Manu Bay
Manu Bay is the inside section of New Zealand's famous Raglan point system—a long, peeling left that extends the ride from Indicators down to the harbor. The wave is slightly more forgiving than the outside sections while still delivering the machine-like walls that made Raglan a surfing icon. On connecting swells, surfers can ride from Indicators through Whale Bay and into Manu Bay for some of the longest lefts in the world. The Raglan town vibe, easy access, and consistent waves make Manu Bay a Kiwi surfing rite of passage.
Manu Bay surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- WSW (240°)
- Direction range
- 210° - 280°
- Size range
- 0.8m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 1.8m - 2.5m
- Height multiplier
- 0.90×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 50° - 130°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 2m
Water temp
17°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
7/10
👥 Spring Break (Sep 26 – Oct 12) — expect extra crowds
Access: Easy road access from Raglan town.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Manu Bay?
The Manu Bay profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.5m and 2m 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 Manu Bay?
The Manu Bay 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 Manu Bay?
The Manu Bay scoring profile favors swell from WSW (210° to 280°), a swell-height range of 0.8m to 3m, 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 Manu Bay?
The main season at Manu Bay is Mar-Oct. March-October best. Tasman Sea swells.
How do I get to Manu Bay?
The spot profile lists HLZ as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 45 minutes. Easy road access from Raglan town.
What kind of wave is Manu Bay?
Manu Bay is a point break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Mar-Oct
March-October best. Tasman Sea swells.
Getting There
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