BEST SURF SPOTS IN SOUTH AFRICA
There is 220 sites to discover in South Africa and 2 guides available
Available guides:
Jeffreys Bay
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Cape Town
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The Top 20 Surf spots in South Africa:
El Dumpo
El Dumpo - St. Francis Bay
El Dumpo features a sandy bottom with both right and left-breaking waves, characterized by their hollow, fast, and powerful nature. This surf spot offers instant access within 5 minutes of walking and is open to the public. It works well at all tides, making it a versatile choice for surfers.
While El Dumpo is known for its more challenging conditions, the surrounding area of St. Francis Bay provides a laid-back vibe that appeals to surfers of all levels. The scenic environment enhances the experience, making it a great location for those looking to improve their skills. Although it may not be as beginner-friendly as other spots, the combination of powerful waves and beautiful scenery makes El Dumpo a must-visit for surfers seeking both excitement and a picturesque setting.
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Killers
Killers - Cape St. Francis
Killers features powerful right-breaking waves over a rocky reef bottom, characterized by hollow, fast, and ledgey conditions. This surf spot is accessible with an instant walk of less than 5 minutes and is located next to Sixty Nines. It works best at high tide during rising tide conditions, with optimal swell coming from the southwest and south, while north winds are preferred.
Known for its challenging and intense waves, Killers attracts experienced surfers seeking adrenaline. The spot can be hectic, especially on weekends, but is generally empty during the week. Surfers should be cautious of sharp rocks and potential shark encounters. Given the fickle nature of the waves, it's crucial to monitor conditions closely to maximize your chances of catching the best surf.
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Seal Point
Seal Point - Cape St. Francis
Seal Point features a right-hand point break over flat rocks, delivering hollow, fast, and powerful waves. The spot works best at mid and high tide, with optimal conditions from swells coming from the west to southeast and winds from the northwest to west. Access is straightforward, with a parking lot at the Seal Point Lighthouse just a short walk away.
Located at the tip of the bay, Seal Point offers a mixed surf experience with two main sections divided by the Full Stop rock. While it can be inconsistent, the waves can connect nicely under the right conditions, providing fun barrels and carving opportunities. The crowd is generally sparse during the week but can swell on weekends, especially during peak seasons. Surfers should remain vigilant due to the presence of urchins, rocks, and sharks, and always respect the local surf culture to ensure a positive experience.
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Sixty Nines
Sixty Nines - South Africa
Sixty Nines features powerful, hollow waves breaking over a rocky reef with a sandy bottom, offering both right and left-hand rides. Located near Bruces Beauties, it provides instant access and works best at mid tide with rising and falling tides.
This well-known surf spot is characterized by its fast and powerful waves, attracting surfers from all over. While it can be less crowded during the week, expect a bustling scene on weekends. The ideal conditions include a north wind and swells from the southwest and south. However, surfers should be cautious of localism, sharp rocks, and the presence of sharks. With its world-class atmosphere, Sixty Nines is a must-visit for experienced surfers seeking thrilling rides.
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Supertubes (J-Bay)
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Supertubes (J-Bay) - Jeffrey's Bay, South Africa Supertubes is a renowned right-hand point break characterized by hollow, fast, and fun waves that break over a sandy bottom with rock. The wave typically works best at mid tide during rising conditions, with optimal swell from the south. Ideal wave heights range from 1 to 4 meters, offering rides that can extend over 400 meters on decent days. Located in Jeffrey's Bay, this surf spot attracts surfers globally, especially during the Billabong Pro held in July. The dynamic environment features various sections like Boneyards and Kitchen Windows, each presenting unique challenges. Surfers should be cautious of strong currents and sharp boulders, known as "bricks," when returning to the take-off point. With water temperatures between 15-19ºC, booties are advisable. J-Bay is celebrated for its exhilarating rides, making it a must-visit for skilled surfers seeking long, powerful waves. This wave get a hierarchy, begin to the last section 'Albatros' then go to the next section, depending on your level.
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Anne Avenue (St Francis Bay)
Anne Avenue (St Francis Bay) - St Francis Bay
Anne Avenue features a beach break with both right and left-hand waves, characterized by a sandy bottom and powerful, hollow, and fast conditions. The spot is accessible with instant access (less than 5 minutes) and works well at all tides, particularly with rising and falling tides.
While the atmosphere is relaxed and laid-back, the waves can get quite good, offering fun for more experienced surfers looking for hollow bombs. Although the area is frequented by a few surfers on weekends, it remains relatively empty during the week. This makes it a versatile spot, catering to both beginners and seasoned surfers alike, providing an excellent environment to hone skills amidst scenic surroundings.
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Magna Tubes
Magna Tubes - J-Bay, South Africa
Magna Tubes features a powerful right-hand reef break with hollow and fast waves, often closing out. The bottom consists of sharp coral rocks and sand, making it essential to be cautious. This spot works best at mid to high tide with rising tide conditions, and it is easily accessible within a 5-minute walk from the Beach Hotel.
Located in the renowned J-Bay area, Magna Tubes is part of a series of surf sections that attract surfers globally. The dynamic environment includes a mix of boulders and sand, providing a unique surfing experience. Be prepared for strong currents that can quickly push surfers down the point, necessitating a careful return through sharp, mussel-covered rocks. With water temperatures ranging from 15-19ºC, wearing booties is advisable. While weekdays see fewer surfers, weekends can be crowded, so respect the local vibe to ensure a pleasant experience.
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Gonubie Point
Gonubie Point - South Africa
Gonubie Point features a right point break with hollow and powerful waves, ideal for experienced surfers. The take-off occurs in a large bowl, providing excellent barrel opportunities depending on the swell direction. Best conditions are found at low and mid tide, with instant access available within a 5-minute walk.
Located in South Africa, Gonubie Point is favored for its medium E-SE swell, attracting surfers looking for quality waves. While the spot can be empty during the week, weekends may see a few surfers sharing the lineup. The nearby beach break adds versatility for those seeking different wave types. Ideal wind conditions come from the west, ensuring smooth and clean surf. Be mindful of potential dangers such as urchins, rocks, and occasional shark activity. With various accommodation options nearby, Gonubie Point is a great destination for surf enthusiasts.
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K 365
K 365 - Near Misty Cliffs, Atlantic Side
K 365 features powerful, hollow waves breaking over a rocky reef, offering both right and left-hand rides. This expert-only surf spot thrives on a 5-8 meter groundswell, best surfed during mid to high tide with a rising tide. The wave is known for its intense barrels, reminiscent of the Backdoor Pipeline when conditions are optimal.
Located just down from The Kom, K 365 is notorious for its thick, heavy waves and is not recommended for inexperienced surfers. The name reflects its unique wedge-shaped barrel, which appears to extend beyond 360 degrees. While it can produce world-class waves, the spot is often crowded on weekends and presents dangers such as urchins and sharp rocks. Surfers should be prepared for challenging conditions and respect the local vibe, as this spot demands skill and experience.
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Off The Wall
Off The Wall - Mouille Point, South Africa
Off The Wall features powerful left reef breaks over flat rocks, creating a fast, bowling wall that can close out at the end. The spot works best at low and mid tide with rising tide conditions. Access is easy, with instant access (<5 min) from the beach road in front of high-rise apartments.
Known locally as Thermopylae, this surf spot requires a decent swell to set up properly, particularly from the west or southwest. While it can be empty during the week, weekends may see a few surfers, especially when conditions are favorable. The wave's power and speed make it suitable for experienced surfers, as it can become challenging with a local crowd during good swells. Be cautious of rocks and occasional water pollution, and always check conditions before heading out.
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Cape Saint Francis
Cape Saint Francis - South Africa
Cape Saint Francis features a right-point break over a sandy bottom, delivering fast and fun waves. On smaller days, the surf reaches shoulder height, ideal for longboards, while larger swells can break up to 15 miles out, accommodating both longboards and shortboards. The spot works well at all tides.
Accessing this remote surf location requires a long walk of over 30 minutes across a vast desert landscape. The atmosphere is tranquil, with minimal crowds during the week and only a few surfers on weekends. Optimal conditions occur with a south wind and swells from various directions, including north and northwest. This spot is famously highlighted in the classic surf film "Endless Summer I," making it a must-visit for dedicated surfers seeking a unique experience.
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Paradise
Paradise - Location
Paradise features a left-breaking beach break with a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The waves are known for being hollow, fast, and powerful, making it an exciting spot for experienced surfers. Access is instant, requiring less than 5 minutes of walking, and it is publicly accessible.
This surf spot thrives at mid and high tide, with rising and falling tides providing optimal conditions. The area remains uncrowded during both weekdays and weekends, allowing for a more enjoyable surfing experience. However, surfers should be cautious of rips and undertow, which can pose dangers. Overall, Paradise offers a unique blend of challenging waves and accessibility, making it a hidden gem for those in the know.
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Krans
Krans - Long Beach, Kommetjie
Krans is a powerful beach break featuring hollow and fast waves that break both right and left over a sandy bottom. This spot works well at all tides, particularly with a rising tide, and is best suited for experienced surfers due to its heavy conditions, especially when the swell exceeds 1.2 meters.
Located on the scenic Cape Peninsula, Long Beach is a popular destination for surfers seeking solid sessions. The beach faces north, making it ideal when the wind blows from the south. While it can get crowded on good days, there’s often space to find your wave. The spot is known for producing fantastic tube rides, especially for those who can navigate the challenging take-offs. With a short walk to the beach and easy access from Fish Hoek, Krans is a must-visit for surfers looking to test their skills in powerful surf.
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Llandudno
Llandudno - Cape Peninsula, South Africa
Llandudno features a beach break with both right and left-hand waves over a sandy bottom. The spot is known for its hollow waves, particularly at the first peak, The Gat, which can produce intense barrels under optimal conditions. Access is easy, with instant access from the parking lot via steps down to the beach.
This popular surf destination offers a laid-back vibe, attracting both locals and visitors. The waves are best with an east wind, which cleans up the surf, and it works at all tides. While the summer months draw crowds, especially on weekends, the spot can be fickle and is prone to localism. Surfers should be prepared for chilly water temperatures, particularly when the southeast winds blow offshore. Llandudno's scenic beauty and sheltered location make it a must-visit for surf enthusiasts.
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Dunes
Dunes (Noordhoek) - South Africa
Dunes is a powerful beach break characterized by hollow waves breaking to the right and left over sandy bottoms. The spot is best accessed by driving to the Noordhoek Beach car park and undertaking a long walk of over 30 minutes along the beach. It works well at mid and high tide, with favorable conditions when the wind blows from the southeast.
Stretching over 3.5 km of golden sands, Noordhoek offers fairly consistent waves, making it an appealing choice for surfers. The ambiance is tranquil, especially as crowds thin out with distance from the car park. While the beach provides ample space for surfers to find their own spot, caution is advised due to the presence of rips and undertow, as well as a notable shark presence in the area. A thick wetsuit is recommended, particularly during low tide when water temperatures drop. Enjoy the unspoiled beauty and surf vibes of this stunning location.
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Umtentweni
Umtentweni - Port Shepstone
Umtentweni features a sandy bottom with both right and left breaking waves, offering a mix of hollow and ordinary power. The spot is easily accessible, located just off the Umtentweni off ramp before entering Port Shepstone, with instant access within 5 minutes.
This regional classic is known for its long-running beach and relatively active local crew. It provides a variety of wave types, making it a prime destination when conditions are optimal. The waves work well during rising and falling tides, with favorable wind from the northwest and west. While the beach is often empty during the week and weekends, surfers should be cautious of rocks and localism. On certain days, the shorebreak can be intense, presenting a challenge for surfers.
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Ducks
Ducks - South Africa
Ducks features a reef break with both right and left-hand waves, characterized by a combination of coral and sharp rocks over sand. This spot is best surfed at mid tide during falling tide conditions, providing a unique surfing experience sheltered from the northeast winds.
Located in a picturesque bay, Ducks offers instant access within a five-minute walk from the seals. The atmosphere is generally relaxed, with few surfers on weekends and an empty lineup during the week. While the waves can get good, surfers should remain vigilant due to the presence of sharks in the area. This spot is typically a summer destination, making it ideal for those looking to enjoy quality surf in a scenic environment.
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Bruce's Beauties
Bruce's Beauties - Cape St. Francis
Bruce's Beauties is a right-hand point break characterized by hollow, fast, and powerful waves breaking over a boulder-strewn bottom. This top-class surf spot works best at low and mid tide during falling tide conditions, with optimal swell coming from the southeast or east and wind from the southwest.
Located near Cape St. Francis, this spot is renowned for its challenging waves, attracting experienced surfers seeking intensity. The waves can be inconsistent, making it essential to monitor conditions closely for the best experience. While crowds are generally sparse during the week, weekends can see an influx of surfers, particularly from nearby J Bay. Be mindful of potential dangers such as rips, undertow, and rocks, and ensure you are well-prepared before paddling out to enjoy the exhilarating surf at Bruce's Beauties. Access is straightforward, with a quick walk from the parking area.
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Kokkerot
Kokkerot - South Africa
Kokkerot features a right-breaking reef wave with a hollow power, situated on a rocky bottom. This secret spot is located between Hermanus and Pringle Bay, requiring a challenging 1 km walk from the main road. Access is public, but caution is advised due to the remote location.
The wave works best at low tide during rising swells from the west, making it ideal for experienced surfers. The area is generally empty during the week, with only a few surfers on weekends. However, potential dangers include rips, sharp rocks, and the presence of sharks. It is highly recommended to visit with someone familiar with the spot, as the isolation can pose risks in case of injury. Happy hunting for this hidden gem!
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Boneyards
Boneyards - J-Bay, South Africa
Boneyards is a powerful point break featuring both right and left waves over a sharp coral and rock bottom. The waves are known for being hollow, fast, and ledgey, providing a thrilling ride for experienced surfers. This spot works best at mid to high tide with rising conditions, particularly when the swell comes from the southwest or south.
Located next to the famous Supertubes, Boneyards offers a dynamic surfing experience with various sections that can produce heart-stopping barrels. The area is accessible within a five-minute walk and is generally less crowded during the week, though weekends can see a surge in surfers. Be cautious of localism and the sharp rocks that can pose dangers. With water temperatures ranging from 15-19ºC, wearing booties is advisable. Boneyards is a must-visit for those seeking exhilarating rides in a stunning coastal environment.
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Other guides available in South Africa :
