Anakao (Flameballs)
Anakao (Flameballs) is Madagascar's best-kept surf secret—a world-class left reef break on the island's remote southwest coast. The wave produces long, hollow barrels over coral reef, accessed by boat from the tiny fishing village of Anakao. Getting here is an adventure: long flights, rough roads, basic infrastructure. But for those who make the journey, the reward is pristine, empty perfection in one of Earth's most unique settings. Ultimate African surf exploration.
Anakao (Flameballs) 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
- 1m - 3.5m
- Ideal size
- 2.1m - 2.9m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 45° - 135°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 1.8m
Water temp
24°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
1/10
Access: Boat from Anakao village to outer reefs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of wave is Anakao (Flameballs)?
Anakao is a reef break in Southwest Coast, Madagascar, that mostly breaks left.
What swell works best at Anakao (Flameballs)?
Anakao picks up swell from the S round to the SW, and it's best when it's coming straight out of the SSW. It starts working at around 1m and handles up to about 3.5m, with the sweet spot around 2.1 to 2.9m. Period matters too: aim for 14s or longer, as anything under 10s tends to be weak. These are the numbers our scoring uses, so treat them as a guide rather than a promise.
What wind is offshore at Anakao (Flameballs)?
An E wind is dead offshore at Anakao, and anything from the NE round to the SE keeps it clean. The morning is typically the best window, roughly 6am to 11am. Light winds from other directions can still be fine; strong offshores can make it hard to get into waves.
What tide is best at Anakao (Flameballs)?
Anakao is at its best around mid tide, roughly 0.5m to 1.8m on the local chart.
When is the best time of year to surf Anakao (Flameballs)?
The most reliable run of swell at Anakao comes Apr to Sep. There's a second window in Mar and Oct too. April-September SW groundswell season. Dry season with offshore winds.
How cold is the water at Anakao (Flameballs)?
The water at Anakao averages around 24°C, so boardshorts or a rashguard will do. It shifts a few degrees through the year, so check the season before you pack.
Is Anakao (Flameballs) good for beginners?
It's more of an intermediate wave, rated 6/10 for difficulty, so newer surfers are best off sticking to the smaller days. The lineup is usually quiet (crowd 1/10). Remote location. Basic infrastructure. Shark presence.
How do I get to Anakao (Flameballs)?
The nearest airport on our list is TLE, then it's roughly a 2-hour drive. From there you need a boat to reach the break (we estimate around $50 USD, but confirm with an operator). Boat from Anakao village to outer reefs.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Sep
Secondary: Mar, Oct
April-September SW groundswell season. Dry season with offshore winds.
Getting There
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