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.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ENE (70°)
- Direction range
- 50° - 85°
- Size range
- 1m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 2.4m
- 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?
Surf Bay works best on a mid tide, ideally between 0.5m and 2m on the local tide chart. The tide chart above shows today’s strike window.
What wind direction is offshore at Surf Bay?
Offshore wind at Surf Bay blows from the W (270°). Anything in the 230° to 310° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at Surf Bay?
Surf Bay wants ENE swell (50° to 85°) between 1m and 3m, with a period of 14s or more for quality waves.
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?
Fly into MPN, then allow about 10 minutes by road. 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.