Tortola - Apple Bay Apple Bay features a reef break with both right and left waves, ideal for longboarding under chest high and shortboarding when it exceeds that height. The spot works at all tides, with optimal conditions from strong NW to NE swells, particularly in January and February. The bottom consists of sharp coral and rocks, so caution is advised. Located on the north shore of Tortola, Apple Bay is easily accessible from the Bomba Shack, with taxi rides from Roadtown costing around $15 USD. The laid-back atmosphere attracts surfers of all skill levels, but be prepared for crowds, especially during peak winter swells. While the waves can be fun and powerful, the presence of urchins and rocks necessitates careful entry. The area is known for its vibrant local scene, making it a surfer's dream getaway in the winter months.
View spotTortola - Cane Garden Bay, Tortola Cane Garden Bay features a right-hand point break over a reef with sharp rocks and sand. The waves typically break about 30 to 40 meters off the shoreline, making it essential to paddle out from the inside beach or pier. This spot works at all tides, with rising and falling tide movements, but can get ultra crowded on weekends. Located on the west coast of Tortola, this picturesque bay is known for its scenic beauty and calm waters, though it only delivers optimal surf conditions a few times a year. The best swells come from the north, while the prevailing northeast winds shape the waves. Local surfers eagerly await the prime days, as the spot fires only about 20-30 days annually. Timing your visit with a major swell can lead to an exhilarating surf experience, but be prepared for a crowd when the conditions are right.
View spotBrewers Bay - British Virgin Islands Brewers Bay features a powerful reef break with both right and left-hand waves, situated on a coral and rocky bottom. The waves are best during large north swells, making it a solid alternative to the busier Capoons Bay. The surf works at all tides, with rips adding an extra challenge for surfers. This tranquil beach offers a picturesque setting, but conditions can be unpredictable. When the north swell hits, expect a punchy point break that draws surfers to its shores. However, during quieter periods, the waves may be smaller and less thrilling, requiring patience from those looking to score. Access is straightforward, with instant entry to the water and a short drive from Cane Garden Bay. Be mindful of the rips and sharp rocks, and plan accommodations ahead, as local camping options have been lost to recent hurricanes.
View spotJosiahs Bay - Tortola This beach break features both right and left waves, with a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The wave power ranges from ordinary to fun, making it suitable for longboarding and beginners. It works best at mid and high tide, with optimal conditions from swells coming from the north, northwest, east, and northeast. Josiahs Bay is a family-friendly spot located just a 25-minute drive from Roadtown, offering instant access to the beach. With surf rentals available, it's perfect for those without gear. The atmosphere is relaxed, ideal for beginners, and the beach is equipped with a bar and restaurant. While it can get crowded on weekends, it remains relatively empty during the week. Be cautious of rips, undertow, and rocks, and remember to bring an umbrella for sun protection.
View spotLava Flow - Virgin Islands Lava Flow features a beach break with both right and left waves, breaking over a sandy bottom. The waves are known for being hollow, fast, and powerful, making it suitable for experienced surfers. Access is challenging, requiring a long walk of over 30 minutes or a 4x4 vehicle on a difficult road. This surf spot works at all tides, with optimal conditions during rising and falling tides. The ideal swell direction comes from the North, NorthWest, and West, while the wind should ideally blow from the South or SouthEast. During the week, surfers can expect an empty lineup, but weekends may see a few more riders. Caution is advised due to potential rips and undertow, making it essential for surfers to be aware of the conditions before paddling out.
View spotTurner Bay - St. John, US Virgin Islands Turner Bay features powerful left-breaking waves over a coral reef bottom, characterized by hollow and fast conditions. The spot is accessible via a short walk from the ferry dock in Cruz Bay, making it convenient for surfers looking to catch some waves. Despite its previous allure, the wave has diminished due to recent harbor developments that have altered the reef structure. It works at all tides, with optimal conditions during rising and falling tides, and is best surfed with swells from the South and SouthWest, complemented by winds from the East and Northeast. The area remains uncrowded throughout the week, but surfers should be cautious of hazards such as urchins, sharp rocks, and potential shark encounters. Local surf culture thrives at nearby Love City Surf Shack, making it a great spot to connect with fellow surfers.
View spotSpanish Town - Virgin Gorda Spanish Town features powerful, hollow right-hand reef breaks over a shallow coral bottom, making it essential to avoid falls during takeoff. The wave is best at mid to high tide with rising conditions, and it can be fast and ledgey. Access is straightforward, located at the entrance to the Spanish Town harbor, requiring a short walk. While the spot can deliver thrilling rides, it is not consistently reliable, often requiring patience for the right swell. The surrounding environment is hazardous, with urchins and coral lurking just beneath the surface, and boat traffic in the channel poses additional risks during paddling. Surfers should be cautious and choose their entry points wisely. Despite these challenges, Spanish Town attracts those seeking adventure, especially when conditions align, making it a worthwhile destination for experienced surfers.
View spotCarot Bay - Virgin Islands Carot Bay features powerful, hollow waves breaking to the right over a sharp coral reef. The spot is accessible within a five-minute walk and offers public access, making it a convenient choice for surfers seeking adventure in a remote setting. This surf spot is characterized by its mid to high tide conditions, with optimal swell coming from the north and favorable winds from the south. The atmosphere is often described as lonely and intimidating, reminiscent of the early surfing days. Surfers should be cautious of urchins and rips, which can pose dangers in the water. With minimal crowds during the week and weekends, Carot Bay provides a unique opportunity for solitude and exploration, reminiscent of its glory days in the 1970s.
View spotSandy Spit - British Virgin Islands Sandy Spit features powerful left-breaking waves over a sharp coral reef, making it ideal for experienced surfers. The wave can reach chest to head high under optimal conditions, particularly with east swell and minimal wind. Access is exclusively by boat, requiring a careful approach to avoid the shallow reef. This secluded spot offers a unique surfing experience, with the wave bending around the southern tip of the island. Surfers will find themselves riding south-west on takeoff and finishing their ride heading north-west. The atmosphere is tranquil, often with no crowds during the week or weekends. However, caution is advised due to the sharp coral, which can pose risks if wiped out. For the best experience, aim for days with east swell and favorable wind conditions.
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