Bagpipes
Bagpipes is the kind of wave that separates the serious from the curious--a heavy slab that detonates on a shallow reef shelf along the remote Caithness coast.
Bagpipes surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NNW (340°)
- Direction range
- 310° - 360°
- Size range
- 1.2m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 2m - 2.6m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (200°)
- Offshore range
- 160° - 240°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
Water temp
9°C
Wetsuit
6/5mm + boots, gloves, hood
Difficulty
9/10
Crowd level
1/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Bagpipes?
The Bagpipes profile favors mid tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Bagpipes?
The Bagpipes profile uses wind from SSW (200°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 160° to 240°. 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 Bagpipes?
The Bagpipes scoring profile favors swell from NNW (310° to 360°), a swell-height range of 1.2m 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 Bagpipes?
The main season at Bagpipes is Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Apr, May, Aug.
How do I get to Bagpipes?
The spot profile lists INV as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 130 minutes.
What kind of wave is Bagpipes?
Bagpipes is a slab break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 9/10.
Best Season
Peak: Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Apr, May, Aug
Getting There
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Plan a trip around Bagpipes
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