Barra Kwanza
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.
Barra Kwanza surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (225°)
- Direction range
- 200° - 260°
- Size range
- 1m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 1.9m - 2.5m
- Height multiplier
- 0.92×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 60° - 130°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.5m
Water temp
25°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: 80km south of Luanda. Rocky but good for all levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Barra Kwanza?
The Barra Kwanza profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.3m and 1.5m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Barra Kwanza?
The Barra Kwanza profile uses wind from E (90°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 60° to 130°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Barra Kwanza?
The Barra Kwanza scoring profile favors swell from SW (200° to 260°), a swell-height range of 1m to 3m, and a reference period of 14s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Barra Kwanza?
The main season at Barra Kwanza is Apr-Sep. A secondary window runs Mar, Oct. SW swell season. River mouth setup.
How do I get to Barra Kwanza?
The spot profile lists LAD as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 90 minutes. 80km south of Luanda. Rocky but good for all levels.
What kind of wave is Barra Kwanza?
Barra Kwanza is a reef break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Sep
Secondary: Mar, Oct
SW swell season. River mouth setup.
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