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.
Water temp
16°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
6/10
Peak: Apr-Sep
Secondary: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Primary: SW groundswell. Secondary: NW swells.
🥝 Raglan's inside section • Endless lefts • Kiwi icon
🇳🇿 One of Earth's longest lefts • Endless Summer legend • Kiwi soul
🦁 Lion Rock landmark • Black sand drama • Auckland's wild escape
🌊 Cyclone swell magic • Premier beach break left • Coromandel gem
🪿 Gannet colony views • Auckland consistency • West coast access
⛰️ All-day offshores • Bay of Plenty gem • Easy-access quality