Tropicals
Tropicals is the softest, most forgiving wave in West Sumbawa, breaking as both lefts and rights on a beautiful white sand beach. The headland provides shelter from certain wind directions, creating a protected zone that often stays clean when other breaks are blown out. It's the go-to spot for beginner-to-intermediate surfers in the area, or for anyone seeking a mellow session in a stunning tropical setting.
Tropicals surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (215°)
- Direction range
- 200° - 230°
- Size range
- 0.9m - 1.8m
- Ideal size
- 1.3m - 1.6m
- Height multiplier
- 0.90×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NE (45°)
- Offshore range
- 15° - 75°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 1.5m
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
4/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Tropicals?
The Tropicals 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 Tropicals?
The Tropicals profile uses wind from NE (45°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 15° to 75°. 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 Tropicals?
The Tropicals scoring profile favors swell from SW (200° to 230°), a swell-height range of 0.9m to 1.8m, 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 Tropicals?
The main season at Tropicals is Apr-Oct. A secondary window runs Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. Best Apr-Oct (dry season, SE trades offshore). Swells year-round but wet season brings onshore winds.
How do I get to Tropicals?
The spot profile lists SWQ as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 90 minutes.
What kind of wave is Tropicals?
Tropicals is a reef break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Oct
Secondary: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Best Apr-Oct (dry season, SE trades offshore). Swells year-round but wet season brings onshore winds.
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