Scar Reef
Scar Reef lives up to its name with a wave that has left its mark on countless surfers—a perfect, mechanical right-hand barrel breaking over razor-sharp reef in Sumbawa. The wave peels with metronome consistency, offering flawless tube-riding opportunities, but the tradeoff is a bottom that sits terrifyingly close to the surface. Most surfers wear booties here, and even then, reef encounters are considered when, not if. The remoteness adds to both the appeal and the consequence; scoring Scar Reef uncrowded is the dream, but medical facilities are hours away.
Scar Reef 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
- 180° - 230°
- Size range
- 1m - 3.5m
- Ideal size
- 2.1m - 2.9m
- Height multiplier
- 1.03×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 50° - 130°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 1.5m
- Danger below
- 0.2m
Water temp
27°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
8/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: Boat from Lombok or Sumbawa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Scar Reef?
The Scar Reef 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. The profile flags a low-tide hazard below 0.2m.
What wind direction is offshore at Scar Reef?
The Scar Reef profile uses wind from E (90°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 50° to 130°. 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 Scar Reef?
The Scar Reef scoring profile favors swell from SSW (180° to 230°), a swell-height range of 1m to 3.5m, 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 Scar Reef?
The main season at Scar Reef is Apr-Oct. April-October dry season.
How do I get to Scar Reef?
The spot profile lists LOP 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 Lombok or Sumbawa.
What kind of wave is Scar Reef?
Scar Reef is a reef break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 8/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Oct
April-October dry season.
Getting There
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