Black Rock
Black Rock is Phillip Island's reef break reward—a quality right-hander that peels over volcanic rock with surprising precision when clean southwest groundswells march in from the Southern Ocean. The wave can barrel properly on the right combination of tide and swell, offering a reef break alternative to the island's sandy beach options. The seal colony nearby means shark awareness is essential, and the water temperature demands serious wetsuit commitment, but Black Rock delivers genuine Victorian reef quality for those willing to seek it out.
Black Rock surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (200°)
- Direction range
- 170° - 230°
- Size range
- 0.8m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.6m - 2.1m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- N (350°)
- Offshore range
- 310° - 30°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 1.5m
Water temp
14°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
4/10
👥 Spring Break (Sep 26 – Oct 11) — expect extra crowds
Access: Rocky entry. Check tide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Black Rock?
The Black Rock profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.5m 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 Black Rock?
The Black Rock profile uses wind from N (350°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 310° to 30°. 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 Black Rock?
The Black Rock scoring profile favors swell from SSW (170° to 230°), a swell-height range of 0.8m to 2.5m, 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 Black Rock?
The main season at Black Rock is Mar-Oct. A secondary window runs Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb. Year-round. Best on clean SW groundswell.
How do I get to Black Rock?
The spot profile lists MEL as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 100 minutes. Rocky entry. Check tide.
What kind of wave is Black Rock?
Black Rock is a reef break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Mar-Oct
Secondary: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
Year-round. Best on clean SW groundswell.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
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Johanna Beach
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