Penguin Head
Fickle right-hander off Penguin Head that only works in bigger SE or E swell. It works best on an ESE swell with SW winds around mid tide. Watch for: rocks.
Penguin Head surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ESE (110°)
- Direction range
- 60° - 160°
- Size range
- 1.5m - 3.8m
- Ideal size
- 2.5m - 3.2m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (225°)
- Offshore range
- 180° - 270°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
Water temp
18°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
5/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Penguin Head?
The Penguin Head profile favors mid tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Penguin Head?
The Penguin Head profile uses wind from SW (225°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 180° to 270°. 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 Penguin Head?
The Penguin Head scoring profile favors swell from ESE (60° to 160°), a swell-height range of 1.5m to 3.8m, 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 Penguin Head?
The main season at Penguin Head is Mar-Sep.
How do I get to Penguin Head?
The spot profile lists SYD as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 155 minutes.
What kind of wave is Penguin Head?
Penguin Head is a point break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Mar-Sep
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Crookhaven Heads ('Eddies')
⚡ Left-hand slab • E swell magnet • Crookhaven-Culburra-Currarong
Callala Lefty
🌊 Left-hand reef • SE swell magnet • Jervis Bay
Chips / Black Head (Gerroa)
🌊 Left-hand reef • SE swell magnet • Kiama-Gerringong-Gerroa
Werri Point
🌊 Right-hand point • ENE swell magnet • Kiama-Gerringong-Gerroa
Cave Beach reef ('Cungee')
🌊 Lefts and rights • Reef • S swell, Booderee & Wreck Bay
Black Rock
🇦🇺 Aussie Pipe • Aboriginal surfing reserve • East coast tubes