Norah Head
A south-facing reef beneath the historic Norah Head Lighthouse that fires on solid southerly swells. The uneven reef requires experience but rewards with quality walls when conditions align. Surfing beneath the 1903 lighthouse with its red-capped tower is a uniquely Central Coast experience. The headland provides shelter from northerly winds.
Today's Conditions
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSE (150°)
- Direction range
- 110° - 180°
- Size range
- 1m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 2.0m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- W (270°)
- Offshore range
- 240° - 300°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.4m
Water temp
20°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
7/10
Crowd level
5/10
Access: Access via Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Norah Head?
Norah Head works best on a mid tide, ideally between 0.4m and 1.4m on the local tide chart. The tide chart above shows today’s strike window.
What wind direction is offshore at Norah Head?
Offshore wind at Norah Head blows from the W (270°). Anything in the 240° to 300° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at Norah Head?
Norah Head wants SSE swell (110° to 180°) between 1m and 2.5m, with a period of 12s or more for quality waves.
When is the best time of year to surf Norah Head?
The main season at Norah Head is Apr-Sep. A secondary window runs Mar, Oct. Best on solid southerly swells in winter.
How do I get to Norah Head?
Fly into SYD, then allow about 95 minutes by road. Access via Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve.
What kind of wave is Norah Head?
Norah Head is a reef break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 7/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Sep
Secondary: Mar, Oct
Best on solid southerly swells in winter.
Getting There
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