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.
Water temp
7°C
Wetsuit
6/5mm + boots, gloves, hood
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
1/10
Access: Near Stanley. Named for its surf.
Peak: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Apr, Sep
Southern summer. Atlantic storms produce E swells.
Verified by Local reports, British Forces
How well swell angle matches the spot
Wave height in the ideal range
Each spot has different period requirements. Points and reefs can handle longer periods than beaches.
Offshore/glassy conditions