Milford Reef
Tufts of reef at the south end of Milford Beach hold the sand in place, so lefts and rights peel instead of closing out like the rest of the beach; it turns sucky and fast in a N-NE swell of about 0.6 m-plus, which it rarely gets. Often less crowded than you would expect. It works best on a NE swell with W winds around high tide. Watch for: uneven reef.
Milford Reef surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NE (40°)
- Direction range
- 0° - 90°
- Size range
- 1.2m - 3.6m
- Ideal size
- 2.3m - 3m
- Height multiplier
- 1.00×
- Ideal period
- 10s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- W (260°)
- Offshore range
- 215° - 305°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- high
Water temp
17°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
3/10
Crowd level
7/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Milford Reef?
The Milford Reef profile favors high tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Milford Reef?
The Milford Reef profile uses wind from W (260°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 215° to 305°. 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 Milford Reef?
The Milford 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 Milford Reef?
The main season at Milford Reef is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr.
How do I get to Milford Reef?
The spot profile lists AKL as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 30 minutes.
What kind of wave is Milford Reef?
Milford 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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