Porthleven Reef
Porthleven is Cornwall's heavy-water arena--a powerful reef break that detonates beside the harbour wall when sizeable SW groundswells wrap into Mount's Bay. The wave is an A-frame but the right is the prize.
Porthleven Reef surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (225°)
- Direction range
- 200° - 260°
- Size range
- 1.2m - 3.6m
- Ideal size
- 2.3m - 3m
- Height multiplier
- 0.92×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- N (0°)
- Offshore range
- 315° - 70°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low to mid
Water temp
12°C
Wetsuit
5/4mm + boots
Difficulty
8/10
Crowd level
5/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Porthleven Reef?
The Porthleven Reef profile favors low to mid tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Porthleven Reef?
The Porthleven Reef profile uses wind from N (0°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 315° to 70°. 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 Porthleven Reef?
The Porthleven Reef scoring profile favors swell from SW (200° to 260°), a swell-height range of 1.2m to 3.6m, 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 Porthleven Reef?
The main season at Porthleven Reef is Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Apr, Sep. Winter storms bring the best swells
How do I get to Porthleven Reef?
The spot profile lists NQY as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 60 minutes.
What kind of wave is Porthleven Reef?
Porthleven Reef is a reef break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 8/10.
Best Season
Peak: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Apr, Sep
Winter storms bring the best swells
Getting There
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