Desperations
Desperations earned its name from surfers seeking an alternative when Cloudbreak and Restaurants get too crowded or maxed out. This reliable left-hander near Namotu Island works in similar conditions to Fiji's famous breaks but with a fraction of the crowd. The wave offers good barrel sections and workable walls over coral reef, providing quality sessions when the A-list spots are packed. For surfers staying at Namotu or exploring the Mamanuca reef system, Desperations delivers solid Fijian reef surfing without the competition for waves.
Desperations surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (200°)
- Direction range
- 170° - 230°
- Size range
- 0.8m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.6m - 2.1m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NE (45°)
- Offshore range
- 10° - 80°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 1.5m
Water temp
27°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: Boat from Namotu Island or Denarau.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Desperations?
The Desperations profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.5m 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 Desperations?
The Desperations 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 Desperations?
The Desperations scoring profile favors swell from SSW (170° to 230°), a swell-height range of 0.8m to 2.5m, 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 Desperations?
The main season at Desperations is Apr-Oct. Fiji winter season. Works in similar conditions to Cloudbreak.
How do I get to Desperations?
The spot profile lists NAN as a nearby airport. A boat transfer is also required. The profile estimates $150 USD; confirm the current price and departure point with an operator. Boat from Namotu Island or Denarau.
What kind of wave is Desperations?
Desperations is a reef break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Oct
Fiji winter season. Works in similar conditions to Cloudbreak.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Cloudbreak
🌊 Fiji perfection • Boat-access barrels • Handles any size
Tavarua Rights
➡️ Cloudbreak's sibling • 200m rights • Fun to firing
Swimming Pools
🏊 Crystal clear perfection • All-levels friendly • Tavarua bonus
Namotu Lefts
🏝️ Resort doorstep barrels • Fiji's most consistent left • 15ft tubes possible
Restaurants
🍽️ Cloudbreak's friendly sister • Perfect tubes • Fiji's best-kept secret
Swimming Pools
🏊 Fiji's best right • Crystal clear canvas • High-performance playground