Raglan
Raglan is New Zealand's most celebrated surf destination, a series of volcanic point breaks that peel along black sand beaches on the North Island's rugged west coast. The main breaks—Manu Bay, Whale Bay, and Indicators—offer some of the longest rides in the Southern Hemisphere when SW groundswells wrap into the harbour. Manu Bay is famous for mechanical lefts that can run for 300+ meters. The town itself is a quintessential surf village with strong creative and alternative culture. Cold water and wild weather are part of the deal, but so are empty lineups, epic scenery, and genuine Kiwi hospitality.
Raglan surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (235°)
- Direction range
- 210° - 280°
- Size range
- 0.8m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 1.8m - 2.5m
- Height multiplier
- 0.92×
- Ideal period
- 15s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ESE (120°)
- Offshore range
- 80° - 160°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 2m
Water temp
16°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
6/10
👥 Spring Break (Sep 26 – Oct 12) — expect extra crowds
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Raglan?
The Raglan profile favors the recorded tide range, 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 Raglan?
The Raglan profile uses wind from ESE (120°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 80° to 160°. 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 Raglan?
The Raglan scoring profile favors swell from SW (210° to 280°), a swell-height range of 0.8m to 3m, and a reference period of 15s. 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 Raglan?
The main season at Raglan is Apr-Sep. A secondary window runs Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. Primary: SW groundswell. Secondary: NW swells.
How do I get to Raglan?
The spot profile lists AKL as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 120 minutes.
What kind of wave is Raglan?
Raglan is a point break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Sep
Secondary: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Primary: SW groundswell. Secondary: NW swells.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Manu Bay
🥝 Raglan's inside section • Endless lefts • Kiwi icon
Raglan - Manu Bay
🇳🇿 One of Earth's longest lefts • Endless Summer legend • Kiwi soul
Piha
🦁 Lion Rock landmark • Black sand drama • Auckland's wild escape
Muriwai Beach
🪿 Gannet colony views • Auckland consistency • West coast access
Whangamata Bar
🌊 Cyclone swell magic • Premier beach break left • Coromandel gem
Mount Maunganui
⛰️ All-day offshores • Bay of Plenty gem • Easy-access quality
Plan a trip around Raglan
Compare this break with other destinations in these surf guides.