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.
Snapper Rocks surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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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
- 1.6m - 2.1m
- 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
👥 Spring Break (Sep 26 – Oct 11) — expect extra crowds
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Snapper Rocks?
The Snapper Rocks profile favors low to mid tide, ideally between 0.4m and 1.4m 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 Snapper Rocks?
The Snapper Rocks profile uses wind from SSE (165°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 120° to 211°. 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 Snapper Rocks?
The Snapper Rocks scoring profile favors swell from E (65° to 119°), a swell-height range of 0.8m to 2.5m, and a reference period of 13s. 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 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?
The spot profile lists OOL as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 15 minutes.
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
Nearby Spots
Duranbah
🧲 Gold Coast swell magnet • Punchy A-frames • Pro training ground
Greenmount
🌅 Superbank connection • Coolangatta icon • Headland right-hander
Superbank (Maxing)
🌊 2km connected rides • Cyclone swells only • 500-surfer zoo
Kirra
🏆 Australia's barrel queen • Superbank's finishing move • Sand politics drama
Fingal Head
🌋 Basalt reef right • Australia's Giants Causeway • Ancient lava break
Burleigh Heads
💪 Gold Coast power • Boulder point perfection • Don't drop in on the locals
Plan a trip around Snapper Rocks
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