Johanna Beach
Johanna Beach is a wild, exposed beach break on the Great Ocean Road that takes the full force of Southern Ocean swells. The beach is backed by rolling green farmland and the Otway Ranges, creating a quintessentially Victorian coastal landscape. When solid SW swells hit, Johanna produces powerful, punchy waves that can rival any beach break in Australia. The remote nature means crowds are rare, but so is backup if something goes wrong. This is a wave for experienced surfers comfortable in cold, powerful conditions.
Johanna Beach surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (220°)
- Direction range
- 180° - 270°
- Size range
- 1m - 3.5m
- Ideal size
- 2.1m - 2.9m
- Height multiplier
- 1.00×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- N (0°)
- Offshore range
- 315° - 45°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.6m
Water temp
14°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
3/10
👥 Spring Break (Sep 26 – Oct 11) — expect extra crowds
Access: Easy beach access from Great Ocean Road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Johanna Beach?
The Johanna Beach profile favors the recorded tide range, ideally between 0.3m and 1.6m 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 Johanna Beach?
The Johanna Beach profile uses wind from N (0°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 315° to 45°. 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 Johanna Beach?
The Johanna Beach scoring profile favors swell from SW (180° to 270°), a swell-height range of 1m to 3.5m, 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 Johanna Beach?
The main season at Johanna Beach is Apr-Sep. A secondary window runs Mar, Oct. Winter is prime. Picks up all Southern Ocean swell.
How do I get to Johanna Beach?
The spot profile lists MEL as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 180 minutes. Easy beach access from Great Ocean Road.
What kind of wave is Johanna Beach?
Johanna Beach is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Sep
Secondary: Mar, Oct
Winter is prime. Picks up all Southern Ocean swell.
Getting There
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