Rutaki Passage
Rutaki Passage is an exposed reef break on Rarotonga's west coast that has quite reliable surf. An awesome left-hander that is often hollow, best at mid-to-high tide with NE winds and SW swell. Less intense than Avaavaroa, making it a solid intermediate-level option on the island.
Rutaki Passage surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (225°)
- Direction range
- 180° - 260°
- Size range
- 0.6m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.5m - 2m
- Height multiplier
- 1.03×
- Ideal period
- 13s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NE (45°)
- Offshore range
- 10° - 80°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid to high
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 1.6m
Water temp
26°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: Shore access. 7km from airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Rutaki Passage?
The Rutaki Passage profile favors mid to high tide, ideally between 0.5m and 1.6m 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 Rutaki Passage?
The Rutaki Passage profile uses wind from NE (45°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 10° to 80°. 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 Rutaki Passage?
The Rutaki Passage scoring profile favors swell from SW (180° to 260°), a swell-height range of 0.6m 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 Rutaki Passage?
The main season at Rutaki Passage is Mar-Oct. Autumn-winter for consistent SW groundswells.
How do I get to Rutaki Passage?
The spot profile lists RAR as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 15 minutes. Shore access. 7km from airport.
What kind of wave is Rutaki Passage?
Rutaki Passage is a reef break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Mar-Oct
Autumn-winter for consistent SW groundswells.