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Beach
both
Level 5/10

Surf Bay

Stanley, Falkland Islands
🏝️Remote🌀Strong rips

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.

Spot Details

Swell Requirements

Optimal direction
ENE (70°)
Direction range
40° - 110°
Size range
1m - 3m
Ideal period
14s+

Wind Requirements

Optimal direction
W (270°)
Offshore range
230° - 310°
Best window
morning

Tide Requirements

Optimal tide
all
Optimal range
0.5m - 2m

Water temp

7°C

Wetsuit

6/5mm + boots, gloves, hood

Difficulty

5/10

Crowd level

1/10

Access: Near Stanley. Named for its surf.

Getting There

Airport
MPN
Drive time
10 min

Best Season

Peak: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar

Secondary: Apr, Sep

Southern summer. Atlantic storms produce E swells.

Data Quality

community

Verified by Local reports, British Forces