Fingal Head
Fingal Head is a unique right-hand reef break that peels over ancient basalt columns—Australia's own Giants Causeway formed 23 million years ago by lava flows from the now-extinct Tweed Volcano. The wave needs specific NE-E swell to wrap around the headland and break properly, making it an inconsistent but rewarding spot when conditions align. The setting is spectacular, with Cook Island sitting offshore and the hexagonal basalt columns visible at low tide. The break has a loyal local crew who know exactly which tides and swells make it fire.
Fingal Head surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ENE (67°)
- Direction range
- 20° - 123°
- Size range
- 0.5m - 2m
- Ideal size
- 1.2m - 1.6m
- Height multiplier
- 1.08×
- Ideal period
- 11s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (225°)
- Offshore range
- 190° - 257°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.5m
Water temp
22°C
Wetsuit
Springsuit / 2mm
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
4/10
👥 Spring Break (Sep 26 – Oct 11) — expect extra crowds
Access: Fingal Head village. Walk to headland. Giants Causeway basalt formations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Fingal Head?
The Fingal Head profile favors mid tide, 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 Fingal Head?
The Fingal Head profile uses wind from SW (225°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 190° to 257°. 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 Fingal Head?
The Fingal Head scoring profile favors swell from ENE (20° to 123°), a swell-height range of 0.5m to 2m, and a reference period of 11s. 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 Fingal Head?
The main season at Fingal Head is Mar-May. A secondary window runs Feb, Jun. Autumn NE swell season. Needs specific NE swell direction.
How do I get to Fingal Head?
The spot profile lists OOL as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 15 minutes. Fingal Head village. Walk to headland. Giants Causeway basalt formations.
What kind of wave is Fingal Head?
Fingal Head is a reef break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Mar-May
Secondary: Feb, Jun
Autumn NE swell season. Needs specific NE swell direction.
Getting There
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