Snapper Rocks
Snapper Rocks is the starting point of Australia's legendary Superbank—an artificial sand formation that can create rideable waves stretching over 2 kilometers to Kirra. The right-hand point break produces machine-like barrels and long, rippable walls that have made it the heart of Gold Coast competitive surfing. Cyclone swells from February to May deliver the best conditions, but the wave works year-round. The downside is crowds—Snapper is one of the most crowded waves in Australia, requiring patience and wave selection skills.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (89°)
- Direction range
- 65° - 119°
- Size range
- 0.8m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 2.0m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 13s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSE (165°)
- Offshore range
- 120° - 211°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low to mid
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.4m
Water temp
23°C
Wetsuit
Springsuit / 2mm
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
9/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Snapper Rocks?
Snapper Rocks works best on a low to 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 Snapper Rocks?
Offshore wind at Snapper Rocks blows from the SSE (165°). Anything in the 120° to 211° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at Snapper Rocks?
Snapper Rocks wants E swell (65° to 119°) between 0.8m and 2.5m, with a period of 13s or more for quality waves.
When is the best time of year to surf Snapper Rocks?
The main season at Snapper Rocks is Feb-Oct. A secondary window runs Nov, Dec, Jan. Works year-round. Cyclone swells Jan-Mar.
How do I get to Snapper Rocks?
Fly into OOL, then allow about 15 minutes by road.
What kind of wave is Snapper Rocks?
Snapper Rocks is a point break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Feb-Oct
Secondary: Nov, Dec, Jan
Works year-round. Cyclone swells Jan-Mar.
Getting There
👨👩👧👦Family Travel
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