Agnes Water
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.
Agnes Water surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Direction range
- 60° - 130°
- Size range
- 0.8m - 2m
- Ideal size
- 1.3m - 1.7m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- W (270°)
- Offshore range
- 230° - 310°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.5m
Water temp
25°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
3/10
Crowd level
2/10
👥 Spring Break (Sep 26 – Oct 11) — expect extra crowds
Access: Gateway to Great Barrier Reef. Backpacker town.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Agnes Water?
The Agnes Water profile favors the recorded tide range, ideally between 0.4m 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 Agnes Water?
The Agnes Water profile uses wind from W (270°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 230° to 310°. 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 Agnes Water?
The Agnes Water scoring profile favors swell from E (60° to 130°), a swell-height range of 0.8m to 2m, and a reference period of 12s. 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 Agnes Water?
The main season at Agnes Water is Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Nov, Dec. A secondary window runs May-Oct. Cyclone swells Jan-April. Trade winds make it tricky.
How do I get to Agnes Water?
The spot profile lists GLT as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 80 minutes. Gateway to Great Barrier Reef. Backpacker town.
What kind of wave is Agnes Water?
Agnes Water is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 3/10.
Best Season
Peak: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Nov, Dec
Secondary: May-Oct
Cyclone swells Jan-April. Trade winds make it tricky.
Getting There
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