Long Bay Reef
Reef round the cliffs at the south end of Long Bay on the North Shore: a fun left over a spongy, kina-covered reef with small barrel sections, and a right round a rock outcrop about 100 m further on. It only works on rare days of pumping NE swell, when locals are quick to jump on it. It works best on a NE swell with SW winds around low tide. Watch for: kina (sea urchins) on the reef.
Long Bay Reef surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NE (45°)
- Direction range
- 0° - 90°
- Size range
- 1.2m - 3.6m
- Ideal size
- 2.3m - 3m
- Height multiplier
- 0.92×
- Ideal period
- 10s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (230°)
- Offshore range
- 185° - 275°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low
Water temp
17°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
3/10
Crowd level
7/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Long Bay Reef?
The Long Bay Reef profile favors low tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Long Bay Reef?
The Long Bay Reef profile uses wind from SW (230°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 185° to 275°. 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 Long Bay Reef?
The Long Bay Reef scoring profile favors swell from NE (0° to 90°), a swell-height range of 1.2m to 3.6m, and a reference period of 10s. 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 Long Bay Reef?
The main season at Long Bay Reef is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr.
How do I get to Long Bay Reef?
The spot profile lists AKL as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 40 minutes.
What kind of wave is Long Bay Reef?
Long Bay Reef is a reef break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 3/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
Getting There
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