Tongo Reef
Tongo Reef is the crown jewel of Galapagos surfing - a world-class left reef break on San Cristobal Island that hosted the 2022 WSL QS 1000. The wave offers three distinct sections catering to all levels, from the mellow Bajo to the hollow Pico. Surf with sea lions in one of the planet's most unique wildlife sanctuaries.
Tongo Reef surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (202°)
- Direction range
- 180° - 225°
- Size range
- 1.2m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 2m - 2.6m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ESE (112°)
- Offshore range
- 90° - 135°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.5m
Water temp
22°C
Wetsuit
Springsuit / 2mm
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: Boat taxi $10 return or 20min dirt road walk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Tongo Reef?
The Tongo Reef profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.4m and 1.5m 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 Tongo Reef?
The Tongo Reef profile uses wind from ESE (112°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 90° to 135°. 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 Tongo Reef?
The Tongo Reef scoring profile favors swell from SSW (180° to 225°), a swell-height range of 1.2m to 3m, and a reference period of 16s. 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 Tongo Reef?
The main season at Tongo Reef is Apr-Nov. A secondary window runs Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. Best April-November. Hosted 2022 WSL QS 1000.
How do I get to Tongo Reef?
The spot profile lists SCY as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 20 minutes. Boat taxi $10 return or 20min dirt road walk.
What kind of wave is Tongo Reef?
Tongo Reef is a reef break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Nov
Secondary: Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Best April-November. Hosted 2022 WSL QS 1000.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
La Loberia
🦭 Sea lion beach • Quality reef left • Wildlife paradise
El Canon
🌊 North shore right • NW swell window • Less crowded option
Punta Carola
🌊 Town wave • Right point • Sea lion colony
Punta Negra
🌋 Volcanic reef right • Lower tides • Near Tortuga Bay
Tortuga Bay
🐢 White sand paradise • Marine iguanas • National park setting
Seymour Norte
🚤 Boat access only • Remote reef right • True adventure
Plan a trip around Tongo Reef
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