Surf Bay
Surf Bay in the Falkland Islands represents one of Earth's most unlikely surf destinations—a sub-Antarctic beach where South Atlantic storms produce waves that break with penguins waddling on shore and elephant seals hauled out nearby. The water is frigid (requiring serious exposure gear), the conditions are challenging, and the setting is utterly unlike anywhere else on Earth. The name "Surf Bay" suggests the waves have been noticed for a long time, though the surfing community here consists mainly of British military personnel and the occasional adventurous traveler. Genuinely unique.
Surf Bay surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ENE (70°)
- Direction range
- 50° - 85°
- Size range
- 1m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 1.9m - 2.5m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- W (270°)
- Offshore range
- 230° - 310°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 2m
Water temp
7°C
Wetsuit
6/5mm + boots, gloves, hood
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
1/10
Access: Near Stanley. Named for its surf.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Surf Bay?
The Surf Bay profile favors the recorded tide range, ideally between 0.5m and 2m 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 Surf Bay?
The Surf Bay profile uses wind from W (270°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 230° to 310°. 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 Surf Bay?
The Surf Bay scoring profile favors swell from ENE (50° to 85°), a swell-height range of 1m to 3m, 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 Surf Bay?
The main season at Surf Bay is Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Apr, Sep. Southern summer. Atlantic storms produce E swells.
How do I get to Surf Bay?
The spot profile lists MPN as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 10 minutes. Near Stanley. Named for its surf.
What kind of wave is Surf Bay?
Surf Bay is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Apr, Sep
Southern summer. Atlantic storms produce E swells.