Strickland Bay
Strickland Bay is Rottnest Island's premier wave—a quality left-hander that breaks along a limestone reef shelf off Western Australia's quokka-inhabited island paradise. The wave offers long walls with occasional barrel sections, working through a wide range of swell sizes. Access is via a 25-minute ferry from Fremantle, and there are no cars on the island—you bike, walk, or catch the bus. The isolation from the mainland, clear water, and lack of crowds (by Perth standards) make Strickland a special escape. Watch for sharks and quokkas.
Strickland Bay surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (215°)
- Direction range
- 190° - 250°
- Size range
- 1m - 3.5m
- Ideal size
- 2.1m - 2.9m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NE (45°)
- Offshore range
- 0° - 90°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low to mid
- Optimal range
- 0.6m - 0.95m
Water temp
19°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
6/10
👥 Spring Break (Sep 26 – Oct 11) — expect extra crowds
Access: Ferry from Perth/Fremantle. No cars on island - bike or bus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Strickland Bay?
The Strickland Bay profile favors low to mid tide, ideally between 0.6m and 0.95m 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 Strickland Bay?
The Strickland Bay profile uses wind from NE (45°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 0° to 90°. 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 Strickland Bay?
The Strickland Bay scoring profile favors swell from SW (190° to 250°), 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 Strickland Bay?
The main season at Strickland Bay is May-Aug. A secondary window runs Apr, Sep. Winter is best. Consistent reef break.
How do I get to Strickland Bay?
The spot profile lists PER as a nearby airport. A boat transfer is also required. The profile estimates $50 USD; confirm the current price and departure point with an operator. Ferry from Perth/Fremantle. No cars on island - bike or bus.
What kind of wave is Strickland Bay?
Strickland Bay is a reef break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: May-Aug
Secondary: Apr, Sep
Winter is best. Consistent reef break.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
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Scarborough Beach
🏖️ Perth's surf hub • Consistent beach break • Always crowded
Trigg Point
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Mandurah Wedge
Perth-side wedge | Breakwater ramps | Bodyboard focus
Three Bears
🐻 Yallingup left • Barrel reef • Consistent
Yallingup
🏖️ Protected Cape Naturaliste • Friendly reef right • Noongar country
Plan a trip around Strickland Bay
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