mellow left point is perfect for beginners and longboarders seeking a tropical experience without the cold Humboldt Current.
🌴 Peru tropical surf • Warmest water • Beginner paradise
Year-round. Warmest water in Peru. Near Ecuador border.
Mancora is Peru's premier beach party destination with quality surf. The long left point offers forgiving waves in warm water, making it popular with beginners and the backpacker crowd.
🎉 Party surf town • Warm water lefts • Backpacker scene
Year-round. Party town vibes. Warm water.
Cabo Blanco is Peru's heaviest wave - a powerful left point that produces thick, hollow barrels when solid SW swells hit. Made famous as Hemingway's marlin fishing spot, it now attracts barrel hunters seeking some of South America's gnarliest tubes.
🎣 Peru's Pipeline • Hemingway heritage • Heavy tubes
Best March-October. Needs solid swell. Historic big wave spot.
Rocky bottom. Occasional shark sightings.
Panic Point is the heavier member of the Lobitos wave family - a powerful left that produces hollow barrels over a rocky bottom. The name says it all: this is a step up from the main Lobitos point.
😱 Lobitos heavy section • Hollow lefts • Expert territory
Works best with swells from 220° (SW). Workable range: 200°-255°.
Best March-October. Part of Lobitos wave complex.
Punta Nunura is a remote left point break in the vast Sechura desert region. The isolation means empty waves for those willing to make the journey through barren landscapes.
🏜️ Desert isolation • Empty perfection • Adventure required
Pimentel is a charming surf town with a historic wooden pier dating back to the late 1800s. The beach break offers consistent waves for beginners and intermediates, with the pier providing an iconic backdrop.
🏛️ Historic pier town • Consistent beach break • Gateway to Chiclayo
Works best with swells from 205° (SSW). Workable range: 185°-235°.
Crowded weekends. Pier creates currents.
Beach town with historic pier. Near Chiclayo.
Eten offers a left point break alternative to nearby Pimentel, with fewer crowds and a more authentic fishing village atmosphere. The wave is consistent and workable for intermediate surfers.
🎣 Quiet point alternative • Fishing village vibes • Fewer crowds
El Faro is the starting section of the legendary Chicama wave complex - when conditions align, you can catch waves here and ride all the way through to the inner sections for the world's longest ride.
🗼 Chicama starting point • Connects to main wave • Part of longest ride
Works best with swells from 210° (SSW). Workable range: 195°-230°.
Part of Chicama wave complex. First section.
Cerro Azul is a classic Peruvian left point in a small fishing port south of Lima. The wave offers consistent, workable walls that make it a favorite weekend escape for Lima surfers.
🏘️ Lima weekend escape • Consistent left point • Fishing port charm
Pico Alto 2 is the everyday surf spot at Punta Hermosa, distinct from the famous big wave spot offshore. This left point offers consistent waves accessible to intermediate surfers.
🏄 Punta Hermosa everyday wave • Consistent lefts • Easy access
Works best with swells from 195° (SSW). Workable range: 175°-220°.
Year-round. More accessible than Pico Alto.
Caballeros is the premier wave at Punta Hermosa - a reliable right reef that produces quality walls and barrels when solid S swells arrive. Competition venue for local events.
🏆 Punta Hermosa righthander • Competition venue • Reliable reef
Senoritas is the mellow, beginner-friendly wave at Punta Hermosa. The protected beach break offers gentle waves perfect for learning, with numerous surf schools operating here.
🌊 Beginner paradise • Protected beach • Surf school central
Kon Tiki is one of Peru's premier right-hand waves, named after Thor Heyerdahl's famous raft expedition that departed from nearby Callao. The wave offers powerful, hollow rights over a rock reef.
⛵ Heyerdahl heritage • Quality rights • Powerful reef break
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 170°-215°.
Needs solid swell. Named after Thor Heyerdahl expedition.
Playa Norte is San Bartolo's main beach break, offering consistent waves in a popular Lima beach resort setting. Good for intermediate surfers looking for uncomplicated waves.
🏖️ Beach resort waves • Consistent peaks • Lima summer escape
Makaha is the closest quality wave to central Lima, breaking below the cliffs of upscale Miraflores district. Urban surfing at its finest - grab a post-surf pisco sour within walking distance.
🌆 Urban surf • Miraflores cliffs • City surfing
Below Miraflores cliffs. Stairway access.
Redondo is the higher-quality alternative to nearby Makaha, producing longer and more shapely lefts when decent swell arrives. Still urban Lima surfing but with better wave potential.
🌊 Better urban wave • Longer rides • Lima quality option
Year-round. Better with more swell than Makaha.
Miraflores urban beach access; verify exact bank/section before treating the pin as takeoff-precise.
Puerto Inca offers the unique experience of surfing beside ancient Inca ruins - a remote left point at what was once a major Inca fishing port. The isolation and archaeological setting make it one of Peru's most memorable surf spots.
🏛️ Ancient Inca port • Archaeological waves • Desert isolation
Remote Inca archaeological site. Basic camping.
Camana is the beach escape for Peru's second city Arequipa. Consistent beach break waves and good tourist infrastructure make it the most accessible surf in southern Peru.
🏔️ Arequipa's beach • Southern Peru gateway • Consistent waves
Year-round. Popular Arequipa beach destination.
Main beach resort for Arequipa. Good infrastructure.
Mollendo is a historic Peruvian port town with several quality surf spots. The main left point offers consistent waves with a charming old-town backdrop.
⚓ Historic port waves • Multiple spots • Southern charm
Mejia offers the unique combination of surf and birdwatching - the beach break sits adjacent to Lagunas de Mejia, Peru's most important wetland sanctuary with over 200 bird species.
🦩 Wildlife sanctuary waves • Birdwatcher surf • Natural beauty
Near Lagunas de Mejia wetland sanctuary.
Ilo is a southern Peruvian mining port with surprisingly good surf. The left point picks up consistent swell and sees few surfers due to its industrial setting.
⛏️ Mining port surf • Empty waves • Industrial backdrop
Port pollution concerns. Rocky sections.
Mining port. Limited tourist infrastructure.
Boca del Rio is Tacna's main beach resort, located near the Chilean border. The river mouth beach break offers consistent waves in Peru's southernmost surfable region.
🇵🇪 Southern border waves • River mouth • Last Peru surf
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 205°-260°.
Tacna's beach resort. Near Chilean border.
Los Palos is Peru's southernmost quality surf spot - a remote left point in the desert just north of the Chilean border. Complete isolation and consistent waves reward the adventurous.
🏜️ Peru southernmost point • Desert isolation • Border country
Best March-October. Remote desert point.
Remote point near Chile border. 4WD recommended.
La Boca is the inside, more forgiving section of the Pacasmayo wave system. Perfect for intermediate surfers or when the main point is too intense.
🌊 Pacasmayo inside section • Forgiving waves • Learn to point surf
Year-round. Inside section of Pacasmayo.
Inside section of Pacasmayo point system.
Punta Negra is a quality left reef break between the more famous Punta Hermosa and San Bartolo. When solid S swells arrive, it produces hollow barrels over a rock and coral reef.
🪨 Black point barrels • Quality reef • Lima corridor gem
Chicama - El Point is the iconic main section of the world's longest left-hand wave. On perfect days, riders connect from El Point through El Hombre, Malpaso, and Keys for rides exceeding 2 kilometers. This is the wave that put Peru on the global surfing map.
🌍 World longest left • 2km+ rides • Bucket list wave
Best March-November with S-SW groundswells.
Main section of Chicama. Can connect with El Hombre.
El Hombre is the power section of Chicama - where the wave gains momentum after El Point and produces the longest, most perfect walls. Named 'The Man' for its size and power, this is where Chicama shows its true character.
💪 Power section • Connects the wave • Where Chicama gets real
Malpaso is Chicama's barrel section - where the wave hits a shallower reef and throws perfect tubes at low tide. The name means 'bad pass' in Spanish, referring to the challenging shallow section that rewards those who commit.
🛢️ Barrel section • Low tide tubes • Chicama hollow
Chicama Keys is the final inside section near the old pier, where perfect walls peel to their conclusion. Many surfers paddle out here for the more workable waves when the outer sections are too challenging.
🔑 Inside section • Near the pier • Perfect walls
Ideal size: 1.9m. Too small below 1.5m, too big (closeout) above 2.4m.
Lobitos Main Point is the centerpiece of this dusty oil-town-turned-surf-camp - a long, mechanical left that offers 200+ meter rides on good days. The wave has hosted international contests and draws surfers willing to rough it for world-class waves.
⛽ Oil town perfection • Long mechanical lefts • Contest venue
Best March-October with SW groundswells.
El Hueco ("The Hole") is the hollow reef section of Lobitos - a slab-like left that throws barrels over a shallow rock shelf. When pure S swells hit, this is one of the most challenging waves in the Lobitos complex.
🕳️ The Hole • Shallow slab • Lobitos barrel
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 165°-200°.
La Frontera is the connecting section between the main Lobitos points, where waves link up on bigger swells to create extended rides through the complex. A stepping stone between El Hueco and the main point.
🔗 Connector wave • Links the points • Extended rides
Baterias is a consistent left point break south of the main Lobitos wave, offering all-tide surfing with fewer crowds. Named after old military batteries, the wave provides a reliable alternative when other spots are too crowded or challenging.
🎯 All-tide option • Consistent left • Fewer crowds
Offshore wind from 112° (ESE). Offshore range: 90°-135°. Best window: both.
Piscinas ("Swimming Pools") is the mellow member of the Lobitos family - a forgiving left point perfect for intermediate surfers or when the main break is too powerful. Named for the tide pools that form along the rocks.
🏊 Tide pool point • Beginner-friendly • Lobitos mellow option
Penascal is a quality left reef break within the Punta Hermosa complex, offering an alternative to the more crowded main breaks. The wave produces hollow sections over a rock reef when SW swells light up the Lima coast.
🪨 Punta Hermosa reef • Quality left • Less crowded option
La Isla is a left reef break near a distinctive rock formation at Punta Hermosa. The wave offers consistent walls when SW swells hit, with an easier paddle-out than some neighboring breaks.
🏝️ Island rock landmark • Consistent left • Easy paddle
Playa Waikiki is a historic beach break below the Miraflores cliffs, named in honor of Hawaii. One of Lima's original surf spots, it offers beginner-friendly waves with stunning clifftop views and easy access via the Malecon boardwalk.
🌺 Lima historic beach • Hawaiian namesake • Clifftop views
Miraflores beach access near the Waikiki/Makaha section; pin is section-level, not a surveyed takeoff.
La Rosa Nautica is a beach break adjacent to the famous pier restaurant of the same name - an iconic Lima landmark. The beginner-friendly waves offer convenient urban surfing with post-session ceviche just steps away.
🦞 Famous restaurant pier • Urban beach break • Ceviche nearby
El Elio is the main left point at Huanchaco, the ancient fishing village famous for its caballitos de totora (reed boats). The wave offers quality walls with a unique cultural backdrop - fishermen still use traditional reed craft here.
🚣 Reed boat heritage • Huanchaco point • Ancient fishing village
El Boqueron is a right-hand beach break at the north end of Huanchaco that lights up during rare N swell events. When the rest of Peru is flat, this protected section can offer fun waves.
🌊 N swell window • Right beach break • When Peru is flat
Offshore wind from 135° (SE). Offshore range: 110°-160°. Best window: both.
Sunkella is a left point break near the ancient Chan Chan ruins - the largest adobe city in the pre-Columbian Americas. Surf history meets archaeological history at this unique spot.
🏛️ Near Chan Chan • Archaeological surf • Ancient backdrop
Los Organos is a right reef break in a fishing village famous for whale watching. The north-facing coastline picks up NW swells that miss most of Peru, offering a unique swell window when S swells are absent.
🐋 Whale watching village • NW swell window • Right reef
Works with N-NW swells. North-facing coast.
Negritos Point is a left point break in an oil industry town south of Lobitos. The wave offers consistent surf with fewer crowds, though the industrial backdrop is less picturesque than neighboring breaks.
⛽ Oil town left • Empty lineup • Industrial backdrop
Organitos is a beginner-friendly beach/reef break near Los Organos that picks up NW swells. The mellow waves make it a good alternative when the main reef is too challenging.
🏖️ Beginner option • NW swells • Near Los Organos
Punta Ballenas ("Whale Point") is a left reef break near Mancora, offering a more challenging alternative to the town wave. The name refers to the humpback whales that migrate through these waters.
🐳 Whale Point • Left reef • Near Mancora
Zorritos is a beach break near Peru's northern border with Ecuador, offering warm tropical waters and consistent waves. The relaxed fishing village provides an off-the-beaten-path surf experience.
🌴 Border town waves • Tropical warmth • Off beaten path
Offshore wind from 157° (SSE). Offshore range: 135°-180°. Best window: both.
Works with N-NW swells. Near Ecuador border.
San Gallan Island is a remote right reef break in the Paracas National Reserve, accessible only by boat. The island is home to sea lions and seabirds, offering a true wilderness surf experience in cold Humboldt Current waters.
🏝️ Island adventure • Boat access • Wildlife sanctuary
Remote island. Sea lions. Boat required.
240 minutes drive from LIM airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
Puemape is a left point break between the famous Chicama and Pacasmayo waves, offering a less crowded alternative when the main attractions are busy. The wave provides consistent, workable walls.
🌊 Hidden gem • Between the famous spots • Less crowded
Punta Prieta ("Dark Point") is a left point break in the La Libertad region, offering uncrowded waves near the more famous Chicama and Pacasmayo. The dark volcanic rock gives the spot its name.
🌑 Dark Point • Volcanic rock • Empty waves
Puerto Nuevo is a beach and point break near Cerro Azul, offering an alternative when the main break is crowded. The fishing village setting provides an authentic Peruvian coastal experience.
🎣 Fishing village • Near Cerro Azul • Authentic vibes
Laje de Jaguaruna is Brazil's answer to Nazaré, a massive offshore slab that produces some of the biggest waves in the Southern Hemisphere when giant Antarctic swells march up the coast. The wave breaks over a shallow rock shelf about 2km offshore, creating towering walls of water that have exceeded 15 meters. This is strictly tow-in territory for the most experienced big wave surfers, with jet ski support essential. The spot gained international recognition when Brazilian chargers began pushing the limits here, culminating in a 14.82m ride in 2025.
🌊 Brazil's Nazaré • Tow-in slab • 50ft+ potential
Works best with swells from 157° (SSE). Workable range: 135°-200°.
Ideal size: 9.8m. Too small below 4.5m, too big (closeout) above 15m.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🪨 Rocks, 🏝️ Remote, ⚠️ Shallow
Tow-in only. Extremely dangerous shallow reef slab.
120 minutes drive from FLN airport. Requires boat access ($500/day).
Ilha dos Lobos is Brazil's most powerful wave, a Teahupoo-style slab that detonates over a shallow rock shelf near Torres in Rio Grande do Sul. The wave is named after the sea lion colony that inhabits the nearby island and breaks with incredible force when large SE swells hit the coast. Access is currently restricted due to conservation efforts, making this an exclusive big wave venue for those with permits. When it's on, the barrel is thick, hollow, and unforgiving.
⚡ Brazil's Teahupoo • Conservation restricted • Maximum power
Works best with swells from 135° (SE). Workable range: 112°-180°.
Ideal size: 7.3m. Too small below 4.5m, too big (closeout) above 10m.
Currently restricted for conservation. Tow-in only.
180 minutes drive from POA airport. Requires boat access ($400/day).
Praia da Vila in Imbituba is Brazil's answer to Sunset Beach, a powerful beach break that can handle serious size when winter swells push up from the Antarctic. The wave breaks over deep water sandbars that shift with the seasons, creating A-frame peaks that barrel on solid swells. Local chargers have pushed the limits here on triple overhead days, earning the spot a reputation as one of Brazil's premier big wave beach breaks. The surrounding town has a laid-back fishing village vibe.
🌊 Brazil's Sunset Beach • Triple overhead potential • Deep water power
Works best with swells from 157° (SSE). Workable range: 135°-182°.
Ideal size: 2.6m. Too small below 1.8m, too big (closeout) above 3.5m.
Silveira Point, nicknamed "Mike Tyson" by locals for its punching power, is one of southern Brazil's best right-hand point breaks. The wave wraps around a rocky headland and offers long, hollow rides when solid S swells light up the coast. The takeoff is intense and the inside section throws thick lips over shallow rock, making it a spot that demands respect. The local crew here is tight-knit and experienced, so visiting surfers should show proper etiquette.
🥊 "Mike Tyson" • Powerful right point • Hollow barrels
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 157°-202°.
Guarda do Embaú is a UNESCO World Surfing Reserve and one of Brazil's most iconic waves, a long left-hand point that has drawn comparisons to Uluwatu. The wave breaks off a rocky headland at the mouth of the Madre River, which you must cross by paddling or small boat to access the lineup. When solid S swells arrive, the point offers long, walling lefts with hollow sections that can run for 200+ meters. The village maintains a rustic fishing town atmosphere despite its fame.
🏆 World Surfing Reserve • Uluwatu comparisons • River crossing access
Must cross river to access - paddle or boat
Saquarema is the home of Brazilian surfing and hosts the WSL Championship Tour every year at Itaúna Point. The wave is a powerful right-hand point that breaks over a sand-covered rock shelf, producing long, hollow barrels when winter swells push up from the south. The spot has produced more world champions than anywhere else in Brazil, with Gabriel Medina, Adriano de Souza, and Filipe Toledo all cutting their teeth here. Expect heavy crowds and a competitive atmosphere, but the wave quality justifies the hype.
🏆 WSL CT venue • Brazil's most famous wave • World champion factory
Ideal size: 2.9m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 4.5m.
Barrinha is Saquarema's heavy wedge, a thick right-hander that throws massive barrels when direct SW swells hit the coast. The wave jacks up dramatically over a shallow sandbar, producing some of the hollowest tubes in Brazil outside of Fernando de Noronha. It's a step up from the main Itaúna peak and rewards committed surfers with Hawaiian-style caverns. The takeoff is critical and the lip throws hard, making it a spot that separates the tourists from the locals.
💥 Heavy wedge • Hawaiian-style barrels • SW swell magnet
Maresias is Gabriel Medina's home break and arguably the most high-performance beach break in Brazil. The wave breaks over shifting sandbars that produce world-class barrels when autumn and winter swells push up from the south. The "Canto do Moreira" section at the south end is the most famous peak, where Medina grew up learning the airs and tubes that would make him a two-time world champion. The nightlife here is legendary, making it a complete surf trip destination.
🏆 Gabriel Medina's home • World-class beach break • Legendary nightlife
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 157°-225°.
Year-round with best swells in autumn/winter
Joaquina is the surfing capital of Santa Catarina and one of the most famous beaches in southern Brazil. The wave breaks over a long sandy stretch backed by impressive dunes, producing powerful lefts that have hosted national and international competitions for decades. The beach has a vibrant surf culture with numerous shapers, surf shops, and restaurants lining the approach road. When solid SE swells hit, the wave can hold double overhead with long, walling rides.
🏄 Santa Catarina's surf capital • Iconic dune backdrop • Competition venue
Moçambique is Florianópolis's longest beach and one of its most consistent, a sprawling stretch of sand that picks up any swell angle from E to SE. The beach is known for producing hollow barrels along its length, with multiple peaks offering plenty of space to spread out even on crowded days. The waves here are less powerful than Joaquina but more user-friendly, making it a favorite for both intermediate surfers and experienced locals looking for fun sessions.
🏖️ Floripa's longest beach • Consistent barrels • Multiple peaks
Works best with swells from 112° (ESE). Workable range: 90°-157°.
Ideal size: 1.7m. Too small below 0.9m, too big (closeout) above 2.5m.
Laje do Bode is Fernando de Noronha's right-hand gem, a perfect reef break that some locals consider even better than the more famous Cacimba do Padre. The wave breaks over a volcanic rock shelf and produces long, mechanical barrels when NNW swells wrap around the island. The takeoff is more forgiving than Cacimba but the inside section throws hard, rewarding surfers with deep, square tubes. Being on a remote volcanic island 350km offshore adds to the adventure.
💎 Noronha's secret gem • Perfect right reef • Longer than Cacimba
Offshore wind from 157° (SSE). Offshore range: 112°-202°. Best window: morning.
N/NW swells from North Atlantic winter storms
Fly to Fernando de Noronha (FEN), usually via Recife or Natal, then local transfer to the break.
Itacoatiara is the most powerful wave in Rio de Janeiro state, a heavy beach break wedged between dramatic granite boulders on the coast of Niterói. The "Costão" section at the south end produces the hollowest barrels, fast lefts that barrel over shallow sand with impressive force. The spot has hosted international competitions and is known for producing some of Brazil's best tube riders. The setting is stunning, with Sugar Loaf-like rock formations framing the lineup.
⚡ Rio's most powerful wave • Dramatic boulder setting • Competition venue
Laje do Shock is one of the most dangerous waves in Brazil, a shallow slab near Itacoatiara that breaks over just 3 feet of water. The wave only works on large SW swells and produces thick, square barrels that detonate with terrifying force. Only a handful of surfers have the skill and courage to ride this wave, as the consequences of a wipeout are severe - the shallow rock shelf has ended sessions and careers. This is strictly expert territory.
💀 3ft over rock • Death-defying slab • Experts only
Works best with swells from 202° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-247°.
Ideal size: 4.8m. Too small below 2.5m, too big (closeout) above 7m.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, ⚠️ Shallow, 🪨 Rocks, 🏝️ Remote
Extremely dangerous - only 3ft of water over rock
45 minutes drive from GIG airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
Abricadabras is one of Fernando de Noronha's hidden gems, a reef break between islands that produces perfect waves for those who know where to look. The takeoff is relatively easy, lulling surfers into a false sense of security before the inside section throws over extremely shallow reef. The wave requires local knowledge to access and time correctly, making it a reward for surfers who invest in building relationships on the island.
✨ Hidden gem • Easy takeoff, heavy finish • Local knowledge required
Biboca is Fernando de Noronha's big wave spot, a powerful reef break that only awakens when large N swells generated by North Atlantic storms make the 350km journey to this remote volcanic island. The wave is rarely surfed due to the combination of factors required to make it work - big swell, right wind, high tide - and the serious consequences of mistakes on this isolated reef. When it's on, Biboca offers the heaviest wave experience available on the island.
🌊 Noronha's big wave • Rarely surfed • Maximum commitment
Ideal size: 3.5m. Too small below 2.5m, too big (closeout) above 4.5m.
Campeche is Florianópolis's most consistent spot, a beach break that picks up any E to SE swell and produces fun, rippable waves throughout the year. The beach stretches for several kilometers with multiple peaks, including the famous "Campeche Rights" that peel down the line with surprising quality. The offshore island of the same name provides some swell filtering that can clean up messy conditions. It's the go-to spot for Floripa locals when other spots are flat.
✅ Floripa's most consistent • Year-round waves • Multiple peaks
Works best with swells from 90° (E). Workable range: 67°-135°.
Praia Mole is Florianópolis's fashion beach, known for its beautiful people, vibrant bar scene, and surprisingly consistent waves. The beach break produces hollow A-frames that barrel over the sandy bottom, offering both lefts and rights depending on the sandbar configuration. While it's not the most powerful wave on the island, the consistent conditions and social atmosphere make it a favorite for surfers who appreciate a complete beach experience.
🌴 Floripa's fashion beach • Consistent A-frames • Vibrant scene
São Conrado is one of Rio's best-kept secrets, a beach break beneath the dramatic Pedra da Gávea that Rob Machado once called his favorite wave in the city. The "Pepê" section produces fast, hollow A-frames that barrel over the sandy bottom, rewarding quick reflexes and committed tube riding. The beach is also the landing zone for hang gliders jumping off the mountain above, adding to the surreal Rio experience.
🪂 Rob Machado's Rio favorite • Fast hollow A-frames • Hang glider landing zone
Works best with swells from 142° (SE). Workable range: 120°-187°.
Offshore wind from 0° (N). Offshore range: 315°-67°. Best window: morning.
Can get crowded, watch for hang gliders landing
Prainha is Rio de Janeiro's most consistent quality surf spot, a crescent-shaped beach nestled in the Atlantic Forest reserve west of the city. The wave breaks over a mix of sand and rock, producing powerful peaks that can handle solid S and SW swells without closing out. The setting is stunning - dense green jungle tumbles down to the beach, making it feel a world away from the urban chaos just 30 minutes back toward the city. The local crew is experienced and the vibe is more serious than Rio's tourist beaches.
🌳 Atlantic Forest setting • Rio's best quality wave • Pristine environment
Works best with swells from 202° (SSW). Workable range: 157°-247°.
Itamambuca is one of Ubatuba's premier waves and a regular competition venue on the Brazilian surf circuit. The rivermouth creates constantly shifting sandbars that produce powerful peaks with both lefts and rights. The beach can pick up swell from almost any direction, making it one of the most versatile spots on the São Paulo coast. The surrounding area is lush and tropical, with the river providing a natural boundary that keeps the vibe more relaxed than some of Brazil's more famous breaks.
🏆 Competition venue • Multiple quality peaks • Year-round versatility
Works best with swells from 135° (SE). Workable range: 95°-170°.
Offshore wind from 315° (NW). Offshore range: 270°-45°. Best window: morning.
Cardoso Point is part of Santa Catarina's famous "Big Surf Route" and offers one of the region's best right-hand point breaks. The wave wraps around a rocky headland and produces long, walling rights with hollow sections that barrel on solid S swells. The spot is less crowded than the more famous breaks further north, making it a favorite for surfers willing to drive the extra distance. The surrounding area has a rustic, small-town feel.
🛣️ Big Surf Route • Quality right point • Less crowded
Praia do Rosa is one of the most beautiful beaches in Santa Catarina, a crescent-shaped bay framed by green hills that has become a favorite for eco-tourists and surfers alike. The wave produces powerful lefts on solid S swells, with the south end of the beach offering the most consistent peaks. The town has maintained its bohemian charm despite growing popularity, with excellent restaurants and a laid-back atmosphere. Right whale watching is a bonus in winter months.
🐋 Crescent bay beauty • Powerful lefts • Whale watching in winter
Ferrugem is arguably the most consistent surf spot in all of Brazil, with surfable waves an estimated 300 days per year. The beach break picks up any swell direction from SE to S and produces fun, rippable A-frames suitable for all levels. The town has grown into a surf hub with shapers, surf schools, and a vibrant nightlife scene. When everywhere else is flat, Ferrugem usually has something to ride.
✨ Brazil's most consistent • 300 days/year • Always something to ride
Works best with swells from 157° (SSE). Workable range: 112°-200°.
Grumari is Rio de Janeiro's most pristine surf beach, an environmental reserve where big wave legend Carlos Burle has called his favorite local spot. The beach is protected from development, creating a natural sanctuary just an hour from the city center. The waves are versatile, handling various swell directions and producing both lefts and rights along the beach. Access is controlled and parking limited, which keeps the crowds manageable even on good days.
🌿 Environmental reserve • Carlos Burle's favorite • Pristine nature
Arpoador is Brazil's most iconic urban surf spot, a rocky point break between Ipanema and Copacabana that has been the heart of Rio's surf scene for over 50 years. The wave is lit at night for after-dark sessions, a unique feature that has made it famous worldwide. The left peels along the rocks toward the beach, offering clean walls when SE swells wrap in. The sunset views from the rock are legendary, drawing crowds of spectators who applaud as the sun dips below the horizon.
🌅 Brazil's iconic wave • Night surfing • Legendary sunsets
Works best with swells from 157° (SSE). Workable range: 90°-180°.
Corais is Itacaré's premier reef break, a hollow left that barrels over coral in the warm tropical waters of Bahia. The wave is accessed via a jungle trail and offers some of the most pristine reef surfing in Brazil. When E/NE swells push in, the wave transforms into a mechanical tube machine, throwing over the shallow reef with impressive consistency. Booties are recommended due to the coral and sea urchins.
🪸 Tropical reef barrels • Jungle trail access • Warm water perfection
Works best with swells from 67° (ENE). Workable range: 45°-112°.
Shallow coral reef - booties recommended
Tiririca is the main surf beach in Itacaré and the heart of Bahia's surf scene. The beach break produces consistent lefts that barrel over the sandy bottom, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors. The town has developed into a proper surf destination with plenty of accommodation, surf shops, and the famous beach bars. When swells hit, competitions often run here, drawing the region's best talent.
🏄 Itacaré's main break • Consistent barrels • Competition venue
Ideal size: 1.4m. Too small below 0.9m, too big (closeout) above 2m.
Offshore wind from 247° (WSW). Offshore range: 202°-292°. Best window: morning.
Farol de Santa Marta is a dramatic lighthouse point at the southern tip of Laguna, where wave quality takes a significant step up from the surrounding beaches. The point offers both lefts and rights depending on swell direction, with the right being particularly noteworthy on bigger days. The lighthouse provides a stunning backdrop and the remote location keeps crowds minimal. On large S swells, the wave can hold serious size.
🏠 Lighthouse point • Dramatic quality jump • Big wave potential
Itapirubá is a versatile spot on the Santa Catarina coast where a rocky headland creates quality peaks on both sides. The north and south beaches catch different swell directions, making it a reliable option regardless of which way the ocean is sending energy. The spot sees fewer crowds than more famous nearby breaks, making it a good option for surfers willing to explore a bit further along the coast.
🔄 Two-sided headland • Multiple peaks • Less crowded option
Conceição is one of Fernando de Noronha's most beautiful beaches and a great option for surfers looking to escape the crowds at Cacimba. The beach break produces shorter, punchier waves than the island's famous points, making it ideal for a fun session in crystal-clear tropical water. The setting is postcard-perfect, with the iconic Morro do Pico providing a dramatic backdrop.
🏝️ Noronha beauty • Punchy beach break • Morro do Pico views
Fly to Fernando de Noronha (FEN), usually via Recife or Natal, then local transfer to Conceição.
Boldró is a mellow alternative on Fernando de Noronha's north coast, catching the same NNW swells that light up Cacimba but with less power and intensity. The wave is perfect for longboarders or surfers looking for a more relaxed session. The beach is quieter than the main spots and offers excellent snorkeling when the surf is flat.
🐢 Mellow alternative • Same swells, less intensity • Great snorkeling
Fly to Fernando de Noronha (FEN), usually via Recife or Natal, then local transfer to Boldró.
Pico de Matinhos is Paraná state's best right-hand point, a throaty barrel that wraps around a rocky headland with impressive intensity. The wave offers excellent length on solid S swells and produces some of the best tubes in southern Brazil outside of Santa Catarina. The local crew is tight but welcoming to respectful visitors.
🥊 Paraná's best right • Throaty barrels • Quality tubes
Engenhoca is accessed via a 20-minute trail through the Atlantic rainforest, and the journey is half the experience. The beach produces mellow, powerful peaks perfect for all levels, in a setting of pristine tropical beauty. The isolation keeps crowds minimal and the vibe pure. Pack water and supplies for the walk.
🌴 Rainforest trail access • Pristine isolation • Mellow peaks
Prainha in Itacaré is a versatile spot that offers different experiences depending on the season. In winter, NE swells produce spectacular rights. In summer, the left point comes alive with perfect, tubular waves. This seasonality makes it a spot worth visiting multiple times to experience both personalities of this beautiful Bahian beach.
🔄 Seasonal shifts • Winter rights, summer lefts • Double personality
Works best with swells from 67° (ENE). Workable range: 45°-180°.
Offshore wind from 180° (S). Offshore range: 135°-225°. Best window: both.
Ponta Negra is Natal's main surf beach, an urban stretch of sand backed by the iconic Morro do Careca dune. The beach offers multiple peaks suitable for all levels, with the best waves typically found near the rocky sections. The city's surf scene is centered here, with plenty of surf schools, shops, and beach bars. The warm water and consistent waves make it an ideal learning destination.
🏖️ Natal's main beach • Morro do Careca backdrop • Surf hub
Offshore wind from 202° (SSW). Offshore range: 157°-247°. Best window: morning.
Praia do Amor is one of Pipa's most beautiful beaches, accessed via steep stairs that wind down dramatic red cliffs. The heart-shaped cove (that gives the beach its name) produces consistent peaks suitable for intermediate surfers. The setting is stunning and the town of Pipa above offers excellent nightlife and restaurants. Dolphins are frequently spotted in the area.
❤️ Heart-shaped cove • Dramatic cliff access • Dolphin sightings
Works best with swells from 90° (E). Workable range: 67°-105°.
Pipa Lajão is a rocky right point that offers longer rides than the nearby beach breaks. The wave wraps around the headland with hollow and ripable sections, making it a step up in quality when conditions align. The rocky bottom requires care but produces more defined waves than the sandy breaks nearby.
➡️ Right point • Longer rides • Rocky quality
Geribá is the main surf beach in glamorous Búzios, offering consistent peaks in a scenic resort setting. The beach break produces fun waves suitable for all levels, with the added bonus of being in one of Brazil's most sophisticated beach towns. The nightlife, restaurants, and cobblestone streets make it a complete destination beyond just the surf.
✨ Glamorous Búzios • Consistent peaks • Resort vibes
Madeiro is a beautiful beach in the Pipa area famous for its resident spinner dolphins that often surf alongside humans. The beach produces mellow rights over a mix of rock and sand, protected from S winds by the surrounding cliffs. The combination of consistent waves, dolphins, and natural beauty makes it one of the most magical surf experiences in Brazil.
🐬 Dolphins in the lineup • Protected bay • Magical atmosphere
Leblon Pontão is where Rio's big wave surfers go when massive SW swells hit the coast. The rocky point at the end of Leblon beach produces powerful rights that hold serious size, making it one of the few spots in the city that doesn't close out on larger days. The wave is fast, punchy, and rewards experienced surfers who commit to the drop.
🌊 Rio's big wave spot • Handles size • Powerful rights
Barra da Tijuca is Rio's sprawling 18km beach that has hosted WSL Championship Tour events. The long stretch offers multiple peaks that shift with the sandbars, giving surfers plenty of options to spread out. Posto 4 is the traditional surf hub, but quality waves can be found along the entire length. The modern high-rise backdrop contrasts with the natural beauty of the ocean.
🏢 18km of peaks • Former CT venue • Modern Rio
Lagoinha do Leste is Florianópolis's hidden paradise, a pristine beach accessible only via a challenging 2-hour hike through Atlantic Forest. The effort is rewarded with uncrowded waves breaking in one of the most beautiful natural settings on the island. A freshwater lagoon meets the sea here, creating a unique landscape. Bring supplies and allow a full day for the adventure.
🥾 2-hour hike access • Pristine paradise • Worth the effort
Santinho is one of Florianópolis's most consistent beaches on the north side of the island. The beach picks up E to SE swells and produces quality peaks along its length. Ancient petroglyphs on the surrounding rocks add historical interest to the area. The nearby resort development has made it more accessible but also more crowded.
🏛️ Ancient petroglyphs • Consistent waves • North island gem
Quatro Ilhas (Four Islands) is a scenic beach in the Bombinhas region, named for the four islands visible offshore. The beach produces consistent quality peaks and is notably less crowded than the famous breaks further south in Florianópolis. The clear water and surrounding nature make it a relaxing alternative.
🏝️ Four islands view • Less crowded • Relaxed atmosphere
Praia Brava is Balneário Camboriú's surf beach, separated from the main tourist strip by a headland. The north end produces the best waves, though the local crew can be territorial about their peak. The beach offers quality waves when E/SE swells hit, and the nearby resort infrastructure means plenty of accommodation options.
🏨 BC's surf beach • North end peak • Local crew territory
Itiraquera is a quality beach break in the Imbituba area with three distinct peaks offering both lefts and rights. The waves are hollow and fun, and the beach sees fewer crowds than nearby Rosa or Ferrugem. It's a good option for surfers looking to escape the busier spots.
3️⃣ Three quality peaks • Hollow A-frames • Crowd escape
Works best with swells from 157° (SSE). Workable range: 135°-172°.
Camacho is part of Santa Catarina's Big Surf Route, offering quality beach break peaks in a less developed setting. The waves here can be excellent when the sandbars align, and the distance from Florianópolis keeps crowds manageable. The surrounding dune landscape adds to the wild feel.
🛣️ Big Surf Route • Wild dune setting • Uncrowded peaks
Paúba is one of the heaviest shorebreak barrels in São Paulo state, a wave that throws over extremely shallow water with punishing force. The wave is for experts only, as wipeouts result in violent contact with the hard sand bottom. When conditions are perfect, the tubes here rival anything in Brazil, but the consequences demand respect.
💥 Heavy shorebreak • Experts only • Maximum consequences
Camburi is a versatile beach in the São Sebastião area that offers good waves for various skill levels. The ends of the beach produce the best peaks, with the south end offering longer, peeling waves that longboarders love. The middle section has faster, more hollow waves. A good option for mixed groups.
🏄 All levels welcome • Peeling walls • Longboard friendly
Guarujá is São Paulo's most accessible surf destination, a beach resort that offers surprisingly good waves when swells hit. The rocky corners produce the best surf, with rights off the rocks being particularly noteworthy on bigger days. As the closest proper surf to São Paulo city, it gets crowded but delivers for those with limited time.
🌆 São Paulo's closest surf • Rocky corner rights • Weekend escape
Cepilho is a rocky point break near the colonial town of Paraty, offering quality waves in a stunning jungle-meets-ocean setting. The wave wraps around the rocks and produces both lefts and rights depending on the swell direction. The nearby town is one of Brazil's best-preserved colonial gems, making this an excellent surf/culture combination.
🏛️ Near colonial Paraty • Rocky point • Jungle setting
Lopes Mendes is consistently rated one of Brazil's most beautiful beaches, a 3km stretch of white sand on Ilha Grande that catches SW swells wrapping around the island. Getting there requires a ferry and a hike, but the reward is uncrowded waves in a pristine tropical setting. The beach has been protected from development, preserving its wild character.
🏝️ Island paradise • Ferry + hike access • Pristine beauty
Works best with swells from 202° (SSW). Workable range: 157°-227°.
150 minutes drive from GIG airport. Requires boat access ($30/day).
Aventureiro is Ilha Grande's most remote surf spot, a south-facing beach that catches swell blocked from the mainland by the bulk of the island. The journey here is an adventure in itself, requiring a boat trip to a tiny fishing community with basic camping facilities. When SW swells hit, the beach comes alive with uncrowded peaks in complete isolation.
⛺ Remote adventure • Camping community • Complete isolation
Works best with swells from 202° (SSW). Workable range: 157°-270°.
180 minutes drive from GIG airport. Requires boat access ($50/day).
Remote beach - boat only, camping available
Jacone is a consistent beach break south of the main Saquarema area, offering a mellower alternative to the famous Itaúna point. The waves here are more forgiving and the crowds lighter, making it a good option for intermediate surfers or those looking to escape the competition at the main peak.
🌊 Saquarema alternative • Less crowded • Consistent peaks
Praia do Forte is a tropical reef break north of Salvador, offering quality waves over coral in warm, clear water. The spot produces both lefts and rights on either side of a channel, giving options depending on conditions. The town is famous for its sea turtle conservation project and upscale eco-resort atmosphere.
🐢 Turtle conservation town • Coral reef waves • Tropical luxury
Praia Grande in São Francisco do Sul offers reliable surf in a charming colonial island town setting. The beach picks up swells from multiple directions and produces consistent peaks year-round. The historic town behind the beach adds cultural interest to any surf trip.
🏛️ Colonial town setting • Reliable peaks • Multi-directional
Capão da Canoa is one of Rio Grande do Sul's most popular beach towns, offering consistent surf along a long stretch of sandy coast. The waves are beginner-to-intermediate friendly and the town has a developed tourist infrastructure. Cold water is standard here, with temps dipping to 15°C in winter.
❄️ Cold water consistency • Developed resort • RS beach hub
Torres is unique on the Brazilian coast, where dramatic basalt cliffs meet the sea. Praia da Cal is one of the main surf beaches, offering quality peaks in a stunning geological setting. The cliffs provide some wind protection and the waves can be excellent.
🪨 Dramatic cliffs • Quality peaks • Unique geology
Guarita is another surf beach in the Torres cliff region, featuring waves that break among dramatic rock formations. The setting is spectacular and the waves can be excellent when conditions align. A natural park surrounds the area.
🏞️ Rock formations • Natural park • Scenic setting
Hermenegildo is Brazil's southernmost significant surf spot, a windswept beach near the Uruguay border. The remote location and cold water keep crowds minimal, and the waves can be excellent when winter swells push up the coast. This is frontier surfing at its most raw.
🇧🇷 Brazil's southernmost wave • Remote frontier • Cold water
Taíba is Ceará's most consistent surf spot, a right-hand point break that lights up when N swells generated by North Atlantic systems reach the northeast coast. The warm water and reliable trade winds make it a popular destination for kitesurfers as well. The fishing village setting retains authenticity despite growing surf tourism.
🪁 Ceará's best wave • Kite/surf combo • Warm water point
Works best with swells from 22° (NNE). Workable range: 0°-67°.
Jericoacoara is a legendary Brazilian beach destination, a former fishing village only accessible by 4x4 across the dunes. Famous globally for kitesurfing, it also produces solid beach breaks when NE swells push in during the wet season. The car-free sand streets, epic sunset dune, and bohemian atmosphere make it one of Brazil's most magical places.
🪂 Kite paradise • 4x4 access only • Magical atmosphere
Works best with swells from 45° (NE). Workable range: 22°-90°.
Fortaleza Iracema is an urban reef break in Ceará's capital, offering hollow, powerful waves over a flat rock shelf. The wave can be fast and punchy when NE swells arrive, and the city setting means easy access to food, lodging, and nightlife. Booties are recommended due to the sharp reef.
🏙️ Urban reef • Hollow and fast • City convenience
Works best with swells from 67° (ENE). Workable range: 22°-112°.
Tabatinga is a scenic beach south of Natal featuring dramatic dunes and headland reefs. The waves are mellow and consistent, making it a good option for intermediate surfers. The surrounding dune landscape is spectacular for exploring.
🏜️ Dune landscape • Headland reefs • Scenic setting
Cacimbinha is an uncrowded alternative to the busier Pipa beaches, offering quality peaks when N swells hit the coast. The beach is popular with paragliders launching from the cliffs above, adding to the scenic atmosphere.
🪂 Paraglider launch point • Uncrowded peaks • Pipa alternative
Montoya is one of Uruguay's premier surf spots, a powerful beach break that has hosted WSL qualifying events. The wave breaks over sand and rock ledges, producing punchy peaks with good barrel potential. The nearby resort infrastructure makes it comfortable for surf trips.
🏆 WSL venue • Rock ledge power • Uruguay's premier
Works best with swells from 157° (SSE). Workable range: 135°-202°.
El Emir is Punta del Este's most popular surf beach, featuring a famous shipwreck that creates interesting wave patterns. The beach produces consistent peaks and is the center of Uruguay's resort surf scene. The high-rise buildings behind contrast with the natural beauty of the ocean.
🚢 Shipwreck in lineup • Punta's most popular • Resort surf
Offshore wind from 335° (NNW). Offshore range: 290°-20°. Best window: morning.
José Ignacio is Uruguay's most fashionable beach town, a former fishing village turned jet-set destination. The surf is consistent and less crowded than nearby Punta del Este, while the restaurants and nightlife rival any in South America. The famous lighthouse adds charm.
✨ Jet-set destination • Less crowded surf • Famous lighthouse
Works best with swells from 157° (SSE). Workable range: 117°-172°.
La Paloma is a laid-back surf town on Uruguay's Rocha coast, offering consistent waves and a more authentic, less developed atmosphere than Punta del Este. Multiple beaches around the cape provide options for different swell directions.
🌅 Authentic Uruguay • Cape options • Laid-back vibes
La Pedrera is a bohemian surf village near La Paloma, known for its artistic community and sunset gatherings. The waves are consistent and uncrowded, and the town has excellent budget accommodation and a youthful party atmosphere in summer.
🎨 Bohemian village • Sunset gatherings • Budget surf trip
Punta del Diablo is a legendary fishing village near the Brazilian border, famous for its rustic charm and consistent surf. The town has resisted over-development, maintaining its wooden shack aesthetic and authentic fishing culture. Multiple beaches offer wave options, and the cold water keeps the crowds manageable.
🎣 Fishing village charm • Near Brazil • Rustic authenticity
Works best with swells from 157° (SSE). Workable range: 135°-187°.
Yacht Club is Mar del Plata's quality right-hand point, offering protection from the cold S winds that plague the region in winter. The wave breaks along a rocky headland near the famous yacht club, producing longer rides than the nearby beach breaks. Cold water and offshore winds make it challenging but rewarding.
⛵ Yacht club backdrop • Protected point • Quality rights
Miramar is a family-oriented beach town south of Mar del Plata, featuring multiple jetty breaks along its coast. Wave quality tends to increase toward the southern end of town. The town is less developed and more affordable than Mar del Plata.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family beach town • Multiple jetties • South gets better
Necochea offers quality lefts off its jetty structure, with a shipwreck adding interesting reef dynamics at certain tides. The town is a classic Argentine beach resort with wide beaches and traditional seaside atmosphere.
🚢 Jetty lefts • Shipwreck feature • Classic resort
Quequén is known for its seasonal sandbar quality, with February and March typically producing the best configured banks. The rivermouth influences sand deposition, creating conditions that can be excellent or disappointing depending on recent weather patterns.
📅 Seasonal sandbars • Feb-March peak • Rivermouth influence
Chapadmalal offers variety along its stretch of coast south of Mar del Plata, including some point break setups that work on different swell directions. The area is less developed and sees fewer crowds than the main city beaches.
🔄 Variety of setups • Point break options • Less crowded
Works best with swells from 157° (SSE). Workable range: 135°-227°.
Piratininga is a reliable beach break in Niterói that offers waves for all levels depending on the swell size. The beach is less crowded than nearby Itacoatiara and provides a good warmup option before tackling the more powerful waves down the coast.
🌊 All levels option • Niterói reliability • Less crowded
Works best with swells from 157° (SSE). Workable range: 127°-200°.
Camboinhas offers a mellower alternative to the powerful waves at nearby Itacoatiara. The beach is protected and produces smaller, more manageable waves suitable for beginners and intermediates. A good option when other spots are too big.
🛡️ Protected bay • Beginner option • Itacoatiara alternative
Works best with swells from 157° (SSE). Workable range: 122°-200°.
Copacabana Posto 5 is one of the best surf spots along Rio's most famous beach, producing heavy shorebreak barrels when conditions align. The wave is fast and punishing, but the iconic setting and urban convenience make it worth the battle. Best early morning before crowds descend.
🌴 Iconic Copa • Heavy shorebreak • Urban surf
Praia da Pinheira is a quieter alternative near the famous Guarda do Embaú, offering consistent beach break waves in a less hectic environment. The town has basic tourist infrastructure and provides a more relaxed base for exploring the surrounding surf spots.
😌 Quieter alternative • Near Guarda • Relaxed atmosphere
Ingleses is on the north end of Florianópolis island, catching NE swells that miss the more famous spots to the south. The waves are generally smaller and mellower, making it a good beginner option. The beach has a family-oriented resort atmosphere.
👨‍👩‍👧 Family beach • NE swell option • Beginner friendly
Praia dos Açores sits on the remote Maraú Peninsula, a near-deserted stretch of tropical coastline with quality reef waves and minimal crowds. The journey requires effort - 4x4 vehicles are recommended - but the reward is uncrowded surf in warm, clear water. A small fishing community provides basic supplies.
🏝️ Remote peninsula • Near-deserted • Tropical reef
Les Estagnots is Seignosse's heavyweight contribution to the Landes beachbreak circus—a powerful, hollow wave that sits just north of Hossegor and shares the same Gouf de Capbreton canyon influence. When Atlantic storms light up the coast, this beach produces thick barrels that challenge even experienced surfers. The sandbanks shift constantly but often create defined peaks with genuine tube potential. It's less famous than nearby La Graviere but equally capable of world-class quality.
🌊 Landes power beachbreak • Canyon-enhanced • North of Hossegor
Strong rips on larger swells. Very crowded in summer.
La Nord is Lacanau's contest venue—a quality beachbreak that has hosted the Lacanau Pro since 1979, making it one of Europe's longest-running surf competitions. The wave offers punchy, performance-oriented walls that work across a range of conditions, though it rarely reaches the raw power of the Hossegor zone to the south. The town's surf culture runs deep, with generations of French surfers cutting their teeth on these banks. When it's on, La Nord delivers legitimate QS-level waves.
🏆 Lacanau Pro venue • Since 1979 • French surf tradition
Hosts Lacanau Pro in August. Autumn best for quality.
Powerful rips. Very crowded during contest season.
Easy beach access. Contest venue infrastructure.
Les Cavaliers is the workhorse of Anglet's eleven beaches—a reliable beachbreak that picks up every available swell and delivers consistent sessions year-round. Located between Biarritz and Bayonne, it benefits from both the Basque Country's swell consistency and urban accessibility. The wave works across various conditions, with sandbars that shift but usually offer something rideable. It's where Basque locals go when the famous spots are closed out or maxed, and where visitors discover that Anglet has substance beyond Chambre d'Amour.
🇫🇷 Anglet's workhorse • Year-round consistency • Basque reliability
Works best with swells from 305° (NW). Workable range: 270°-340°.
Ideal size: 1.9m. Too small below 0.7m, too big (closeout) above 3m.
Offshore wind from 80° (E). Offshore range: 45°-115°. Best window: morning.
Autumn for consistency. Spring can be excellent.
Beach access via multiple paths. Urban setting.
Sopelana is Bilbao's primary surf outlet—a powerful beach and reef break accessible via metro that serves the Basque capital's surf-starved population. The wave offers both beach break peaks and reef sections that can produce quality barrels when conditions align. The metro accessibility makes it absurdly crowded, especially on weekends, but the wave's power and potential keep locals coming back. It's proof that even industrial port cities can maintain legitimate surf culture when the coast is just a train ride away.
🚇 Bilbao's metro surf • Urban intensity • Reef & beach combo
Ideal size: 2.2m. Too small below 0.9m, too big (closeout) above 3.5m.
Winter best for size. Spring cleaner conditions.
Rocky reef sections. Crowded metro beach.
Metro-accessible from Bilbao. Multiple beach sections.
Loredo is Cantabria's spacious alternative—a long, exposed beach that offers multiple peaks and room to spread out when nearby Somo gets packed. The wave is consistent and forgiving, making it popular with surf schools and progressing intermediates. The expansive sand allows for exploration and the chance to find uncrowded peaks even on busy weekends. The charming village and less-developed coastline give Loredo a more authentic feel than some of Cantabria's busier surf towns.
🌊 Cantabrian space • Multiple peaks • Somo alternative
Works best with swells from 345° (NNW). Workable range: 310°-20°.
Offshore wind from 140° (SE). Offshore range: 100°-180°. Best window: both.
Consistent autumn swells. Spring alternative.
Surf-Forecast, Cantabrian surf community
Razo is Galicia's heavy-hitting beachbreak—a powerful wave near A Coruña that can handle massive Atlantic swells and transform them into grinding barrels. The beach faces directly into the North Atlantic storm track, making it both consistent and occasionally terrifying. When winter systems light up the coast, Razo produces thick, dredging waves that challenge even experienced surfers. The Celtic-influenced Galician culture, incredible seafood, and relatively uncrowded lineups make this an attractive alternative to the Basque Country scene.
💪 Galician power • Atlantic freight trains • Celtic vibes
Winter peak season. Powerful Atlantic swells.
Strong rips. Rocky sections at low tide.
Beach access via village. Parking available.
Doniños is Galicia's intimidating jewel—a heavy beachbreak that produces some of the region's most powerful waves when large Atlantic swells arrive. The wave can be genuinely scary on big days, with thick lips and grinding barrels that demand respect and experience. The setting is dramatically beautiful, with rugged cliffs and a wild coastline that feels far from civilization. This is not a beginner spot, but for capable surfers seeking uncrowded, powerful waves in a stunning environment, Doniños delivers.
⚡ Galician intensity • Heavy barrels • Wild Atlantic
Ideal size: 2.5m. Too small below 0.9m, too big (closeout) above 4m.
Very powerful on big swells. Rocky hazards.
Beach access from small village. Limited parking.
Baleal is Europe's surf school headquarters—a forgiving, consistent beachbreak that has introduced tens of thousands of people to surfing. The peninsula setting offers multiple beach options depending on wind and swell direction, making it remarkably reliable for beginner conditions. The crowds are intense and the vibe is pure surf tourism, but the infrastructure is excellent and the waves genuinely work. For those learning to surf in Europe, Baleal is the proven starting point.
🏄 Europe's surf school HQ • Beginner paradise • Peninsula consistency
Offshore wind from 80° (E). Offshore range: 30°-130°. Best window: morning.
Winter consistency. Year-round surf camp hub.
Easy beach access. Major surf tourism hub.
Guincho is Lisbon's wild child—a windswept beach near Cascais that serves as the capital's primary surf escape but often delivers more wind than clean waves. The setting inside Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is spectacular, with dramatic dunes and the Sintra mountains looming in the background. When the wind cooperates, Guincho produces quality beachbreak peaks, but it's equally famous as Portugal's premier windsurfing and kitesurfing destination. The dual-sport reality makes it fascinating but sometimes frustrating for wave riders.
💨 Lisbon's windy outlet • Dual-sport beach • Sintra backdrop
Works best with swells from 305° (NW). Workable range: 270°-320°.
Offshore wind from 60° (ENE). Offshore range: 10°-110°. Best window: both.
Winter best. Can be very windy year-round.
Often windy. Popular with Lisbon surfers.
Easy access from Lisbon/Cascais. Large parking area.
Praia de Faro is the Algarve's unlikely surf spot—a south-facing beach that only works during rare winter storms that wrap around from the Atlantic. The consistency is terrible, but when it does work, locals get excited for the novelty of scoring waves just minutes from Faro airport. The warm water, sunny climate, and complete lack of crowds when it's on make it an intriguing anomaly. This is more of a bonus surf option for those already in the region than a destination spot.
🌴 Algarve anomaly • South coast rarity • Airport proximity
Beach island accessed via bridge from Faro.
Varazze is the Italian Riviera's most reliable surf spot—which is to say it works maybe 20 days per year when winter storms in the Gulf of Genoa generate local swells. The wave is a fun, punchy beachbreak that draws the entire Ligurian surf community when conditions align. The Mediterranean setting, Italian coastal charm, and novelty factor make sessions memorable despite the inconsistency. This is Mediterranean surfing reality: you chase forecasts obsessively and celebrate when it actually happens.
🇮🇹 Italian Riviera surf • Winter storms only • Mediterranean rarity
Works best with swells from 235° (SW). Workable range: 200°-270°.
Offshore wind from 30° (NNE). Offshore range: 350°-70°. Best window: both.
Winter storms only. Mediterranean inconsistency.
Beach town access. Tourist infrastructure.
Levanto is where the famous Cinque Terre coastline meets the improbable world of Mediterranean surf culture. This small beach town catches rare winter swells from Ligurian Sea storms and transforms into Italy's most scenic surf spot when conditions align. The waves are inconsistent and fickle, but the setting—dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, world-class Italian food—makes the wait worthwhile. Combine a surf check with hiking the Cinque Terre trails, and you've found the ultimate Mediterranean adventure.
🏔️ Cinque Terre surf • Italian drama • Rare perfection
Ideal size: 2.0m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 2.8m.
Offshore wind from 20° (NNE). Offshore range: 350°-60°. Best window: both.
Winter only. Cinque Terre proximity adds appeal.
Beach access in tourist town. Near Cinque Terre.
Fiumicino is Rome's unlikely surf escape—a beachbreak near the capital's airport that works occasionally when Tyrrhenian Sea storms generate rideable swells. The wave itself is nothing special, but the proximity to Rome and the novelty of surfing near ancient civilization's heart give it appeal. Water quality can be questionable near the Tiber River mouth, but dedicated Roman surfers don't have many alternatives. This is Mediterranean surf pragmatism: you surf what's available when it's available.
🏛️ Rome's surf outlet • Airport beach • Ancient meets ocean
Offshore wind from 80° (E). Offshore range: 40°-120°. Best window: both.
Inconsistent. Water quality concerns near river mouth.
Beach access from airport area. Urban setting.
San Benedetto del Tronto represents the extreme challenge of Adriatic Sea surfing—a beach that might see rideable waves 10 times per winter when rare Bora wind storms generate short-period swells. The Adriatic is a tiny, enclosed sea that simply doesn't produce consistent surf, but determined Italian surfers on the east coast chase every hint of swell with religious devotion. When it works, the novelty and uncrowded reality make it worthwhile. This is surf culture at its most dedicated and optimistic.
🌊 Adriatic improbability • 10 days per year • East coast optimism
Works best with swells from 80° (E). Workable range: 40°-120°.
Kalamaki is Crete's most accessible surf spot—a south-facing beach near Heraklion that catches rare winter swells when Mediterranean storms generate southerly fetch. The waves are inconsistent and often windswept, but when clean conditions align, local surfers celebrate the opportunity to ride Greek waves. The setting combines ancient Minoan civilization history with modern tourism infrastructure. This is Greek island surfing: chase Poseidon forecast obsessively, score occasionally, and appreciate the mythology of it all.
🇬🇷 Cretan possibility • Mediterranean storms • Minoan waves
Offshore wind from 0° (N). Offshore range: 330°-30°. Best window: both.
Winter Mediterranean storms. Spring secondary.
Very inconsistent. Tourist beach in summer.
Falasarna is Greece's most promising surf location—a west-facing beach on Crete's remote western tip that catches more swell than anywhere else in the country. When winter storms track through the Ionian Sea, Falasarna receives northwest groundswell that can produce surprisingly quality waves. The ancient ruins, turquoise Mediterranean water, and genuine remoteness make sessions feel mythical. This is Greek surfing at its most optimistic: limited consistency but maximum beauty and adventure potential.
🏛️ Greece's best exposure • Western Crete • Mythical sessions
Offshore wind from 100° (E). Offshore range: 60°-140°. Best window: both.
Winter northwest storms. Crete's best exposure.
Inconsistent. Remote western Crete location.
Beach access via dirt road. Remote setting.
Agios Nikolaos on Rhodes represents Aegean Sea surfing at its most improbable—a beach that might see rideable waves a handful of times per winter when rare northern storms generate local fetch. The Aegean is even less conducive to surf than other Mediterranean seas, but Greek surfers on Rhodes remain optimistic. When it works, the combination of ancient Greek island charm, crystal water, and complete novelty makes sessions memorable. This is surfing as geographical lottery.
🌊 Aegean improbability • Rhodes rarity • Greek island optimism
Offshore wind from 130° (SE). Offshore range: 90°-170°. Best window: both.
Bol is home to Croatia's famous Zlatni Rat beach—a stunning golden horn of pebbles that shifts shape with currents and storms. While the beach is world-famous, the surf is nearly non-existent, working maybe a handful of times per winter when Bora wind storms generate short-period Adriatic chop. Croatian surfers treat any rideable wave here as a miracle worth celebrating. This is Adriatic reality: stunning beauty, crystal water, ancient Roman history, and almost no surf.
🇭🇷 Golden Horn beach • Adriatic miracle • Croatian optimism
Winter Bora storms only. Extremely rare surf.
Extremely inconsistent. Rocky coastline.
90 minutes drive from SPU airport. Requires boat access ($25/day).
Ferry from Split to Brač, then drive to Bol.
Premantura is Croatia's most exposed surf location—a rocky peninsula at Istria's southern tip that catches slightly more swell than the rest of the Adriatic coast. When winter storms generate southwest fetch, this reef can produce short but quality waves over sharp rock. The dramatic Kamenjak Nature Park setting and Roman ruins add atmosphere to the pursuit of Croatia's rarest commodity: rideable surf. For committed Adriatic surfers, Premantura represents peak possibility.
⚓ Istrian exposure • Rocky reef • Adriatic peak possibility
Offshore wind from 50° (NE). Offshore range: 10°-90°. Best window: both.
Winter only. Istrian peninsula exposure.
Very inconsistent. Sharp rocks and urchins.
Rocky coastline access. Nature park setting.
Scheveningen is the Netherlands' surf headquarters—a consistent North Sea beachbreak that has nurtured Dutch surf culture despite brutally cold water and a coastline that barely faces the right direction. When autumn and winter storms sweep through, this beach produces legitimate waves that draw the entire Dutch surf community. The groynes create defined peaks but also hazards. The determination required to surf in 8°C water builds serious character. Dutch surfing at its most hardcore.
🥶 Netherlands HQ • North Sea grit • Dutch determination
Autumn/winter North Sea storms. Cold water year-round.
Very crowded. Groyne hazards. Cold North Sea water.
Urban beach with full facilities. Train from Amsterdam.
Domburg is Zeeland's cold-water jewel—a more exposed beach than Scheveningen that catches slightly more North Sea swell thanks to its southwestern position. The historic resort town atmosphere combines Dutch coastal charm with serious surf culture. When winter storms light up the North Sea, Domburg can produce powerful, challenging waves that test even experienced surfers. The commitment required to surf here in winter—battling cold, wind, and currents—separates true Dutch surfers from fair-weather riders.
🌊 Zeeland exposure • Historic resort • North Sea power
Winter peak. Zeeland's most exposed beach.
Very cold water. Strong currents. Groyne hazards.
Beach town access. Historic resort village.
Knokke-Heist is Belgium's surf epicenter—a beach resort town that becomes the unlikely gathering point for the country's small but dedicated surf community when North Sea storms deliver rideable waves. The coastline barely faces the right direction and the water is freezing, but Belgian surfers make it work through sheer determination. When it's on, the entire Belgian surf scene shows up, creating a camaraderie born from shared suffering and limited options. This is Benelux surfing at its most committed.
🇧🇪 Belgian surf HQ • North Sea challenge • Cold dedication
Works best with swells from 300° (WNW). Workable range: 280°-340°.
Winter storms. Belgium's most consistent spot.
Cold water. Groyne hazards. Belgian surf scene gathers here.
La Torche is Brittany's heavyweight champion—a powerful, exposed beachbreak that can handle massive Atlantic swells and transform them into world-class barrels. The spot faces directly into the North Atlantic storm track, making it one of France's most consistent waves but also one of its most challenging. When it's firing, La Torche produces thick, hollow waves that have attracted France's best surfers for decades. The Breton coastline's rugged beauty and Celtic cultural heritage add depth to the experience.
💪 Brittany powerhouse • Atlantic freight trains • Celtic heritage
Works best with swells from 280° (W). Workable range: 265°-320°.
Autumn/winter prime. Very exposed to Atlantic swells.
Powerful waves. Strong rips. Rocky sections.
Beach access from parking area. Well-known spot.
Quiberon Peninsula is Brittany's versatile surf destination—a narrow strip of land offering multiple beach options that work in different wind and swell conditions. The west-facing Côte Sauvage catches raw Atlantic power, while the more protected beaches offer alternatives when conditions are too wild. The dramatic rocky coastline, Breton culture, and strategic position make Quiberon a favorite for French surfers seeking consistency with options. When the forecast is uncertain, Quiberon's versatility is invaluable.
🏝️ Breton peninsula • Multiple exposures • Strategic versatility
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 230°-295°.
Autumn prime season. Peninsula offers wind protection options.
Rocky coastline. Strong currents. Popular spot.
Peninsula with multiple beach options. Tourist infrastructure.
Siouville is Normandy's hidden gem—a quality reef break on the Cotentin Peninsula that produces powerful, hollow waves when Atlantic swells wrap into the English Channel. The wave is significantly better than most people expect from Normandy, with genuine barrel potential and consistent form. The water is cold, the reef is sharp, and the region's D-Day history adds gravitas to surf sessions. For surfers exploring northern France beyond the famous southwest coast, Siouville is the revelation.
🌊 Norman surprise • Quality reef • D-Day region waves
Autumn/winter swells. Normandy's most consistent spot.
Sharp reef. Very cold water. D-Day history region.
Beach/reef access. Historic Normandy region.
El Palmar is Andalusia's surf oasis—a long, sandy beach near Cadiz that catches Atlantic swells wrapping around from the northwest before they enter the Mediterranean through the Strait of Gibraltar. The wave offers consistent beachbreak peaks in a region known more for wind sports than surfing. The bohemian village vibe, warm water compared to northern Spain, and reliable winter swells make El Palmar a favorite escape for those seeking Spanish surf without Basque Country crowds.
🌴 Andalusian Atlantic • Near Gibraltar • Warm winter escape
Winter Atlantic swells. Tarifa wind zone.
Beach village access. Near Tarifa kite/wind hub.
Los Caños de Meca sits near Cape Trafalgar—where Admiral Nelson secured British naval supremacy in 1805 and where Atlantic swells make their last stand before entering the Mediterranean. The beach offers powerful, consistent waves in a protected natural park setting with bohemian village charm. The dramatic lighthouse, historical gravitas, and quality beachbreak peaks make this one of Andalusia's most appealing surf destinations when winter swells arrive.
⚓ Cape Trafalgar • Naval history • Atlantic's last stand
Winter prime. Atlantic swells before Mediterranean.
Rocky sections. Strong rips on bigger swells.
Beach access via natural park. Limited development.
Porto Covo is Alentejo's surf secret—a charming fishing village surrounded by stunning beaches and rocky coves that receive the same Atlantic swells as famous spots to the north but with a fraction of the crowds. The coastline offers multiple options for different conditions, from sheltered coves to exposed beach breaks. The slower pace of Alentejo life, incredible seafood, and uncrowded lineups make Porto Covo increasingly popular with surfers seeking Portugal's quality without the scene.
🏝️ Alentejo secret • Multiple breaks • Crowd escape
Works best with swells from 305° (NW). Workable range: 270°-330°.
Winter prime. Less crowded than Peniche/Ericeira.
Rocky coastline. Some spots remote. Medical access limited.
Coastal village access. Multiple beach options.
Zambujeira do Mar is Alentejo's dramatic surf outpost—a village perched on high cliffs overlooking a powerful beach break that can handle massive Atlantic swells. The wave is significantly heavier than most Portuguese beach breaks, with grinding power that challenges even experienced surfers. The remote location, dramatic scenery, and tiny local population keep crowds minimal. This is raw Portuguese coast at its finest, where nature dominates and surfing feels like genuine exploration.
⚡ Alentejo power • Cliffside drama • Raw Atlantic force
Works best with swells from 310° (NW). Workable range: 280°-325°.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🌀 Strong rips, 🏝️ Remote
Very powerful on big swells. Remote location. Strong rips.
Cliff-top village. Beach access via steep path.
La Franqui is the French Mediterranean's wind sports capital—a beach that works far better for kitesurfing and windsurfing than traditional wave riding. When rare winter Tramontane wind storms generate local fetch in the Gulf of Lion, short-period waves occasionally become rideable. The Catalan cultural influence, proximity to Spain, and stunning backdrop of the Pyrenees make it an intriguing location, even if consistent surf is more dream than reality.
💨 French Med wind capital • Rare surf • Pyrenees backdrop
Offshore wind from 320° (NW). Offshore range: 280°-360°. Best window: both.
Winter Tramontane wind storms. Very inconsistent.
Beach access. Famous windsurfing destination.
Famara is Lanzarote's postcard wave—a long, powerful beach break beneath the towering Risco de Famara cliffs that define the island's dramatic northern coast. The wave receives consistent North Atlantic swells year-round and can produce everything from mellow longboard walls to heavy, punchy barrels depending on conditions. The volcanic landscape, warm water, and reliable surf make Famara a European winter escape favorite. The afternoon trade winds keep mornings essential for best quality.
🌋 Lanzarote icon • Risco cliffs • Volcanic paradise
Works best with swells from 320° (NW). Workable range: 305°-350°.
Offshore wind from 130° (SE). Offshore range: 90°-170°. Best window: morning.
Powerful waves. Strong rips. Afternoon trade winds.
Beach access from village. Dramatic cliff backdrop.
El Confital is the Canary Islands' most celebrated wave—a world-class right-hand reef break on the outskirts of Las Palmas that produces long, powerful barrels when winter North Atlantic swells arrive. The wave has been surfed since the 1960s and helped establish the Canaries as a serious surf destination. The local crew is legendary and protective, the reef is unforgiving, and the power is undeniable. When it's on, El Confital stands among Europe's finest waves.
👑 Canaries crown jewel • World-class right • Las Palmas legend
Works best with swells from 330° (NNW). Workable range: 310°-10°.
Needs at least 13s period. Ideal: 17s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 160° (SSE). Offshore range: 120°-200°. Best window: both.
Winter big swells. World-class right when it fires.
🪨 Rocks, 🪸 Sharp reef, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 👊 Localism
Sharp reef. Very powerful. Protective local crew. Urban setting.
Surfline, Canary Islands surf federation
Urban reef near Las Palmas port. Local crew heavy.
Les Sables-d'Olonne is where France's sailing obsession meets its surf culture—a beach town famous as the starting point for the Vendée Globe round-the-world race that also offers consistent Atlantic surf. The waves are beginner-to-intermediate friendly, with multiple peaks along the town beach. While it lacks the raw power of the Landes region to the south, the accessibility, facilities, and maritime culture make it a popular stop on Atlantic coast surf trips.
⛵ Vendée sailing capital • Atlantic consistency • Maritime culture
Autumn best. Famous for Vendée Globe sailing race.
Popular tourist beach. Summer crowds intense.
Urban beach with full facilities. Vendée Globe home port.
Playa de Gandía is Valencia's unlikely surf spot—a beach resort that transforms briefly during rare winter Mediterranean storms when easterly winds generate rideable waves. The consistency is terrible, working maybe 15 days per winter, but the warm climate, Spanish coastal culture, and novelty factor attract those already in the region. This is Mediterranean surf optimism at its peak: check forecasts obsessively, drive hopefully, celebrate wildly when it actually works.
🌴 Valencian surprise • Mediterranean rarity • Winter storms only
Winter Mediterranean storms only. Very inconsistent.
Extremely inconsistent. Tourist beach in summer.
Beach resort access. Major tourist infrastructure.
El Frontón is Gran Canaria's benchmark bodyboard slab, a mutant right-hand reef that detonates over shallow volcanic rock near the north coast. It is a technical, consequence-heavy wave best left to expert bodyboarders and slab specialists, with thick barrels, dry reef sections, and a serious local crew. When NW Atlantic swell and southerly offshore wind line up, it becomes one of Europe's most spectacular heavy-water venues.
Gran Canaria slab • Expert bodyboard wave • NW swell magnet
Works best with swells from 330° (NNW). Workable range: 320°-40°.
Offshore wind from 160° (SSE). Offshore range: 135°-180°. Best window: morning.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 👥 Crowded, 🪨 Rocks
Breaks in front of a cliff. Mutant thick barrels. Volcanic lava reef.
Praia Grande is Sintra's exposed Atlantic beach break, a consistent stretch of sand that picks up plenty of west and northwest swell. The peaks shift with the banks, offering everything from manageable walls for intermediates to hollow, punchy sections when autumn and winter groundswell arrives. Easy access from Lisbon and Cascais makes it a practical strike option, though wind exposure means timing is everything.
Sintra beach break • Consistent Atlantic exposure • Easy Lisbon access
Works best with swells from 295° (WNW). Workable range: 270°-320°.
Offshore wind from 110° (ESE). Offshore range: 90°-135°. Best window: morning.
Fajã de Santo Cristo is a remote right-hand point on São Jorge in the Azores, set beneath cliffs and reached through a mix of island roads, trails, and local boat options. The wave wraps over rock with long, clean walls when North Atlantic swell finds the right angle. Its isolation is part of the appeal, but the logistics, weather and limited services mean it should be treated as a proper island mission rather than a casual beach stop.
Azores point break • Remote São Jorge setup • Logistics matter
Offshore wind from 110° (ESE). Offshore range: 90°-135°. Best window: both.
Only accessible by foot trail or boat. Remote volcanic reef.
Fly or ferry to São Jorge, then use local road access and foot/boat options depending on conditions; Horta is an inter-island gateway, not a simple drive.
Carcavelos is Lisbon's urban performance beach break, a powerful sandbar setup that can produce fast barrels when west swell and light offshore wind line up. It is one of Portugal's most accessible quality waves, sitting close to the train line and city center, which also means crowds arrive quickly. The wave is highly bank-dependent but can be excellent through autumn and winter.
Lisbon beach barrels • Fast sandbanks • Crowded when good
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 240°-290°.
Lisbon beachbreak favoring W-WNW winter swells and north offshore winds.
Surf-Forecast / Capitulo Perfeito cross-reference
E-Bay is a heavy, hollow left-hander in the Mentawai Islands that breaks over sharp reef with two distinct rock sections. The wave produces excellent tube time in stunning emerald-green water, making it a photographer's dream. Located in the North Pagai island group, it picks up consistent SW swell during the April-October season and benefits from light easterly trade winds. The wave is best at medium tide and requires intermediate-to-advanced skills due to the shallow reef and rock hazards.
🌊 Emerald Mentawai barrel • Two rock sections • Heavy tube time
Offshore wind from 67° (ENE). Offshore range: 37°-97°. Best window: morning.
Best Apr-Oct (dry season, SE trades offshore). Swells year-round but wet season brings onshore winds.
Charter boat from Padang (~10hr) or speedboat (~4hr)
Scarecrows is an often-overlooked left reef break in North Sipora, Mentawai Islands, that picks up significant swell and delivers bowling waves with solid barrel sections. The wave offers big carving opportunities on the outside before transitioning into hollow inside sections. Its relatively low profile among the Mentawai lineup means fewer boats anchor here, providing a more peaceful session. Best surfed at mid to high tide with light easterly winds.
🌊 Hidden Mentawai gem • Bowling barrels • Uncrowded lineup
Pitstops is a playful right-hander with a sand and reef bottom in the Playgrounds zone of the Mentawai Islands. The wave is more accessible and forgiving than its neighbours like Kandui and Rifles, making it a great option for intermediate surfers looking for fun tropical waves. It offers rippable walls with occasional tube sections and works well on smaller to medium swells. The Playgrounds area is one of the most wave-rich zones in all of Indonesia.
🌊 Playgrounds fun right • Sand-reef bottom • All-level waves
Works best with swells from 230° (SW). Workable range: 210°-250°.
Offshore wind from 112° (ESE). Offshore range: 82°-142°. Best window: morning.
🌀 Strong rips, 🪸 Sharp reef, 🚶 Difficult access
Hideaways is a reliable swell magnet in the Playgrounds zone of the Mentawai Islands, offering plenty of barrel opportunities on a quality left reef break. While less famous than neighbouring Kandui Left and Rifles, Hideaways delivers consistent waves with good tube riding potential. The break is a great alternative when the more renowned spots are crowded, providing a quieter session in one of the world's most wave-rich areas.
🌊 Secret Mentawai left • Barrel opportunities • Less crowds
Icelands (also known as Omak Tidur) is the premier big-wave location in the Mentawai Islands, capable of handling swells up to 20+ feet. Located in North Sipora, this powerful left reef break only wakes up on the largest W-SW swells and rewards expert surfers with massive, hollow waves. The wave is strictly for experienced big-wave riders, as wipeouts are extremely consequential on the deep-water reef. One of the most awe-inspiring waves in all of Indonesia when conditions align.
🌋 Mentawai big wave • 20ft+ faces • Expert-only reef
Works best with swells from 245° (WSW). Workable range: 230°-260°.
Ideal size: 4.3m. Too small below 2.4m, too big (closeout) above 6.1m.
Bintangs is a short, intense right-hander that breaks over an extremely shallow slab reef in South Sipora, Mentawai Islands. The wave demands technical precision, with a critical take-off leading into a quick, deep barrel over dry reef. Located near the iconic HT's, Bintangs offers a different challenge—shorter but more intense and consequential. Expert tube riders will find it exhilarating when the swell and tide align perfectly.
💥 Shallow Mentawai slab • Technical tube ride • Expert barrels
Offshore wind from 292° (WNW). Offshore range: 262°-322°. Best window: morning.
Rags Right is a super-shallow right-hand barrel in South Pagai, Mentawai Islands, offering multiple barrel sections with the potential for utter perfection. The wave breaks over an extremely shallow reef shelf, creating a critical take-off zone and fast, pitching tubes. When conditions align with solid SW swell and light winds, Rags Right produces some of the most photogenic barrels in the archipelago. Expert-level surfing skills are mandatory.
🌊 South Pagai perfection • Multi-section barrels • Super shallow
Works best with swells from 205° (SSW). Workable range: 190°-220°.
Offshore wind from 315° (NW). Offshore range: 285°-345°. Best window: morning.
Burgerworld is the most exposed break in the Mentawai Islands, picking up swell from every direction and sculpting quality right-hand tubes even during the low season. Located in the Playgrounds zone, the wave breaks over a shallow reef and can hold well on bigger days, offering consistent barrels when other spots may be flat. The diversity of swell angles it handles makes it one of the most reliable waves in the area.
🌊 Most exposed Mentawai • Low-season barrels • Sculpted right tubes
Works best with swells from 205° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-230°.
Lighthouse is the southernmost surf break in the Mentawai Islands chain, located in South Pagai. It needs a solid south swell to light up but rewards with very long, rippable walls that allow for extended rides with numerous turn sections. The wave faces more south than other Mentawai spots, picking up S-SW swells that miss breaks further north. Less visited due to its remote location, offering a more solitary surf experience.
🌊 Southernmost Mentawai • Long rippable walls • Remote solitude
Suicides Right is a fast, shallow barrel in South Sipora, Mentawai Islands, located near the legendary HT's. The wave breaks over an unforgiving reef shelf, creating quick, intense tube rides that demand expert-level surfing and precise wave knowledge. Named for the consequences of mistiming, this right-hander is strictly for experienced barrel riders who understand the risks of shallow Indo reef breaks.
💥 Near HT's • Fast shallow barrel • Expert-only commitment
Nusa Dua is a quality right reef break on the east side of Bali's Bukit Peninsula. The wave works best during the wet season (November-March) when westerly winds blow offshore, creating clean faces on the S-SE swell. It provides a good alternative to the crowded Bukit lefts, with less competition and a more relaxed atmosphere. The nearby resort area offers excellent infrastructure and easy access.
🌊 East Bukit right • Wet season performer • Less crowds than Bukit lefts
Best wet season (Nov-Mar) with NW offshore winds. Also works in dry season.
Apocalypse is an epic tubing left reef break on Panaitan Island in the Sunda Strait, accessible only by boat charter from the Java coast. When a solid SW swell hits this remote island, the wave produces unforgettable barrel rides over shallow reef in a pristine tropical setting. The isolation and boat-access-only nature of the break means uncrowded sessions in one of Indonesia's wildest coastal environments, with the Ujung Kulon National Park as the stunning backdrop.
🌊 Remote Panaitan barrel • Boat access only • Pristine jungle setting
🪸 Sharp reef, 🚶 Difficult access, 🏝️ Remote
150 minutes drive from CGK airport. Requires boat access ($150/day).
Boat charter required into Panaitan/Ujung Kulon; arrange permits, captain, and overnight logistics from West Java.
Cimaja is a reliable left point break on the south coast of West Java, offering consistent waves and a welcoming local surf community. As the most accessible quality surf spot from Jakarta (about 3-4 hours drive), it serves as a gateway to Indonesian surf culture for many visiting surfers. The wave works on a range of SW swells and produces fun, workable walls suitable for all skill levels. The village atmosphere is genuine and laid-back.
🏄 West Java point • Jakarta's closest quality wave • Welcoming community
Offshore wind from 135° (SE). Offshore range: 105°-165°. Best window: morning.
Ombak Tujuh, meaning 'Seven Waves,' is a quality left reef break in the remote Ujung Kulon area of West Java. The wave breaks in a pristine setting near one of Indonesia's most important national parks, home to the critically endangered Javan rhinoceros. Access requires significant travel from Jakarta but rewards with uncrowded lineups and quality waves in an untouched tropical environment.
🌊 Seven Waves • Remote West Java • Ujung Kulon wilderness
Ekas Inside is a protected bay break on the southeast coast of Lombok that offers quality left reef waves with more consistency than the famously fickle Desert Point nearby. The bay setting provides shelter from the prevailing winds, creating cleaner conditions for longer periods of the day. With a range of tide stages working and less extreme swell requirements, it's a more accessible option for intermediate-to-advanced surfers exploring Lombok.
🌊 Protected Lombok bay • Consistent lefts • Desert Point alternative
Offshore wind from 337° (NNW). Offshore range: 307°-7°. Best window: morning.
Mawi is a powerful A-frame reef break on Lombok's south coast that produces fast lefts and rights depending on the swell direction and tide. The wave breaks over a shallow reef shelf with considerable power, creating hollow sections that test even experienced surfers. Located about an hour from Kuta Lombok, the break sits in a beautiful crescent bay with dramatic coastal scenery.
🌊 Lombok A-frame • Powerful reef break • Fast lefts and rights
Offshore wind from 22° (NNE). Offshore range: 352°-52°. Best window: morning.
Grupuk Bay hosts multiple surf breaks accessible by local boat, with Don Don being one of the standout lefts in the collection. The bay setting on Lombok's south coast provides a sheltered environment with several reef breaks offering different characteristics depending on swell and tide. The local boat shuttle system from Grupuk village makes access easy and affordable, creating a surf camp atmosphere popular with traveling surfers.
🌊 Lombok bay breaks • Boat access • Surf camp vibes
Road access varies by season; local guide/boat support is often used when the track or tide window is poor.
Super Suck is one of Indonesia's most intense barrel rides—a lippy, narrow tube that sucks hard off an extremely shallow reef on West Sumbawa's south coast. The wave is incredibly fickle, requiring specific W-SW swell direction to wrap into the break, but when conditions align, it produces world-class hollow lefts that rank among the best barrels east of the Mentawais. Located near Maluk, the wave is strictly for expert surfers.
💥 West Sumbawa slab • Extreme barrel • Fickle but world-class
WSL QS venue. Ridiculously fun right for high-performance surfing. Limestone backdrop.
🌊 West Sumbawa right • Pure fun • Tropical Indo
Offshore wind from 45° (NE). Offshore range: 15°-75°. Best window: morning.
Lakey Pipe is a fast, hollow left reef break sitting right next to the famous Lakey Peak in East Sumbawa. The wave is gnarlier and more intense than its neighbour, producing pitching tubes over shallow reef that make it a favourite among bodyboarders and tube-riding specialists. When solid SW swell hits, Lakey Pipe lights up with barrel after barrel, offering one of the heaviest rides in the region.
🌊 Heavier than Lakey Peak • Fast hollow left • Bodyboarder favourite
Periscopes is a long, rippable right reef break in East Sumbawa that produces tight barrels over a safe reef platform. The wave works best at high tide and provides a quality alternative to Lakey Peak, offering longer rides with good barrel and turn sections. Its exposure to dry season SE trade winds can cause afternoon blow-out, making morning sessions essential for clean conditions.
🌊 Long Sumbawa right • Tight barrels • Morning glass sessions
Nungas is a long left reef break in East Sumbawa offering rides of 200+ meters. The wave provides a fun and accessible surfing experience near Lakey Peak, with long walls perfect for carving turns and the occasional barrel section. It's one of the more user-friendly waves in the Hu'u area, making it popular with intermediate surfers looking for longer rides in warm tropical water.
🌊 200m+ left rides • Fun Sumbawa waves • Near Lakey Peak
Indicators is a world-class right reef break at Lagundri Bay in South Nias, located around the point from the famous Sorake Beach. The wave produces incredible barrels when a solid SW swell pushes in at high tide, but becomes extremely dangerous at low tide when the reef is exposed. The rising high tide is the sweet spot—when Indicators turns on, it rivals any right-hander in Indonesia for raw barrel quality.
🌊 Nias barrel right • High tide perfection • Dangerous low tide reef
SW swell season (Apr-Oct), SE trade winds offshore
Fly to Gunungsitoli via Medan, drive to south coast
Bawa is Indonesia's answer to Hawaii's Sunset Beach—a massive right-hand barrel machine in the Hinako Islands off the coast of Nias. The wave handles enormous swells, producing thundering rights that only advanced and expert surfers should attempt. Paired with nearby Asu (a left that works on opposite wind), surfers can ride both breaks in the same day depending on wind shifts, making the Hinako Islands an incredibly versatile surf destination.
🌊 Indo Sunset Beach • Huge right barrels • Hinako Islands power
Unknown minutes drive from GNS airport. Requires boat access ($100/day).
Rockstar is a flashy right reef break on the east coast of Nias, about 25km up the coast from the famous Lagundri Bay. The wave offers a fun alternative to the main bay breaks, with quality barrel sections and more room to move in the lineup. Less traveled than Sorake and Lagundri, it rewards those willing to make the extra drive with uncrowded sessions and tropical scenery.
🌊 East Nias right • Fun alternative • 25km from Lagundri
300m ride through barrels. Private wave — NIHI resort only, max 10 surfers. One of the best lefts east of Desert Point. Holds any size.
🌊 West Sumba left • Epic long rides • Tropical Indo
Tarimbang Right is probably Sumba's most surfed wave, offering fast hollow sections that transition into softer shoulders, making it accessible to surfers of all abilities. Located on East Sumba's wild south coast, the wave breaks over a coral reef in warm, clear water with dramatic cliff scenery as the backdrop. It's the go-to wave for most visiting surfers, combining quality with accessibility in a stunning tropical setting.
🌊 Sumba's most popular • All abilities • Wild east coast setting
Pero Lefts is a highly consistent left reef break on West Sumba's south coast that holds as big as it gets. The swell refracts around the headland creating big bowl sections with ample tube time, making this one of Sumba's most rewarding waves for experienced surfers. The wave's consistency means it's rarely flat during the April-October swell season, providing a reliable option when exploring this remote island.
🌊 Sumba's most consistent • Big bowl barrels • Holds any size
Pantai Morosi is a quality left reef break around the headland from the famous Nihiwatu (Occy's Left) on West Sumba. The wave offers similar S-SW swell exposure but without the exclusive resort access restrictions, making it accessible to free-roaming surfers exploring Sumba's wild south coast. The wave works across a range of conditions and provides a good alternative when NIHI Sumba's break is off-limits.
🌊 Near Nihiwatu • No resort restrictions • West Sumba quality
The Hole is a deep-water right reef break on East Sumba's south coast featuring a large lineup with multiple take-off areas. The wave produces peaky bowls with considerable power, offering a different experience to the neighbouring Tarimbang Right. Its deep-water nature means it handles bigger swells better, creating powerful, open-face waves that reward advanced surfers with driving turns and occasional barrel sections.
🌊 Deep-water Sumba right • Peaky bowls • Multiple peaks
Rope Burns is a world-class right reef break that peels along dramatic sea cliffs on East Sumba's coast. The wave produces barreling rights over sharp, shallow reef with serious consequences for wipeouts—hence the name. When solid S-SW swell hits, Rope Burns delivers some of the best tube rides east of Sumbawa. Expert-only conditions and remote access keep crowds to a minimum.
🌊 Cliff-side barrels • World-class when on • Expert-only Sumba
T-Land (also known as Nembrala or Besialu) is one of Indonesia's longest left reef breaks, offering rides of 400+ meters through multiple named sections—The Point, Steeple, Magic Mountain, and Inner Tubes. Located on Rote Island, the most southerly inhabited island in Indonesia, it picks up every S-SW swell that rolls through the Indian Ocean. The wave works across all tides and handles swells up to 15 feet, making it one of the most versatile and rewarding lefts in the country.
🌊 400m+ Indo left • Four named sections • Rote Island perfection
Works best with swells from 212° (SSW). Workable range: 195°-230°.
Suckies is a high-quality right-hander breaking on an outer reef pass north of Nemberala village on Rote Island. The wave produces clean, hollow barrels that suck over the reef shelf, offering quality tube rides for experienced surfers. It pairs well with T-Land, providing a right-hand alternative when the swell direction shifts slightly. Accessed by short boat ride from Nemberala.
🌊 Rote outer reef right • Hollow barrels • T-Land companion
Boa is a quality right reef break on Rote Island that produces standout barrel sessions when conditions align. The key to scoring Boa is timing—it needs a specific combination of swell direction and tide to fire, making a local surf guide invaluable. When it's on, Boa delivers multiple barrel opportunities per wave, rivaling any right-hander in the eastern Indonesian archipelago.
🌊 Rote hidden right • Timing is everything • Many barrels per wave
Right-hander accessible by boat. Less crowded alternative.
🌊 Rote Island right • Reef right • Tropical Indo
20 minutes drive from RTI airport. Requires boat access ($75/day).
Boat or arranged local transfer recommended; notes mention island/reef access and logistics should be confirmed before travel.
Way Jambu, dubbed the 'Sumatran Pipeline,' is one of the most perfect and heavy waves in Indonesia. The wave features a critical take-off into a top-to-bottom barrel with Kirra-like run-through potential over shallow reef. Located in the Krui region of South Sumatra, it's the crown jewel of a coastline packed with world-class breaks. Expert-only surfing with serious consequences for mistakes on the shallow reef shelf.
💥 Sumatran Pipeline • Kirra-style barrels • Expert-only heaviness
Ujung Bocur (also known as Karang Nyimbor) is the best and most consistent wave in the Krui region of South Sumatra, offering rides of 200-400 meters along a reef and point break. The wave has hosted WSL events and delivers long walls with barrel sections that accommodate a range of skill levels. Located on the Tanjung Setia headland, it picks up SW swell consistently during the April-October season with SE trade winds blowing offshore.
🏄 Krui's best wave • 200-400m rides • WSL event venue
Mandiri Beach is possibly the best beach break in all of Indonesia, producing triangular peaks that detonate with thick barrels on the sandy bottom. Located in the Krui region of South Sumatra, it works best during off-season or smaller swells when the sand banks are well-formed. The morning offshore winds create perfect conditions for barrel hunting on shifting peaks. A rare gem for beach break enthusiasts in a country known for its reefs.
🏖️ Indonesia's best beach break • Thick sand barrels • Morning offshores
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 205°-245°.
The Peak is a short, perfect right tube in the Krui region of South Sumatra that follows a simple formula—drop in, get barreled, repeat. The wave needs bigger swell to start working but when it does, it offers compact, intense barrel rides over shallow reef. Located among the cluster of quality breaks near Way Jambu and Ujung Bocur, it provides a right-hand option in a region dominated by lefts.
🌊 Short perfect right • Drop in, get barreled • Krui region gem
Honey Smacks is a steep, fast left barrel in the Krui region of South Sumatra, popular with bodyboarders due to its intense, close-out nature. The wave features a critical drop into a heavy barrel section that demands commitment and precise timing. Located near Way Jambu, it adds another world-class break to what may be the densest concentration of quality surf on Sumatra's west coast.
🌊 Krui heavy left • Steep fast barrel • Bodyboarder favourite
One of the area's premiere waves. Right over coral reef. An hour from most camps. Worth the drive.
🌊 North Krui right • Reef right • Tropical Indo
Krui Left has been compared to Bali's Bingin for good reason—it produces mechanical, perfect barrel rides over shallow reef when solid swell wraps into the break. Located in the heart of the Krui region of South Sumatra, the wave needs bigger swell to work but delivers quality tube time when conditions align. A left-hander's dream in warm, tropical water with a laid-back village atmosphere onshore.
🌊 Bingin of Sumatra • Mechanical barrels • Needs big swell
Banana Island Left is a fickle but heavy left reef break accessed by 15-minute boat ride from Krui on the south coast of Sumatra. The wave is a tube master's playground when it fires, producing sucky, pitching barrels over shallow reef in warm, clear water. Its fickle nature—requiring specific off-season W winds—keeps crowds minimal and rewards patient surfers who time their visit right. Expert surfing skills are essential.
🌊 Fickle Krui barrel • Boat access • Expert tube masters only
🪸 Sharp reef, 🚶 Difficult access, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote
240 minutes drive from TKG airport. Requires boat access ($80/day).
Boat access to Banana Island is required from the Krui/South Sumatra coast.
Shipwrecks is an epic right reef break off Nusa Lembongan, producing quality tubes in crystal-clear water just a short boat ride from mainland Bali. The wave breaks over a shallow coral reef and works best during the dry season (April-October) with SE trade winds providing offshore conditions. The stunning visibility of the water makes it a favourite for surf photographers, and the proximity to Bali's amenities makes it an accessible world-class wave.
🌊 Lembongan barrels • Crystal-clear tubes • Easy access from Bali
Unknown minutes drive from DPS airport. Requires boat access ($15/day).
Reach Nusa Lembongan by ferry/fast boat from Bali, then use local boat or reef access depending on tide.
Lacerations is a fast, shallow reef break between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan that fully lives up to its name—the razor-sharp reef can inflict serious cuts on any surfer who falls in the wrong spot. The wave offers both lefts and rights depending on swell direction, with the left being more hollow and the right offering longer walls. Booties are essential, and the break rewards confident, committed surfers with quality waves in a stunning island setting.
🌊 Sharp reef, sharp waves • Both lefts and rights • Booties essential
Reach Nusa Ceningan/Lembongan by ferry from Bali; local boats and tide timing matter over the shallow reef.
Playgrounds on Nusa Lembongan is a user-friendly A-frame reef break in stunning crystal-clear water, perfect for intermediate surfers looking for tropical waves without the intensity of nearby Shipwrecks. The wave offers both lefts and rights on a friendlier reef shelf, with consistent swell exposure during the dry season. It's one of the most photogenic surf spots in the Bali area, with turquoise water and white sand providing a picture-perfect backdrop.
🌊 Lembongan A-frame • Crystal-clear water • Perfect for improvers
Reach Nusa Lembongan by ferry from Bali, then short local transfer or boat access to the Playgrounds area.
Barreling right on remote Simeulue. One of the best waves north of the Mentawais.
🌊 Simeulue Island right • Barrel rides • Tropical Indo
Tea Bags is another quality barrel on Simeulue Island, offering right reef break tube rides in a setting that is far less explored than the neighbouring Mentawai Islands. The wave provides a good alternative to Dylan's Right when the swell direction shifts, and the island's remote nature ensures uncrowded lineups. Simeulue is gradually gaining recognition as a quality surf destination for experienced surfers seeking adventure.
🌊 Simeulue barrel • Less explored • Quality right reef
The Peak on Simeulue Island is a picturesque A-frame reef setup that works on a range of swell directions, providing both lefts and rights depending on conditions. The break offers a more accessible wave compared to the heavier barrels of Dylan's Right and Tea Bags, making it a good option for intermediate-to-advanced surfers exploring this remote island. Clear tropical water and a beautiful reef setting complete the experience.
🌊 Simeulue A-frame • Range of swell angles • Picturesque setting
Treasure Island is a long, barreling right reef break and one of the standout waves in the remote Banyak Islands chain off northern Sumatra. The wave offers quality barrel rides with a consistency that makes it the go-to spot for surf charters visiting the area. The Banyak archipelago provides a raw, frontier-style surf experience far removed from the more established Mentawai circuit, with warm water and uncrowded lineups year-round.
🌊 Banyak's best right • Long barrels • Frontier surf adventure
Unknown minutes drive from SQN airport. Requires boat access ($80/day).
Lolok Point is a long, barreling left in the Banyak Islands that pairs perfectly with nearby Treasure Island for wind shifts. When the wind swings from east to west or vice versa, surfers can simply paddle across the channel to surf the opposite-facing break. This versatility makes the Lolok Point/Treasure Island combo one of the most practical surf setups in Indonesia's outer islands.
🌊 Banyak left • Pairs with Treasure Island • Wind-shift versatility
Joysticks is the most consistent spot in the Banyak Islands, offering a multi-sectioned wave with both tubing and whackable sections. The A-frame nature of the break provides options on both sides of the peak, making it versatile for different surf styles. Its consistency means it's rarely flat when swell is in the region, serving as a reliable fallback when other breaks aren't working.
🌊 Banyak's most consistent • Multi-section A-frame • Always something to ride
Premier left in the Telo chain. Hollow and mechanical on its day.
🌊 Telo Islands left • Hollow perfection • Tropical Indo
World class right in the Telos. Named after the giant trevally in the lineup.
🌊 Telo Islands right • World-class • Tropical Indo
The Office is a consistent left reef break in the Telo Islands that handles a range of swell sizes, making it a reliable go-to wave during charter trips to this remote island chain. Less heavy than nearby GT's, it offers long walls with barrel sections that suit intermediate-to-advanced surfers. The name reflects its status as the 'workplace' for visiting surfers—a dependable wave you can always clock in to.
🌊 Telo's reliable left • Range of swell sizes • Always open for business
Weetabix is a quality left reef break on the under-explored south coast of western Flores, facing the Indian Ocean and picking up S-SW groundswell. Flores is one of Indonesia's great surf frontiers—the south coast faces the same swell window as Bali and Sumbawa but sees a fraction of the surfers. The wave offers quality reef break surfing in a stunning setting near the famous Komodo National Park area.
🌊 Flores frontier left • Under-explored south coast • Near Komodo
Nangamunga is an emerging surf spot on the south coast of western Flores, offering good potential for quality reef breaks. The wave picks up the same S-SW swell as Bali and Sumbawa but the coastline remains largely unexplored by the surfing world. First principles suggest excellent potential—a south-facing coast on a large island intercepting Indian Ocean groundswell with offshore winds in the dry season.
🌊 Emerging Flores spot • Unexplored potential • South coast reef
Waigeo Lefts is pure expedition surfing territory in Raja Ampat, West Papua—one of the most biodiverse marine environments on Earth. The wave picks up NW monsoon swell during the November-March season, with east-facing reefs providing rideable waves when conditions align. This is true frontier surfing, combining world-class diving and marine biodiversity with the raw adventure of surfing completely uncharted breaks in the far east of Indonesia.
🌊 Raja Ampat expedition • NW monsoon surf • World's most biodiverse waters
Works best with swells from 335° (NNW). Workable range: 310°-360°.
Offshore wind from 202° (SSW). Offshore range: 172°-232°. Best window: morning.
Unknown minutes drive from SOQ airport. Requires boat access ($300/day).
Wakte Island Right is an attractive right reef break near Kota Sarmi on the north coast of Papua, receiving NE swell during the short November-March season. This is true frontier territory—one of the least-explored surf zones in Indonesia, offering quality reef breaks with zero crowd pressure. The remoteness and short surf season make this a destination for dedicated surf explorers with flexible schedules.
🌊 Papua frontier right • Zero crowds • Short NE swell season
Works best with swells from 45° (NE). Workable range: 30°-60°.
Unknown minutes drive from SOQ airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
Kolbano is a left reef break on the south-facing coast of West Timor, intercepting Indian Ocean groundswell that wraps around the southern Indonesian archipelago. The wave should be offshore in the NE trade winds during the dry season, providing clean conditions on S-SW swell. As one of the least-surfed quality breaks in Indonesia, it offers genuine discovery potential for adventurous surfers willing to explore beyond the beaten track.
🌊 West Timor discovery • South-facing reef • Off the beaten track
Green Bowl is a quality left reef break on the east side of Bali's Bukit Peninsula that picks up south swell and works best during the wet season with W-NW offshore winds. The spot is less crowded than the famous Bukit lefts due to its remote access down a long staircase carved into the cliff. The effort of the climb is rewarded with an uncrowded lineup, clear water, and quality waves in a beautiful cove setting.
🌊 Hidden Bukit left • Cliff staircase access • Wet season performer
🪸 Sharp reef, 🚶 Difficult access, 👥 Crowded, 🏝️ Remote
Serangan is a quality right-hander on Serangan Island (Turtle Island) in South Bali, offering hollow waves that work across a range of conditions. The break picks up S-SSW swell and benefits from W-NW offshore winds during the wet season, providing a year-round surfing option. Less crowded than the main Bukit breaks, Serangan delivers good value sessions with consistent quality.
🌊 Turtle Island right • Hollow and consistent • Less crowds than Bukit
Medewi is a long left-hand point break on Bali's west coast, offering the island's best longboard experience with rides of 200+ meters on good swells. The wave peels slowly along a cobblestone point, creating smooth walls perfect for nose-riding and classic longboard surfing. The atmosphere is notably more relaxed than the frenetic Bukit Peninsula, with a quieter scene and beautiful sunset views over the Bali Strait.
🏄 Bali's best longboard wave • 200m+ rides • Mellow west coast vibes
Temples is the section of Uluwatu's reef further up from the main Peak area, offering long lefts with fewer surfers than the iconic main break. The wave provides quality walls for carving and the occasional barrel section, with the added benefit of slightly less intensity and competition. At mid-to-high tide, Temples connects with the main Uluwatu sections for extended rides along the cliff-lined reef.
🌊 Extended Uluwatu • Less crowds than Peak • Long left walls
Nipussi is an easy-going left reef break on Siberut Island in the Mentawai chain, set against a beautiful tropical backdrop. The wave is one of the more accessible breaks in the Mentawais, making it ideal for intermediate surfers who want to experience the islands' renowned water quality and scenery without the intensity of expert-level breaks. A great warm-up or cool-down spot during Mentawai charter trips.
🌊 Siberut easy left • Great intermediate wave • Tropical backdrop
Playgrounds Left (also known as Karangbat, Karamba, Bikinis, G-strings, or Duckies) is one of several world-class breaks in the spectacular Playgrounds zone of the Mentawai Islands. The area hosts so many quality waves they've earned multiple names from different surf camps and charter boats. The left offers barrel opportunities on solid SW swell with the typical Mentawai package—warm water, tropical setting, and consistent waves.
🌊 Many names, one zone • Playgrounds barrels • Mentawai spectacle
4 Bobs is a fun all-round right reef break in the Playgrounds zone of the Mentawai Islands, producing almond-shaped barrels and good turn sections. The wave is more accessible than the heavy Kandui and Rifles breaks nearby, offering two-turn combos and fun barrel opportunities for intermediate-to-advanced surfers. A great option for variety during Mentawai charter trips.
🌊 Playgrounds fun right • Almond barrels • Two-turn combos
Pistols is a super fun right reef break in the Playgrounds zone of the Mentawai Islands, offering short but good barrels followed by nice turn sections. The wave is one of the more forgiving breaks in the area, making it popular during charter trips as a warm-up or wind-down session. Consistent SW swell and easterly trade winds create regular surfable conditions during the April-October season.
🌊 Playgrounds right • Short barrels, nice turns • Fun warm-up wave
Seven Palms is a quality right reef break in North Sipora that is often surfed alone, overlooked by charter boats heading to more famous nearby spots like Telescopes and Scarecrows. The wave picks up W swell and works best at mid tide with light easterly winds. Its low profile in the Mentawai hierarchy means empty lineups and peaceful sessions—a rare commodity in an increasingly busy surf zone.
🌊 Overlooked Sipora right • Often surfed alone • Quality solitude
Works best with swells from 255° (WSW). Workable range: 240°-270°.
Cobra is a short, hollow slab just up the reef from Lance's Left in South Sipora, Mentawai Islands. The wave produces quick, intense barrel rides that demand expert-level tube riding and precise positioning. Its proximity to the iconic Lance's Right and Lance's Left makes it a convenient third option in the HT's area, offering a different character with its shorter, more intense barrel.
💥 Near HT's • Short hollow slab • Quick intense barrels
Tropicals is the softest, most forgiving wave in West Sumbawa, breaking as both lefts and rights on a beautiful white sand beach. The headland provides shelter from certain wind directions, creating a protected zone that often stays clean when other breaks are blown out. It's the go-to spot for beginner-to-intermediate surfers in the area, or for anyone seeking a mellow session in a stunning tropical setting.
🌊 West Sumbawa's mellows • White sand beach • Sheltered from wind
Cobblestones is a small channel break near Lakey Peak in East Sumbawa, offering both lefts and rights on a compact reef. The wave provides a fun option when the main breaks are too crowded or too big, with shorter rides and a more relaxed atmosphere. It's one of several satellite breaks in the Hu'u area that extends the surfable options beyond the famous Lakey Peak and Lakey Pipe.
🌊 Near Lakey Peak • Fun channel break • Lefts and rights
Sebatu sits outside Lagundri Bay in South Nias, facing the full Indian Ocean swell window and producing serious big-wave conditions. The wave is for committed big-wave chargers only, with heavy, hollow faces that can exceed 15 feet. Its open-ocean exposure means it picks up every swell that the bay misses, offering a completely different challenge to the point breaks inside Lagundri.
🌋 Nias big wave • Outside the bay • Heavy and hollow
Works best with swells from 220° (SW). Workable range: 180°-260°.
Walo Hiu is the most extreme left on Nias, producing barrel rides up to 10 seconds long in one of the most remote settings on the island. Accessing the wave requires a 30-minute jungle walk through dense tropical forest, adding to the adventure and ensuring virtually no crowds. The wave handles enormous swells and delivers world-class tube rides for expert surfers willing to earn them.
🌊 Nias's heaviest left • 10-second barrels • 30min jungle walk
Works best with swells from 215° (SW). Workable range: 180°-250°.
8-Frame is an excellent tube-riding right reef break near Hilistaro village on Nias's east coast. The wave offers quality barrel rides in a less-visited part of the island, providing a good alternative for surfers looking to explore beyond the famous Lagundri Bay area. The east coast exposure picks up different swell angles, extending the surfable conditions on the island.
🌊 East Nias tube right • Near Hilistaro • Less-visited quality
Works best with swells from 215° (SW). Workable range: 190°-240°.
Reverse G-Land is a quality long right reef/point break on the east coast of Java that effectively mirrors the famous G-Land left across the bay. The wave breaks along a similar reef structure but in the opposite direction, producing long rides with barrel sections and open walls. Difficult access and the requirement for off-season winds (November-April) keep this wave uncrowded and preserve its frontier character.
🌊 G-Land's mirror image • Long right point • Off-season secret
Thurso East is Scotland's crown jewel--a world-class right-hand reef that has hosted international competition and draws dedicated cold-water chargers from across the globe. When North Atlantic storms send clean groundswell down the Pentland Firth, this flat rock shelf transforms into mechanical walls and barrels that rival anything in Europe.
Scotland's world-class right - Cold water perfection - North Atlantic power
Works best with swells from 325° (NW). Workable range: 300°-360°.
Best Sept-March with large North Atlantic swells
🪸 Sharp reef, 🪨 Rocks, 🌀 Strong rips, 👥 Crowded
Heavy reef break. Very cold water (7-12C). Crowds when classic. Booties essential year-round.
Porthleven is Cornwall's heavy-water arena--a powerful reef break that detonates beside the harbour wall when sizeable SW groundswells wrap into Mount's Bay. The wave is an A-frame but the right is the prize.
Cornwall's heavy reef - Harbour wall barrels - SW swell magnet
Offshore wind from 0° (N). Offshore range: 315°-70°. Best window: morning.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🪨 Rocks, 🌀 Strong rips, 👥 Crowded, ⚠️ Shallow
Extremely powerful wave breaking next to harbour wall. Shallow reef. Rocks everywhere. Very crowded when on.
Lynmouth is Devon's hidden gem--a fickle left-hand point break that only comes alive with substantial WNW groundswell and the right wind. When the stars align, long walls peel along the rocky headland.
Devon's fickle left point - Cliff access only - Needs size to fire
Offshore wind from 170° (S). Offshore range: 135°-200°. Best window: morning.
Needs very specific large NW swells to work
🪨 Rocks, 🌀 Strong rips, 🚶 Difficult access, 🏝️ Remote
Difficult access down cliff path. Very rocky entry and exit. Needs large swell that limits who can surf it.
The Cribbar is England's answer to big wave surfing--a monstrous reef that lurks off Towan Head in Newquay, only awakening when massive Atlantic storms send long-period groundswell crashing into the Cornish coast. It breaks a handful of times per year at best.
England's big wave beast - Breaks a few times per year - Expert only
Works best with swells from 250° (WSW). Workable range: 225°-280°.
Breaks a handful of times per year during major storms
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🪨 Rocks, 🏝️ Remote, 🌀 Strong rips, ⚠️ Shallow
Extremely powerful big wave. Breaks far offshore over reef. Long holddowns in cold water. Spring tides only.
Brimms Ness Bowl is one of Scotland's most fearsome waves--a thick, grinding slab that detonates over shallow reef on the remote Caithness coastline.
Heavy Scottish slab - Remote Caithness coast - Freezing barrels
Offshore wind from 200° (SSW). Offshore range: 160°-250°. Best window: both.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 🪨 Rocks, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote
Heavy slab over shallow reef. Extremely cold water (7-12C). Very remote location, far from medical help.
Croyde Bay is Devon's most celebrated beach break--a horseshoe-shaped bay that produces hollow, punchy peaks at low tide when the rock shelf creates steep, barrelling waves.
Devon's classic beach break - Low tide rock shelf barrels - Crowded but fun
Best Sept-March but summer swells possible
🪨 Rocks, 🌀 Strong rips, 👥 Crowded, ⚠️ Shallow
Rock shelf exposed at low tide creates hazard. Strong rips on bigger swells. Very crowded in summer.
Little Fistral sits at the southern end of its more famous neighbour, offering a more technical reef/point setup that rewards local knowledge.
South Fistral reef - More technical than main beach - Local knowledge rewarded
Works best with swells from 260° (W). Workable range: 230°-290°.
Offshore wind from 135° (SE). Offshore range: 90°-170°. Best window: morning.
Year-round with best quality autumn-winter
🪸 Sharp reef, 🪨 Rocks, 👥 Crowded, 🌀 Strong rips
Rocky reef on the south side of Fistral. Can be crowded when good.
Bagpipes is the kind of wave that separates the serious from the curious--a heavy slab that detonates on a shallow reef shelf along the remote Caithness coast.
Remote Scottish slab - Almost un-surfed - Maximum consequence
Works best with swells from 340° (NNW). Workable range: 310°-360°.
Offshore wind from 200° (SSW). Offshore range: 160°-240°. Best window: both.
Best months: Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote, 🪨 Rocks
Extremely heavy slab. Very shallow reef. Powerful holddowns in freezing water. Remote.
Thurso Reef sits in the shadow of its more famous neighbour Thurso East, serving as both an overflow option and a quality wave in its own right.
Thurso Bay reef - A-frame alternative - Less intense than East
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 290°-350°.
Offshore wind from 200° (SSW). Offshore range: 160°-230°. Best window: both.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 🚫 Pollution, 🪨 Rocks, 🏝️ Remote
Historically polluted water from sewage outfall. Sharp reef. Very cold water.
Skara Brae sits on Orkney's raw, exposed west coast near one of Europe's most important Neolithic sites. This left-hand reef catches virtually everything the North Atlantic throws at it.
Orkney reef - Ancient coastline - Virtually empty lineup
🪸 Sharp reef, 🪨 Rocks, 🏝️ Remote, 🌀 Strong rips, 🚶 Difficult access
Remote Orkney location. Freezing water (6-12C). Limited medical facilities. Ferry required.
Crab Island is one of the Gower's quality reef setups, breaking off a rocky platform in Langland Bay. It needs proper size to wrap around the Bristol Channel.
Gower reef break - Needs size to fire - Sharp reef
Best months: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🪨 Rocks, ⚠️ Shallow, 🌀 Strong rips
Sharp reef, booties essential. Strong currents around headland.
Porthcawl Point--known locally as The Peak--is South Wales' most iconic wave. This reef/point setup breaks best at high tide.
South Wales' most popular - High tide specialist - Sea wall barrels
Offshore wind from 45° (NE). Offshore range: 0°-80°. Best window: morning.
🪨 Rocks, 👥 Crowded, ⚠️ Shallow, 🚫 Pollution
Sea wall and rocks present danger. Gets very crowded when good. Water quality concerns after heavy rain.
Freshwater West is Pembrokeshire's most exposed beach--a long stretch of sand with reef sections that sits wide open to Atlantic SW swells.
Pembrokeshire's exposed beach - Reef and sand sections - Military access
Works best with swells from 240° (WSW). Workable range: 200°-290°.
Offshore wind from 70° (ENE). Offshore range: 40°-110°. Best window: morning.
🌀 Strong rips, 🪨 Rocks, 🚶 Difficult access
Very strong rips. Rocky reef sections. Military range sometimes restricts access.
Brimms Ness Point is the left-hand counterpart to the nearby Bowl--a long, walling left that peels along the reef at the headland.
Caithness left reef - Cliff access - Remote and empty
Works best with swells from 325° (NW). Workable range: 290°-355°.
Offshore wind from 170° (S). Offshore range: 135°-210°. Best window: both.
Remote Caithness coast. Difficult cliff path access. Freezing water.
Dalmore is one of the Outer Hebrides' most photogenic surf spots--a dramatic crescent of sand flanked by towering sea stacks and dark cliffs on the Isle of Lewis.
Lewis' dramatic beach break - Sea stacks and empty waves - Wild Hebrides
Works best with swells from 295° (WNW). Workable range: 260°-330°.
Offshore wind from 135° (SE). Offshore range: 100°-170°. Best window: both.
Very remote Isle of Lewis. Freezing water. Limited medical facilities. Steep cliff access.
Sennen Cove sits near the very tip of Cornwall at Land's End, wide open to whatever the Atlantic sends its way.
Land's End beach break - Exposed to all swells - All abilities
Works best with swells from 280° (W). Workable range: 250°-315°.
Rips against the harbour wall and rocks at south end.
Pete's Reef is one of the Gower's open secrets--a shallow, technical reef at Langland Bay that produces quality waves at low tide.
Gower's shallow reef - Low tide specialist - Sharp and technical
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 200°-280°.
Offshore wind from 10° (N). Offshore range: 330°-50°. Best window: morning.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 🪨 Rocks, 🦔 Urchins
Very shallow reef at low tide. Booties essential. Sea urchins present.
Kimmeridge is Dorset's premier reef break--a powerful right-hander that peels off Broad Bench headland when strong SW groundswell wraps around the south coast.
Dorset's fickle reef - MOD access restrictions - Powerful when on
Best months: Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🪨 Rocks, 👥 Crowded, 🌀 Strong rips, 🚶 Difficult access
MOD firing range--access restricted when red flag flying. Very shallow reef. Check firing times.
Salt House Reef sits at the southern end of Widemouth Bay near Bude, where submerged rock formations create defined peaks with more power than the adjacent beach break.
Widemouth reef section - More power than the beach - Bude area
Submerged rocks form the reef. Watch for rips around rock formations.
Eoropie sits at the very tip of the Isle of Lewis, near the Butt of Lewis lighthouse, and catches just about every swell the North Atlantic produces.
Butt of Lewis - Powerful barrels - One of UK's most consistent
Works best with swells from 325° (NW). Workable range: 290°-360°.
Offshore wind from 170° (S). Offshore range: 130°-200°. Best window: morning.
Heavy waves. Strong rips. Remote near Butt of Lewis lighthouse. Cold water year-round.
Dalbeg Slab lurks in a secluded cove on Lewis' west coast--a left-hand slab that fires during winter storms.
Lewis' secret slab - Expert only - Fickle and fearsome
Works best with swells from 290° (WNW). Workable range: 270°-330°.
Offshore wind from 130° (SE). Offshore range: 100°-160°. Best window: morning.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🪨 Rocks, ⚠️ Shallow, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote
Dangerous slab over shallow reef. Strong tides and undertow. Extremely cold water. Expert only.
Clachtoll is a picture-postcard pocket beach on Sutherland's wild coast, framed by ancient Lewisian gneiss.
Sutherland pocket beach - Ancient geology - Guaranteed solitude
🌀 Strong rips, 🪨 Rocks, 🏝️ Remote, 🚶 Difficult access
Remote Sutherland. Long drive from any airport. Very cold water. Rocky outcrops.
Murkle is a fickle but fearsome left-hand slab near Thurso that wraps around the point and produces thick, pitching barrels.
Caithness left slab - Backdoor barrels - Expert territory
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 340°-40°.
Offshore wind from 195° (SSW). Offshore range: 160°-230°. Best window: morning.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🪨 Rocks, 🌀 Strong rips, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, ⚠️ Shallow
Heavy left slab with barrel sections. Expert surfers only. Big tidal ranges. Very cold water.
Manorbier--known as The Dak--is one of Pembrokeshire's best reef breaks, a peeling right-hander that works on dropping high tide.
Pembrokeshire right reef - Castle backdrop - High tide specialist
Offshore wind from 20° (NNE). Offshore range: 350°-60°. Best window: morning.
🪨 Rocks, 🪸 Sharp reef, 👥 Crowded, 🌀 Strong rips
High tide reef. Can be crowded. Reef gets rocky when big.
Machrihanish's Westport sandbar sits at the north end of one of Scotland's most beautiful beaches.
Kintyre sandbar - Fickle but rewarding - Airport on doorstep
Very strong rips. Fickle sandbar shifts regularly. Need local knowledge.
Marwick Bay is one of Orkney's most exposed surf spots--a right-hand reef on the west coast wide open to the North Atlantic.
Orkney's right reef - Full Atlantic exposure - Surf alone
Offshore wind from 100° (E). Offshore range: 70°-140°. Best window: morning.
🪨 Rocks, 🪸 Sharp reef, 🌀 Strong rips, 🏝️ Remote
Heavy reef. Strong currents. Extremely cold water. Remote.
Sandside Bay would be famous for its quality left-hander if it weren't for its proximity to the Dounreay nuclear facility.
Quality left by harbour - Nuclear neighbour - Unique risk assessment
Works best with swells from 310° (NW). Workable range: 280°-360°.
Offshore wind from 225° (SW). Offshore range: 180°-260°. Best window: both.
Potential for radioactive particles (Dounreay nearby). Quality hollow left near harbour.
Gills Bay Slab is one of Europe's heaviest waves--a monstrous left-hand slab that only comes alive during the most violent winter storms.
European big wave slab - Storm-only activation - Career-ending consequence
Works best with swells from 15° (NNE). Workable range: 340°-60°.
Offshore wind from 225° (SW). Offshore range: 190°-260°. Best window: both.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🪨 Rocks, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, ⚠️ Shallow, 🌀 Strong rips, 🏝️ Remote
Monster slab. Expert only. One of Europe's heaviest waves. Water temps can drop to 7C.
Porth Neigwl--or Hell's Mouth--is a sweeping 3-mile beach on the Lleyn Peninsula that catches SW-S swells.
Hell's Mouth - 3-mile beach - North Wales' best
Wedgy left at south end over rocky bottom. Strong rips possible.
Fistral Beach is the undisputed capital of English surfing--the beach that has hosted international competition for decades.
England's surfing capital - Year-round waves - Ground zero for UK surf
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 250°-300°.
Dangerous rips at low tide. Extremely crowded in summer. Huge tidal range (7.8m).
Rest Bay is the most consistent break in Porthcawl's varied lineup--a broad sandy beach that picks up SW swells.
Porthcawl's most consistent - All abilities - Rapidly changing tides
🌀 Strong rips, 👥 Crowded, 🪨 Rocks, 🚫 Pollution
Rip current around headland. Vast tidal range. Avoid at high tide. Pollution possible.
Three Peaks is one of the Gower's most powerful setups--an exposed reef that produces heavy A-frame peaks.
Gower's powerful reef - A-frame peaks - Best at high tide
Works best with swells from 250° (WSW). Workable range: 220°-280°.
Offshore wind from 10° (N). Offshore range: 350°-50°. Best window: morning.
Exposed reef producing powerful waves. Can get crowded when conditions align.
Bantham sits at the mouth of the River Avon in South Devon, where the river creates sandbars that produce surprisingly powerful waves.
Devon rivermouth - Deceptively powerful - South coast gem
Offshore wind from 340° (NNW). Offshore range: 310°-20°. Best window: morning.
Strong rips at rivermouth. Water quality can be poor after rain. Crowded when good.
Melvich Rivermouth is one of Sutherland's most flexible waves--a sandbar where a peat-stained river creates ever-shifting banks.
Sutherland rivermouth - Long walling rights - Peat-stained barrels
Works best with swells from 330° (NNW). Workable range: 310°-0°.
Tannin-brown river feeds sandbar. Watch for rocks. Remote with limited facilities.
Torrisdale Bay is one of Scotland's most remote and beautiful surf spots--a wide sandy bay where the Naver river creates sandbars.
Remote Highland beauty - River-access adventure - Empty perfection
Works best with swells from 340° (NNW). Workable range: 310°-35°.
🌀 Strong rips, 🏝️ Remote, 🚶 Difficult access
Rips by river. Access requires paddling across river or hiking. Extremely remote.
The Zorba is the Cribbar's lesser-known but equally fearsome sibling--a big wave reef off Pentire headland.
Cornwall's un-ridden big wave - Pentire reef - Last frontier
🪨 Rocks, 🪸 Sharp reef, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🌀 Strong rips, ⚠️ Shallow
Un-ridden big wave reef. Massive granite finger reef. Tow-in territory only.
Whitesands Bay sits near St Davids and is Pembrokeshire's most popular beach break.
Pembrokeshire's popular beach - St Davids backdrop - Reliable all-rounder
Works best with swells from 255° (WSW). Workable range: 210°-300°.
Dangerous rips in bigger swells. Rocky headland at north end.
Port Bharrapol sits on Tiree--the windiest island in Britain and one of its most unlikely surf destinations.
Tiree island surf - Caribbean looks, Scottish temperature - Catches everything
Works best with swells from 280° (W). Workable range: 225°-340°.
Rocky reef sections. Remote island--flight or ferry from Oban. Cold water year-round.
Cayton Point is Yorkshire's most feared wave--a heavy, multi-lipped left that breaks directly onto shallow boulder reef.
Yorkshire's heaviest wave - Breaks into rock ledges - Maximum respect required
Works best with swells from 20° (NNE). Workable range: 340°-60°.
🪨 Rocks, ⚠️ Shallow, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🌀 Strong rips
Heavy left breaking onto boulder reef. Multi-lipped takeoff INTO rock ledges. Potentially fatal.
St Agnes is a characterful Cornish surf village with a beach/reef setup that produces quality waves through a range of conditions.
Cornish village vibes - Reef and beach mix - Strong local crew
Works best with swells from 285° (WNW). Workable range: 240°-330°.
Offshore wind from 150° (SSE). Offshore range: 100°-200°. Best window: morning.
🪨 Rocks, 🌀 Strong rips, 👥 Crowded, 👊 Localism
Rocks throughout lineup. Dangerous rips by harbour wall. Often crowded with strong local crew.
Porthtowan is a punchy Cornish beach break that packs more power than many visitors expect.
Punchy Cornwall beach - Hollow low tide peaks - Cliff-flanked cove
Works best with swells from 285° (WNW). Workable range: 265°-330°.
Needs at least 7s period. Ideal: 12s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 120° (ESE). Offshore range: 90°-170°. Best window: morning.
🌀 Strong rips, 🪨 Rocks, 🚫 Pollution, 👥 Crowded
Strong rips. Rocks at southern end. Pollution issues. Very crowded in summer.
Freshwater Bay is the Isle of Wight's most iconic wave--a hollow right-hand reef/point that breaks over jagged rock.
Isle of Wight's best - Hollow right over rock - Ferry access adventure
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 190°-270°.
Offshore wind from 340° (NNW). Offshore range: 310°-45°. Best window: morning.
🪨 Rocks, 🪸 Sharp reef, 🌀 Strong rips, ⚠️ Shallow
Hollow right over jagged rock. Rippy conditions. Requires ferry access.
Rhossili Bay is frequently voted one of the UK's most beautiful beaches--sweeping sand backed by dramatic cliffs.
One of UK's most beautiful - Softer Gower waves - Worm's Head views
Works best with swells from 240° (WSW). Workable range: 210°-290°.
Offshore wind from 60° (ENE). Offshore range: 30°-120°. Best window: morning.
Occasional rips in bigger surf. Strong undertows. No lifeguard. Long walk from car park.
Llangennith is the Gower's workhorse wave--the go-to beach that catches most swells.
Gower's workhorse - Infamous paddle out - Welsh surf heartland
Infamous difficult paddle out. Rips present. Can get crowded. Closeouts common on low tide.
Saltburn is the spiritual home of northeast England surfing--a Victorian seaside town with beach and reef.
NE England's surf hub - Victorian charm - Beach and reef sections
Works best with swells from 20° (NNE). Workable range: 340°-70°.
Offshore wind from 200° (SSW). Offshore range: 170°-250°. Best window: morning.
🚫 Pollution, 🪨 Rocks, 🌀 Strong rips, 👥 Crowded
Pollution can be an issue. Rocks at southern end. Crowded when waves arrive.
Tynemouth Longsands is the most accessible surf in northeast England--a long sandy beach within easy reach of Newcastle.
Newcastle's urban surf - Priory ruins backdrop - Easy access from city
Works best with swells from 20° (NNE). Workable range: 355°-70°.
Offshore wind from 250° (WSW). Offshore range: 210°-290°. Best window: both.
Can get crowded with surf schools. Rips in bigger swells.
Praa Sands is south Cornwall's most popular beach break--a south-facing cove that catches SW groundswell.
South Cornwall's best beach - Board-snapping shore dump - SW swell catcher
Best months: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr.
Dangerous rips. Heavy board-breaking shore dump at high tide. Often very crowded.
Compton Bay is the Isle of Wight's most surfed beach--a stretch with three distinct sections.
Isle of Wight's surf beach - Three sections - Ferry adventure
Offshore wind from 0° (N). Offshore range: 320°-60°. Best window: morning.
Most popular surf beach on Isle of Wight. Rips in bigger swells. Requires ferry access.
Dunnet Bay is the friendly face of Caithness surfing--a broad sandy beach that offers a gentler introduction to the region.
Caithness' friendly beach - Beginner to intermediate - Near Thurso
Works best with swells from 330° (NNW). Workable range: 280°-20°.
Offshore wind from 180° (S). Offshore range: 100°-200°. Best window: morning.
Best months: Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr.
Rips and rocks. Reef at north end is more advanced. Cold water year-round.
Newgale is one of Pembrokeshire's most consistent surf spots--a pebble-and-sand beach that bears the full force of Atlantic swells.
Pembrokeshire's consistent pick - Pebble and sand - Atlantic exposure
Works best with swells from 255° (WSW). Workable range: 210°-290°.
Offshore wind from 90° (E). Offshore range: 30°-120°. Best window: morning.
Rips in bigger swells. Pebble bank backwash at high tide. Venturi wind effects from hills.
Tolcarne Wedge is Newquay's bodyboard-friendly wedge, a short, punchy setup that can throw surprisingly square barrels when swell, tide, and rebound line up. It is a compact urban wave rather than a long ride, but that intensity is exactly the draw. Expect tight takeoffs, shallow sand, and a crew that knows the tiny window well.
Newquay wedge • Bodyboard barrel window • Tide-sensitive setup
Offshore wind from 120° (ESE). Offshore range: 90°-135°. Best window: morning.
Sandy Bay at Llantwit Major is a Welsh bodyboard and surf wedge that wakes up when Bristol Channel energy meets the right tide and bank shape. The wave is fickle, short and powerful, with local knowledge making a big difference. Treat the pin and conditions as a starting point and check the tide carefully before committing.
Welsh wedge • Bristol Channel pulse • Tide-critical bodyboard wave
Offshore wind from 20° (NNE). Offshore range: 0°-45°. Best window: morning.
Rock platform. Bristol Channel funnels swell.
Pipeline is the proving ground of professional surfing—a shallow, left-breaking barrel that has defined generations of surfers. The wave breaks just 75 yards from the beach over a dangerously shallow lava reef, producing thick, hollow tubes that are as punishing as they are perfect. When NW swells hit during winter, Pipe delivers some of the heaviest barrels on Earth.
🏆 The proving ground • Heaviest barrels on Earth • Experts only
Works best with swells from 310° (NW). Workable range: 295°-340°.
Ideal size: 3.2m. Too small below 1.8m, too big (closeout) above 4.6m.
Nov-Feb peak. WNW-NW swells. Kona winds best.
🪸 Sharp reef, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 👊 Localism, 👥 Crowded, ⚠️ Shallow
Extremely dangerous. Shallow 1st reef, deeper 2nd/3rd reef on bigger swells. Long hold-downs. Heavy localism.
Beach access at Ehukai Beach Park. Easy paddle out through channel.
Backdoor is the right-hand barrel at the Pipeline reef—sharing the same takeoff zone but breaking in the opposite direction. When NW to NNW swells arrive with shorter periods, they break up the swell lines and create peaky A-frames, allowing the right to peel with ferocious power over extremely shallow reef.
🔥 Pipeline's evil twin • Right-hand deathpit • NNW swell specialist
Works best with swells from 330° (NNW). Workable range: 315°-350°.
Nov-Feb peak. NW-NNW swells create peaky A-frames that produce the right.
Super hollow, deep tube over very shallow reef. Shorter period NW-NNW swells break up lines creating peaky A-frames.
Same as Pipeline. Beach access at Ehukai Beach Park.
Sunset Beach is one of surfing's most revered and challenging waves—a football-field-sized playing field of shifting peaks and deep-water power. West Peak is the classic heavy right, but the wave can break across multiple takeoff zones depending on swell direction. The lineup is deceptive and the currents are strong.
🌅 The ultimate proving ground • Shifting peaks • Deep water power
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 300°-340°.
Nov-Feb peak. Best at 8-20ft. West Peak is the classic heavy right.
🌀 Strong rips, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 👥 Crowded
Powerful and deceptive. Multiple shifting peaks over huge area. Strong currents.
Waimea Bay is the birthplace of big wave surfing—a thundering right-hander that only truly comes alive when swells exceed 15 feet. When it's on, the takeoff is a heart-stopping drop into a churning wall of whitewater. The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational is held here, requiring 20ft+ consistent surf.
🤙 Birthplace of big wave surfing • Eddie Would Go • 15ft+ to fire
Ideal size: 6.8m. Too small below 4.6m, too big (closeout) above 9.1m.
Only really turns on at 15ft+. Dec-Feb peak. Eddie Aikau invitational venue.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🌀 Strong rips, 👥 Crowded
Birthplace of big wave surfing. Only breaks properly at 15ft+. Massive shorebreak on close-out sets.
Beach access. Popular swimming beach when flat.
Off The Wall sits just west of Pipeline and delivers powerful rights with workable walls and barrel sections. When N-NNE swells sweep sets down from Backdoor, OTW lights up with fast, hollow waves that reward committed tube riders.
💪 Pipeline's neighbor • Powerful rights • Regular footer's dream
Nov-Feb peak. NW-NNW swells. Pipeline's neighbor.
Powerful right for regular footers with workable walls and barrel sections. N-NNE swells sweep sets down from Backdoor.
Rocky Point is the North Shore's premier high-performance wave—shifty peaks over reef that offer both rippable faces and solid barrel sections. Strong currents keep the lineup constantly reshuffling, making it one of the more democratic waves on the Seven Mile Miracle.
📸 Photographer magnet • High performance • Shifty peaks
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 300°-330°.
Offshore wind from 120° (ESE). Offshore range: 90°-180°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Feb peak. Shifty peaks, strong currents keep lineup mixed.
Shifty peaks with strong currents. Photographer magnet. Rippable faces plus solid barrels.
Haleiwa is the gateway to the North Shore and a Triple Crown venue that delivers powerful rights and hollow barrels. The Toilet Bowl inside section is brutally shallow, adding consequence to an already demanding wave. When solid WNW swells wrap in, the rights can barrel for 100 yards.
🚪 Gateway to the North Shore • Triple Crown venue • Toilet Bowl inside
Works best with swells from 305° (NW). Workable range: 290°-320°.
Nov-Feb peak. Triple Crown venue. Gateway to the North Shore.
Powerful rights, hollow barrels. Toilet Bowl inside section is brutally shallow. Dangerous coral reef.
Beach access at Ali'i Beach Park. Parking available.
Velzyland is a draining right-hand ledge over shallow coral named after legendary shaper Dale Velzy. Phantom Reef offshore funnels swell directly into the lineup, creating hollow, peeling rights that can run for 150 yards. One of the most heavily localized spots on the North Shore.
🏄 Dale Velzy's legacy • Draining ledge • 150-yard peelers
Nov-Mar. Named after Dale Velzy. Phantom Reef offshore funnels swell in.
Draining right-hand ledge over shallow coral. Can peel 150 yards. Heavily localized.
Log Cabins catches more northerly swells than its neighbor Pipeline, with westerly swells refracting past toward Pipe. The uneven lava and sand bottom creates heavier barrels that many consider even more consequential than Pipeline.
🪵 Heavier than Pipe • N swell magnet • Life-changing barrels
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 340°-360°.
Ideal size: 3.5m. Too small below 2.4m, too big (closeout) above 4.6m.
Nov-Feb. More northerly swells hit Logs direct while westerly swells refract to Pipe.
Uneven lava/sand bottom makes it even heavier than Pipe. Life-changing barrels.
Gas Chambers is a fast, hollow, detonating barrel that breaks over extremely shallow reef between Rocky Point and Pipeline. The name says it all—you're locked in a tube with very little room for error over razor-sharp coral.
💀 Detonating barrels • Extremely shallow • Helmet recommended
Nov-Feb. Between Rocky Point and Pipeline.
Fast, hollow, detonating barrels over extremely shallow reef. Expert tube riders only. Helmet recommended.
Beach access between Rocky Point and Pipeline.
Rockpile sits between Log Cabins and Off The Wall, offering a mighty left that rolls 150 yards from deep water. Also known as Gap in the Road, it becomes a legitimate big wave spot at 10ft+ and is rarely as crowded as its famous neighbors.
🪨 Gap in the Road • 150-yard lefts • Uncrowded alternative
Nov-Feb. Between Log Cabins and OTW. Big wave spot at 10ft+.
Mighty left that rolls 150 yards from deep water. Also known as Gap in the Road.
Leftovers sits between Haleiwa and Waimea Bay, catching leftover swell that bends around the point. On the right day, it can deliver world-class waves with barely anyone out—one of the North Shore's best-kept open secrets.
🤫 North Shore sleeper • World-class potential • Empty on the right day
Nov-Feb. Haleiwa-side of Waimea. Can be world-class and empty on the right day.
Multiple peaks, powerful walls. Catches leftover swell.
Laniakea is a beautiful right point break 2.5 miles north of Haleiwa, also famous as Turtle Beach for the green sea turtles that bask on shore. The wave offers fun, long walls that are more accessible than the heavier breaks further up the coast.
🐢 Turtle Beach • Fun right point • Intermediate-friendly
Nov-Mar. Also known as turtle beach. Good intermediate North Shore wave.
Fun, long walls when not too big. Good intermediate North Shore wave.
Beach access. Also known as Turtle Beach.
Chun's Reef is the mellow side of the North Shore—a fun reef break that offers longboard-friendly rights without the intensity of its bigger-name neighbors. Accessible and forgiving, it's one of the best spots for intermediate surfers to experience North Shore waves.
🏖️ Mellow North Shore • Longboard heaven • Fun and accessible
Nov-Mar. Mellower North Shore break good for longboarding.
Right peels over reef. Less intense than bigger-name neighbors.
Backyards is a shifty wave between Sunset Beach and Velzyland that requires a fast takeoff to get barreled. Shallow coral can detonate without warning, and the break sits directly behind beachfront houses—hence the name.
🏠 Behind the houses • Fast takeoff required • Shallow detonations
Nov-Feb. Between Sunset and V-Land. Fast takeoff required for barrel.
Requires fast takeoff to get barreled. Shallow coral can detonate. Behind beachfront houses.
Pupukea is a sand and rock bottom break between the Pipeline area and Rocky Point. Fun and surfable at smaller sizes, it becomes demanding at head-high-plus with legitimate barreling potential.
🌊 Classic Hawaiian reef • Fun to demanding • Barrel potential
Sand and rock bottom. Fun to 6ft, demanding to 10ft. Barreling potential.
Kammieland is named after the old Kammie's Market nearby. It offers a fickle but consistent left over shallow reef with long, workable walls—and far less crowd pressure than the higher-profile breaks nearby.
🏪 Kammie's Market legacy • Workable walls • Under the radar
Nov-Feb. Near old Kammie's Market. Fickle but consistent left.
Shallow reef near old Kammie's Market. Long workable walls. Less crowded than nearby breaks.
Mokuleia is a two-mile north-facing beach break stretch west of Haleiwa with multiple peaks and relative solitude. The trade-off is that NE trade winds are onshore here, so it needs WNW-NW swells with SE or light variable winds to really shine.
🏖️ Two miles of peaks • Uncrowded beach break • Wind-dependent
Nov-Mar. NE trades are onshore here. Need WNW-NW swells with E-SE wind.
Two-mile north-facing stretch west of Haleiwa. Multiple peaks, relatively uncrowded. NE trades are onshore.
Phantoms is a big wave outer reef that lurks beyond Velzyland and Sunset Beach, only awakening when XL winter swells march in. It funnels swell toward the shoreline breaks and offers deep water peaks for those willing to paddle or tow into the unknown.
👻 Outer reef phantom • XL swell only • Deep water power
Ideal size: 6.1m. Too small below 4.6m, too big (closeout) above 7.6m.
Dec-Feb. Only breaks on XL swells. Funnels swell into V-Land.
Big wave outer reef beyond V-Land/Sunset. Only breaks on XL swells. Remote, heavy, rarely crowded.
55 minutes drive from HNL airport. Requires boat access ($150/day).
Outer Log Cabins is the North Shore's extreme outer reef that refracts long-period WNW swell toward Pipeline. Breaking on only the biggest swells, it reforms into Pipe on the inside. An 85-foot wave was ridden here in 1998.
🏔️ 85ft ridden here • North Shore's outer limit • Tow-in territory
Works best with swells from 307° (NW). Workable range: 295°-320°.
Dec-Feb. Deep water outer reef. Breaks on biggest swells, reforming into Pipe.
Extreme conditions. Tow-in only. Refracts long-period WNW swell toward Pipeline.
Himalayas is a massive outer reef off Haleiwa that only breaks on historic, once-in-a-decade swells. Named for the Himalayan scale of the waves it produces, this is true frontier big wave surfing—tow-in only, rarely crowded, and deeply consequential.
🗻 Himalayan-scale waves • Historic swells only • Frontier big wave
Ideal size: 9.1m. Too small below 6.1m, too big (closeout) above 12.2m.
Dec-Feb. Only breaks on historic swells. Tow-in territory.
Massive outer reef off Haleiwa. Only breaks on historic swells. Named for Himalayan-scale waves.
50 minutes drive from HNL airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
Tow-in only. Accessible by jet ski from Haleiwa Harbor.
Avalanche is a deepwater outer reef near Haleiwa that handles massive swells when the nearshore breaks max out. It offers big wave left-handers in relatively deep water.
🏔️ Haleiwa's outer reef • Deep water power • Big swell handler
Nov-Feb. Deepwater outer reef near Haleiwa. Handles massive swells.
Deepwater outer reef near Haleiwa. Handles massive swells.
50 minutes drive from HNL airport. Requires boat access ($150/day).
The Backdoor Outer Reef encompasses Pipeline's 2nd and 3rd reef, breaking 80 yards outside the main zone at 4x+ overhead. Foamy lumps reform into Pipe on the inside, creating one of the most consequential waves on the North Shore.
🌊 Pipe's outer shelf • 2nd & 3rd reef • Reforms into Pipeline
Dec-Feb. Pipeline's 2nd and 3rd reef. Breaks 80yds outside main zone at 4x+ overhead.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow
Pipeline's 2nd and 3rd reef. Foamy lumps that reform into Pipe. Historic big wave arena.
Paddle from Ehukai Beach Park. Long paddle out.
Makaha is Hawaii's original big wave spot—the place where big wave surfing was pioneered before Waimea Bay. Multiple sections (Point, Bowl, Blowhole, Inside Reef) offer different rides depending on the swell. Also a legendary longboard wave, but heavily localized.
🤙 Original big wave spot • Legendary longboard wave • Heavy localism
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 260°-280°.
Nov-Mar. Hawaii's original big wave spot. Multiple sections: Point, Bowl, Blowhole, Inside Reef.
Heavily localized. Can hold massive W swells. Multiple sections with different characters.
Kaena Point is Oahu's most remote and most powerful wave, accessible only by foot at the island's northwestern tip. Sometimes deemed unrideable, it represents true frontier big wave surfing at a site of deep Hawaiian spiritual significance.
⚡ Oahu's most powerful • Accessible only by foot • Sacred ground
Dec-Feb. Oahu's most remote, most powerful wave. Accessible only by foot.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote, 🚶 Difficult access, 🌀 Strong rips
Oahu's most remote, most powerful wave. Accessible only by foot. Hawaiian spiritual site.
Accessible only by hiking trail from Mokuleia or Makaha side. No road access.
Ala Moana Bowls is the Pipeline of Town—long, hollow, fast lefts over a shallow man-made reef created during 1950s harbor construction. When solid south swells arrive, it produces draining barrels that rival anything on the North Shore for intensity.
🏙️ Pipeline of Town • Man-made reef • South shore tubes
Offshore wind from 10° (N). Offshore range: 340°-60°. Best window: morning.
May-Sep south swell season. Pipeline of Town. Man-made reef from 1950s harbor construction.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 👥 Crowded
South Shore Pipeline. Long, hollow, fast lefts over shallow dredged reef. Birthplace of modern tube riding in Town.
Beach access at Ala Moana Beach Park. Easy paddle.
Kaisers is the premier South Shore performance wave—a bowly, hollow right that empties into a deep channel with a left going over shallow reef. The fierce pecking order among locals makes this one of the more intimidating lineups in Honolulu.
👑 South Shore premier • Fierce pecking order • Bowly perfection
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 155°-225°.
Offshore wind from 10° (N). Offshore range: 340°-55°. Best window: morning.
May-Sep. Bowly hollow right empties into channel, left goes over shallow reef.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 👥 Crowded, 👊 Localism
Bowly hollow right empties into channel. Fierce pecking order. Best at 3-5ft SW swell.
Kewalos is an A-frame peak that has served as the proving ground for some of Hawaii's greatest modern surfers, including Carissa Moore and Seth Moniz. The left walls up for high-performance surfing, making it a popular summer competition venue.
🏆 Carissa & Seth's home break • A-frame comp wave • Talent factory
May-Sep. A-frame peak. Hot bed for Hawaii's emerging talent.
A-frame peak. Carissa Moore, Seth Moniz home break. Great summer comp venue.
Publics offers one of the longest lefts in Honolulu, peeling over sharp live coral near Diamond Head. Softer and friendlier on higher tides, it becomes hollower and more dangerous at low tide. Consistent and always crowded.
🌊 Longest left in Town • Always crowded • Diamond Head classic
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 160°-230°.
Offshore wind from 25° (NNE). Offshore range: 340°-80°. Best window: morning.
May-Sep. One of the longest lefts in Honolulu. Low tide dangerous over sharp live coral.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 🦔 Urchins, 👥 Crowded
Sharp shallow live coral. Softer on higher tide, hollower on low. Always crowded.
Canoes is Hawaii's most iconic learner wave and the birthplace of modern surfing. Most days it's a gentle, rolling right, but when big south swells hit, the barrel section transforms from mellow to draining.
🏄 Birthplace of modern surfing • Waikiki icon • Mellow to draining
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 150°-235°.
Offshore wind from 10° (N). Offshore range: 315°-55°. Best window: morning.
May-Sep. Hawaii's most iconic learner wave. Transforms on big south swells.
Mellow most days. Transforms on big south swells. Birthplace of modern surfing.
Waikiki Beach. Walk-in access from hotels.
Queen's is named after Queen Liliuokalani, the last monarch of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Most days it's a mellow, forgiving wave, but when big south swells hit, the inside ramp section transforms into a legitimate performance wave. Historic and iconic.
👑 Queen Liliuokalani's wave • Historic royalty • Transforms on south swells
Works best with swells from 195° (SSW). Workable range: 150°-235°.
Offshore wind from 350° (N). Offshore range: 315°-80°. Best window: morning.
May-Sep. Named for Queen Liliuokalani. Inside ramp section legitimate on big south swells.
Named for Queen Liliuokalani. When big south swells hit, the inside ramp turns into a legitimate performance wave.
Three's is a fast and hollow right-hander in the Waikiki/Diamond Head area that catches more S-SE swell than other south shore breaks, making it one of the more consistent summer options. All levels share the lineup.
3️⃣ Fast hollow rights • S-SE swell magnet • All levels welcome
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 155°-220°.
May-Sep. Catches more S-SE swell than other Town breaks.
Fast and hollow right-hander. Catches more S-SE swell than other Town breaks.
Beach access in Waikiki/Diamond Head area.
Diamond Head Cliffs encompasses multiple breaks along the iconic crater—Lighthouse, Cliffs, Suicides, and Tongs. More easterly exposure than other south shore spots means it picks up more SE swell, but it's also the first spot to blow out when trade winds kick in.
💎 Multiple DH breaks • SE swell exposure • Heavy when on
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 135°-215°.
Offshore wind from 5° (N). Offshore range: 335°-50°. Best window: morning.
May-Sep. Multiple breaks along Diamond Head. When big south swell wraps in, heavy barrels.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 🦔 Urchins, 🪨 Rocks
Multiple breaks: Lighthouse, Cliffs, Suicides, Tongs. Shallow reef, urchins. First spot to blow out in trades.
Various access points along Diamond Head Road.
Sandy Beach is one of the most powerful shorebreaks in Hawaii—a thick, detonating shore pound that's primarily a bodysurf and bodyboard wave. Red Bull Foam Wreckers venue. Not a traditional paddle-in surf wave, but iconic in its own right.
💥 Legendary shorebreak • Bodysurf paradise • Extremely powerful
Works best with swells from 170° (S). Workable range: 150°-200°.
May-Sep. Incredible bodysurf/bodyboard shorebreak. Extremely powerful and dangerous.
⚠️ Shallow, 🌀 Strong rips, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs
Incredible bodysurf/bodyboard shorebreak. Extremely powerful, dangerous, thick shore pound. Not a paddle-in surf wave.
Beach access at Sandy Beach Park. Large parking lot.
Jaws (Pe'ahi) is one of the biggest rideable waves on Earth and the birthplace of tow-in surfing. A deep water reef amplifies massive North Pacific swells, producing walls of water that move at 30mph. The iconic right barrel at XXL size is one of surfing's most awe-inspiring sights.
🦈 Where tow-in was born • 30mph walls of water • Maui's monster
Works best with swells from 340° (NNW). Workable range: 320°-30°.
Nov-Mar. ~15 rideable days/year. Tow-in and paddle. Iconic right barrel at XXL size.
One of the biggest rideable waves on Earth. Deep water reef amplifies massive NP swells. Waves move at ~30mph.
30 minutes drive from OGG airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
Tow-in or paddle from cliff access. 4WD road to overlook.
Honolua Bay is Maui's crown jewel—Hawaii's best point break offering 200-400 meter rides through multiple sections (Coconuts, The Cave, Keiki Bowl). Molokai island shadows pure NW swells, so it needs a N component to fire. When it's on, it's world-class.
🌺 Maui's crown jewel • Quarter-mile rights • When it's on, it's ON
Works best with swells from 330° (NNW). Workable range: 315°-20°.
Nov-Mar. Hawaii's best point break. Molokai shadows pure NW; needs N component.
200-400m rides through Coconuts, The Cave, Keiki Bowl. Molokai shadows pure NW; needs N component.
Trail from parking area. Short walk through trees.
Ma'alaea (Freight Trains) is considered the world's fastest rideable wave—a 150-300+ yard barrel that fires only a handful of times per year when huge south swells slip through the gap between Kahoolawe and Maui. When it runs, it's one of surfing's greatest spectacles.
🚂 World's fastest wave • 300-yard barrel • Handful of times per year
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 160°-210°.
Offshore wind from 340° (NNW). Offshore range: 290°-10°. Best window: morning.
May-Sep. World's fastest rideable wave. Fires only a handful of times per year.
Considered the world's fastest rideable wave. 150-300+ yard barrel. Needs huge S-SW swell through Kahoolawe gap.
Hookipa is world-famous for windsurfing but also delivers excellent reef break surfing. Multiple peaks in the bay catch consistent winter swells, though strong currents and frequent wind make it a challenging paddle.
🌬️ Windsurf capital • Multiple reef peaks • Consistent winter waves
Works best with swells from 15° (NNE). Workable range: 350°-40°.
Nov-Mar. World-famous windsurf spot that's also excellent for surfing. Usually windy.
Consistent winter reef breaks. Strong currents and usually windy. Multiple peaks in the bay.
Beach access at Ho'okipa Beach Park. Easy parking.
Honokohau Bay sits just south of Honolua Bay and offers a less crowded alternative when Honolua is maxed out. Solid right reef break with barrel sections that shares the same swell window.
🌊 Honolua's neighbor • Less crowded • Solid right reef
Works best with swells from 355° (N). Workable range: 340°-10°.
Nov-Mar. Just south of Honolua. Less crowded alternative when Honolua is maxed.
Solid right reef break with barrel sections. Same swell window as Honolua.
Tunnels is a spectacular hollow right-hander that breaks over shallow reef on Kauai's North Shore. The long paddle out is rewarded with deep barrel tubes in crystal-clear water with the Na Pali coast as a backdrop. Appropriately named and very localized.
🏔️ Na Pali backdrop • Deep barrel tubes • Crystal clear water
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 320°-40°.
Offshore wind from 160° (SSE). Offshore range: 110°-200°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Mar. Long paddle to spectacular hollow rights over shallow reef. Na Pali backdrop.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 👊 Localism, 🌀 Strong rips
Long paddle to hollow rights over shallow reef. Crystal clear water, Na Pali backdrop. Very localized.
Beach access at Ha'ena Beach Park. Long paddle out.
Cannons is the equally hollow and shallow left on the other side of Ha'ena Bay from Tunnels. A shorter paddle than its neighbor, it delivers powerful barrels in a breathtaking setting. Very localized.
💣 Tunnels' twin left • Equally hollow • Breathtaking setting
Offshore wind from 200° (SSW). Offshore range: 190°-250°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Mar. Other side of Ha'ena Bay from Tunnels. Equally hollow left.
Equally hollow and shallow as Tunnels. Shorter paddle. Powerful and localized.
Beach access at Ha'ena Beach Park. Shorter paddle than Tunnels.
Hanalei Point is a long right point that breaks 300+ yards over lava reef with powerful barrel sections and an inside bowl. Multiple peaks spread the crowd across the lineup. This is where Andy and Bruce Irons honed their skills.
🏄 Irons brothers' proving ground • 300-yard rights • Multiple peaks
Offshore wind from 160° (SSE). Offshore range: 100°-200°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Mar. Long right point breaking 300+ yards over lava reef. Andy & Bruce Irons' proving ground.
Powerful with barrel sections and inside bowl. Multiple peaks spread the crowd. Andy & Bruce Irons' proving ground.
Waikoko's sits across Hanalei Bay from Hanalei Point, offering a fickle left reef break that requires large N swell and W wind to fire. When conditions align, it's a beautiful, secluded wave with a shorter right also available.
🌴 Hanalei Bay's hidden left • Fickle but beautiful • Secluded
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 310°-20°.
Nov-Mar. Across Hanalei Bay from the point. Fickle left reef break. Needs large N swell and W wind.
Fickle left reef break. Needs large N swell and W wind. Beautiful, secluded.
Beach access from Hanalei Bay west side.
Hideaways is an exposed reef break in Princeville that produces hollow A-frames on NW swell. Limited to 10 parking spots and accessed by a steep trail, it rewards the effort with very little crowd and quality waves over sharp reef.
🙈 Hidden Princeville gem • Hollow A-frames • 10 parking spots
Offshore wind from 157° (SSE). Offshore range: 120°-200°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Mar. In Princeville. Exposed reef break with hollow A-frames on NW swell.
🪸 Sharp reef, ⚠️ Shallow, 🚶 Difficult access
Limited parking (10 spots). Sharp reef, especially on low tide. Steep trail access.
Steep trail from Princeville. Very limited parking (10 spots).
Pakala (Infinities) is a long, roping left point break on Kauai's south coast. Named Infinities for the seemingly endless 200+ yard rides it produces when big enough. A hidden gem that catches summer south swells.
♾️ Infinities • 200-yard lefts • Kauai's hidden gem
Works best with swells from 190° (S). Workable range: 170°-235°.
Offshore wind from 40° (NE). Offshore range: 20°-120°. Best window: morning.
May-Sep. Also known as Infinities for the ride length. 200+ yard rides.
Long roping left point break. 200+ yard rides when big enough. Hidden gem south swell spot.
Beach access from roadside near mile marker 21.
Polihale is a remote beach break at the end of the road on Kauai's west side. Powerful waves channel in from the Na Pali coast, producing empty, epic beachbreak peaks with strong rips. The reward for the long drive is true solitude.
🏝️ End of the road • Empty epic peaks • Na Pali power
Works best with swells from 315° (NW). Workable range: 280°-345°.
Nov-Mar. Remote beach break at end of the road. Powerful waves from Na Pali.
Remote beach break at end of the road. Powerful waves channel in from Na Pali. Strong rips.
End of the road on Kauai's west side. Dirt road may require 4WD.
Banyans is the Big Island's best wave—an A-frame reef break that catches both W/NW swells in winter and S swells in summer, making it one of Hawaii's most versatile spots. Long, glassy rights in Kona conditions are the specialty. Shane Dorian's home break.
🌴 Big Island's best • Shane Dorian's home • Year-round waves
Works best with swells from 270° (W). Workable range: 200°-300°.
Year-round. S swells in summer, NW in winter. Shane Dorian's home break.
A-frame reef break. Long glassy rights in Kona conditions. Shane Dorian's home break.
Pine Trees (Kohanaiki) is the most consistent break on the Kona coast, with multiple peaks that work on a wide range of swell directions. The left is usually better. Shallow reef and strong currents on bigger days keep it honest.
🌲 Kona's most consistent • Multiple peaks • Local favorite
Works best with swells from 290° (WNW). Workable range: 200°-320°.
Offshore wind from 70° (ENE). Offshore range: 10°-100°. Best window: morning.
Nov-Mar. Most consistent break on the Kona coast. Left usually better.
Multiple peaks, most consistent break on the Kona coast. Shallow reef, strong currents on bigger days.
Lyman's is a classic left point/reef break south of Magic Sands on the Kona coast. It works on multiple swell directions—NW in winter, SW in summer—making it one of the more versatile waves on the Big Island. A Hawaiian royalty surf spot with rich history.
👑 Hawaiian royalty spot • Multi-direction • Classic Kona left
Works best with swells from 292° (WNW). Workable range: 250°-320°.
Offshore wind from 90° (E). Offshore range: 50°-140°. Best window: morning.
Year-round. Works on multiple swell directions. Hawaiian royalty surf spot.
Classic left point/reef break south of Magic Sands. Shallow reef, sharp bottom. Hawaiian royalty surf spot.
Access from Ali'i Drive near Holualoa Bay.
Honoli'i is the most consistent wave on the Big Island's east side—a rivermouth break near Hilo that creates strong, reliable peaks year-round. Sharp lava rocks demand respect, and it's usually onshore with trade winds, but when the winds switch offshore, it's magic.
🌊 Hilo's best • Year-round rivermouth • Magic when offshore
Works best with swells from 45° (NE). Workable range: 10°-95°.
Offshore wind from 230° (SW). Offshore range: 200°-260°. Best window: morning.
Year-round. Most consistent wave on Big Island's east side. Usually onshore but magic when winds switch.
Rivermouth creates strong reliable peaks. Sharp lava rocks. Usually onshore but magic when winds switch.
Beach access at Honoli'i Beach Park. Short walk from parking.
Avaavaroa Passage is the Cook Islands' premier surf spot—a fast, hollow right-hander that breaks over shallow coral on Rarotonga's south coast. The passage funnels SW groundswells from the Southern Ocean into clean, barrelling waves. Expert-level break that demands respect due to shallow reef and strong currents.
🇨🇰 Cook Islands flagship • Hollow right barrels • South coast reef pass
Works best with swells from 220° (SW). Workable range: 170°-250°.
Austral autumn/winter for SW groundswells from Southern Ocean.
Fast hollow right over shallow coral. Booties recommended. Strong currents in passage.
Paddle from shore through passage. 15 min drive from airport.
Black Rock (locally known as Socials) is Rarotonga's most popular surf break, located in front of the Nikao Social Centre on the northwest coast. A reef break offering both lefts and rights, it catches North Pacific swells during the November-March season. More accessible than the south coast passes, it's the go-to break for the local surf community.
🇨🇰 Rarotonga's most surfed • North swell catcher • Community hub
Works best with swells from 340° (NNW). Workable range: 310°-50°.
Nov-Mar for N swells from North Pacific storms. Year-round potential.
Shallow coral reef. Popular break, can get crowded by Raro standards.
Shore access from Nikao Social Centre. 3km from airport.
Rutaki Passage is an exposed reef break on Rarotonga's west coast that has quite reliable surf. An awesome left-hander that is often hollow, best at mid-to-high tide with NE winds and SW swell. Less intense than Avaavaroa, making it a solid intermediate-level option on the island.
🇨🇰 Reliable reef pass • Fun hollow left • Intermediate-friendly
Works best with swells from 225° (SW). Workable range: 180°-260°.
Autumn-winter for consistent SW groundswells.
Coral reef. Uncrowded even on good days.
Dumbea Left is the flagship wave of the Noumea area, breaking on the outer barrier reef 30 minutes by boat from the capital. A long, refined left-hander with barrel sections and rippable walls over coral reef. SSW groundswells light it up from May through October.
🇳🇨 Noumea's flagship left • Barrier reef perfection • 30min boat ride
Austral winter for SSW groundswells. Some summer cyclone swells.
Barrier reef break. Sharks present. 30min boat from Noumea.
15 minutes drive from NOU airport. Requires boat access ($80/day).
30 min boat from Noumea to outer barrier reef.
Secrets is widely regarded as New Caledonia's best wave and a top surf break in the South Pacific. A long, fast, tubular left of approximately 100 metres that draws comparisons to Macaronis in the Mentawais. Breaks over shallow coral reef near Bourail, accessible via Nekweta Surf Camp. When SSW groundswells arrive, this is world-class.
🇳🇨 New Cal's crown jewel • 100m tubular left • Compared to Macaronis
Winter SSW groundswells. February can fire with cyclone swells.
Shallow reef. Strong currents. Sharks. 15min boat from Bourail coast.
150 minutes drive from NOU airport. Requires boat access ($60/day).
2.5hr drive from Noumea to Bourail, then 15min boat. Nekweta Surf Camp.
Gouaro is a fun right-hander near Bourail that complements the more intense Secrets break nearby. A consistent reef break suitable for all levels, breaking on the same reef system. Short boat ride from Nekweta Surf Camp makes it easily accessible alongside Secrets for a day of varied waves.
🇳🇨 Bourail fun right • Intermediate-friendly • Near Secrets
Reef break. Mellow by New Cal standards. 5min boat from camp.
Same logistics as Secrets. 5min boat from Nekweta camp.
Lenakil is Tanna Island's most famous left, breaking right in front of Lenakel village on the west coast. A hollow reef break that works best with SW-S swells during the trade wind season. The unique setting includes views of Mt. Yasur, one of the world's most accessible active volcanoes. Remote and uncrowded.
🇻🇺 Tanna's signature left • Village break • Active volcano views
Offshore wind from 70° (ENE). Offshore range: 40°-100°. Best window: morning.
Reef break in front of Lenakel village. Mt. Yasur active volcano nearby.
Use Tanna/Whitegrass Airport (TAH) for Lenakel-area access; Port Vila is the international gateway.
Eratap is considered Vanuatu's best and most consistent wave, breaking on a reef adjacent to the luxury Eratap Beach Resort on Efate's south coast. The right-hander can be world-class with long barrels and walls when SE groundswell arrives with light winds. Multiple sections along the reef cater to different levels. Best at higher tides.
🇻🇺 Vanuatu's most consistent • World-class right • Resort access
April-Sept main season. SE groundswell and light winds.
Coral reef. Multiple break sections along reef.
Eratap Beach Resort / Perfect Wave Travel
30min drive from Port Vila. Eratap Beach Resort access. Can paddle or take resort boat.
Aganoa Right is the signature wave of Savai'i, Samoa's largest and wildest island. A powerful right-hander breaking over reef on the south coast, it's the anchor break for Aganoa Lodge. Catches S-SE groundswells year-round at 2-10ft+, with a hollow takeoff and barrel sections. The setting is pure tropical Polynesia—remote, uncrowded, and stunning.
🇼🇸 Savai'i signature • Powerful right barrel • Aganoa Lodge
April-Oct for S-SE groundswells. Year-round 2-10ft+.
Sharp coral reef. Sharks. Remote location on Savai'i.
Savai'i access is via ferry or local Maota Airport (MXS); APW is the international gateway on Upolu.
K-Land is a world-class reef pass on Savai'i's south coast, named after the legendary G-Land in Java. A long, wrapping left with both hollow barrelling sections and rippable walls, surfable from 4-12ft+. Accessed by a 30-minute boat ride from Aganoa Lodge, it's one of the South Pacific's most elite waves—heavy, long, and virtually uncrowded.
🇼🇸 Named after G-Land • World-class reef pass • Heavy Samoan left
Works best with swells from 170° (S). Workable range: 140°-210°.
Needs at least 11s period. Ideal: 16s+ (long-period groundswell).
🪸 Sharp reef, 🦈 Sharks, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote
Heavy reef pass. Long hold-downs possible. Boat access only. 30min from Aganoa.
120 minutes drive from MXS airport. Requires boat access ($50/day).
Savai'i access is via ferry or local Maota Airport (MXS); coordinates remain approximate and need local verification.
Motels is a dependable left-hander on Tongatapu's west coast, part of the Ha'atafu reef system that includes five excellent breaks. Near Ha'atafu Beach Resort, it's one of the more forgiving waves in the lineup, making it ideal for intermediate surfers. SW groundswells from Tasman Sea lows light it up from May through October.
🇹🇴 Ha'atafu reef system • Dependable left • Intermediate-friendly
Austral winter. SW groundswells from Tasman Sea / Antarctic lows.
Coral reef. Part of Ha'atafu reef system.
Near Ha'atafu Beach Resort. Short drive from west coast.
Ovaka Pass opens up the Vava'u island group for surfing, 300km north of Tongatapu. An exposed reef break on the outer reef of Ovaka island that has quite consistent surf from SW groundswells. Never gets crowded. Hazards include urchins, rips, and rocks. The Vava'u group is also famous for whale watching from July to October.
🇹🇴 Vava'u island group • Exposed outer reef • Zero crowds
Feb-Sept. Autumn-winter SW groundswells.
🦔 Urchins, 🌀 Strong rips, 🪨 Rocks, 🏝️ Remote
Exposed outer reef. Urchins, rips, rocks. Remote island group.
Unknown minutes drive from VAV airport. Requires boat access ($80/day).
Use Vava'u (VAV) as the nearest flight gateway where possible; Tongatapu is the international entry point.
Fare Left is Huahine's most iconic wave—a powerful reef pass left with quality barrels that is the region's most surfed break. Known for heavy localism from the "Black Shorts" crew, respect is absolutely essential. The pass channels SW groundswells into long, hollow lefts over coral reef. Accessible by 30-minute paddle or boat from Fare town.
🇵🇫 Huahine's signature pass • Heavy localism • Quality barrels
Winter SW groundswells. 72% clean waves in June.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🦈 Sharks, 👊 Localism, 🌀 Strong rips
Heavy localism—the "Black Shorts" crew. Sharp reef. Sharks. Long paddle or boat access.
Huahine (HUH) is the nearest airport; Tahiti/PPT is the international gateway.
Parea is a more mellow reef break on southern Huahine Iti, offering an intermediate-friendly alternative to the intense Fare passes in the north. A right-hander that catches S-SW swells, it's popular with hotel guests and visiting surfers looking for quality waves without the heavy localism of Fare. Beautiful setting on the quieter half of Huahine.
🇵🇫 Southern Huahine • Intermediate-friendly right • Less localism
Coral reef. Less intense than Fare. Less localism.
Fly to Huahine (HUH) via Papeete/Tahiti (PPT, international entry), then ~30min south to Huahine Iti.
P-Pass (Palikir Pass) is a perfect right-hand barrel that put Pohnpei on the global surf map. Often called the "cleanest wave in the Pacific," it breaks over coral reef for up to 200 meters with flawless, wide-open tubes and performance sections. The reef is more forgiving than Indonesia or Tahiti. Under small conditions it's manageable, but at 5ft+ it enters another level. Accessed via Pohnpei Surf Club boat charters.
🇫🇲 Cleanest wave in the Pacific • 200m perfect right • Bucket list
Works best with swells from 350° (N). Workable range: 300°-60°.
Oct-Apr North Pacific winter swell season. Occasional Sept/May swells.
Coral reef (more forgiving than Indo/Tahiti). Sharks. Boat access only.
15 minutes drive from PNI airport. Requires boat access ($100/day).
20min boat from Kolonia harbor. Pohnpei Surf Club operates charters.