The Island (Tuamotu Island)
A world-class set of left and right reef breaks around Tuamotu Island off Sponge Bay that handle big swell and work in a wide range of conditions; reached by paddling, or walking across the reef at low tide, from the Sponge Bay car park. Nationally significant and busy; respondents to the Gisborne study flag the island's erosion. It is listed as a surf break of national significance in Schedule 1 of the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement. It works best on a SE swell with NNW winds around low tide. Watch for: reef; low-tide reef walk; busy.
The Island (Tuamotu Island) surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SE (140°)
- Direction range
- 70° - 200°
- Size range
- 1m - 4.1m
- Ideal size
- 2.4m - 3.3m
- Height multiplier
- 1.00×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NNW (340°)
- Offshore range
- 295° - 25°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low
Water temp
18°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
7/10
Crowd level
7/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at The Island (Tuamotu Island)?
The The Island (Tuamotu Island) profile favors low tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at The Island (Tuamotu Island)?
The The Island (Tuamotu Island) profile uses wind from NNW (340°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 295° to 25°. 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 The Island (Tuamotu Island)?
The The Island (Tuamotu Island) scoring profile favors swell from SE (70° to 200°), a swell-height range of 1m to 4.1m, 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 The Island (Tuamotu Island)?
The main season at The Island (Tuamotu Island) is Mar-Oct.
How do I get to The Island (Tuamotu Island)?
The spot profile lists GIS as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 10 minutes.
What kind of wave is The Island (Tuamotu Island)?
The Island (Tuamotu Island) is a reef break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 7/10.
Best Season
Peak: Mar-Oct
Getting There
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