Daniels Reef
Heavy east-coast reef near Leigh with a left off the point and a bigger, heavier A-frame peak beside it. It rarely breaks, but tropical-cyclone swells make it the place to check, and it holds solid swell. Great Barrier and Little Barrier islands shelter it from much of the E-SE. Rocky around the take-off; experts. It works best on an ENE swell with WNW winds around mid tide. Watch for: rocks at the take-off; experts.
Daniels Reef surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ENE (70°)
- Direction range
- 30° - 120°
- Size range
- 2.1m - 5m
- Ideal size
- 3.4m - 4.3m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- WNW (290°)
- Offshore range
- 245° - 335°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
Water temp
17°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
9/10
Crowd level
4/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Daniels Reef?
The Daniels Reef profile favors mid tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Daniels Reef?
The Daniels Reef profile uses wind from WNW (290°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 245° to 335°. 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 Daniels Reef?
The Daniels Reef scoring profile favors swell from ENE (30° to 120°), a swell-height range of 2.1m to 5m, and a reference period of 12s. 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 Daniels Reef?
The main season at Daniels Reef is Jan-Aug.
How do I get to Daniels Reef?
The spot profile lists AKL as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 80 minutes.
What kind of wave is Daniels Reef?
Daniels Reef is a reef break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 9/10.
Best Season
Peak: Jan-Aug
Getting There
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