Last updated on December 13th, 2023 at 04:25 pm
If you are looking for the best surf spots in South Africa, you came to the right place. In this surf guide to South Africa, you will find all the information you need for your next surf trip, including travel tips, surf seasons, and the best surf beaches in South Africa.
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About Surfing in South Africa
Surfing in South Africa means riding perfect waves, being surrounded by wild nature, and exploring a fascinating culture. Whether you are a beginner or a pro surfer, this fantastic country has something for everyone. In fact, it is probably one of the best surf destinations in the world.
The hype around surfing in South Africa began when the iconic movie “Endless Summer” emerged. We all remember that scene with the perfectly long waves, representing any surfer’s wet dream. Nowadays, it is a known fact that South Africa is home to countless number of perfect surf spots. Actually, you can find beach breaks, reefs, and point breaks; this country has it all.
South Africa is the land of wild nature. In fact, when traveling here, you can see animals that you won’t see anywhere else. From lions to elephants and great whites, it can definitely be a scary experience to be around those, but it’s impossible not to admire this exotic beauty.
The South African Coastline stretches over 2,500 KM (1,600 miles). While the East Coast faces the warm Indian Ocean, the West meets the cold Atlantic. For that reason, South Africa is one of the most consistent surf destinations out there. With such a diverse coastline, you can always find a beach with good waves to ride. Despite having a population of about 60 Million people, plus tourists and foreigners, when surfing in South Africa, you will barely have to deal with crowds. Unlike other places, it seems like here, there are just enough waves for everyone.
You probably heard stories about cold water and white sharks. Well, true, the water is indeed cold, and the sharks are out there, and yet, every year, more and more surfers enjoy the perfect surf in South Africa, and nothing bad happens to them. So what are you waiting for? Get your flight ticket, grab your surfboard, and come to discover the magic of surfing in South Africa.
The Best Surf Spots in South Africa
Being such a huge country, there are countless surf spots in South Africa, which can be divided into 3 areas- East, South, and West Coast. So, in detail, these are the best surf spots in South Africa:
Surf Spots in South Africa’s East Coast- Durban Area
Durban:
Break type- Beach break.
Skill level- All Levels.
Description- Apart from being a great tourist destination, Durban is a surfer’s paradise. The weather here is warmer than on the South and West Coasts, and the water temperature is also warmer. Most importantly, it offers a great variety of surf spots for any swell direction and any skill level. In general, the waves in the south part of the city are smaller and more beginner-friendly, and as you head north, the waves are bigger and more challenging. Do not miss out on the best breaks at New Pier.
(Read more in our post about surfing in Durban).
Green Point:
Break type- Point break.
Skill level- Intermediate to advanced.
Description- This right-hand point break is located south of Durban, next to Scottburgh. Actually, it is one of the best surf spots in South Africa and other than on weekends, it is never too crowded.
Wild Coast:
Break type- Point break.
Skill level- Intermediate to advanced.
Description- This is a beautiful isolated area next to Port Edward. If you come to surf here, you will find perfect waves with anyone riding them. Coffee Bay Point and Breezy Point (Ntloyane) are the most popular breaks around, but there are many others as well. Unfortunately, there have been several shark attacks here, so many surfers avoid coming here despite the high quality of the waves.
Surf Spots in South Africa’s South Coast- Port Elizabeth Area
Jeffrey’s Bay:
Break type- Point break.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- “J-Bay”, In short, is the most famous surf spot in South Africa and definitely one of the best breaks in the world. In fact, it hosts the annual “J-Bay Open” WSL event, and it is very common to see famous surfers such as Jordy Smith, Kelly Slater, and Mick Fanning surf here. With its perfect barrels, this right-hand point break earned its reputation for a good reason, and it is the main reason surfers come to surf in South Africa.
St Francis Bay:
Break type- Point break.
Skill level- Intermediate.
Description- This spot is pure perfection when the swell comes from the South East and the wind from North West. Actually, this is the one from the movie Endless Summer, with the long right-hand barrels. According to some locals, this spot is not as perfect as it was anymore, but if the conditions are right, it is still a true surfing diamond.
Surf Spots in South Africa’s West Coast-Cape Town Area
Muizenberg:
Break type- Beach break.
Skill level- Beginner.
Description- According to local surfers, Muizenberg is where the South African surf scene started many years ago. Although you will not find any perfect point breaks of massive tube rides here, it is a very popular beach, especially among longboarders and beginners.
Long Beach:
Break type- Beach break.
Skill level- Intermediate.
Description- A bit south of Cape Town, next to the town of Kommetjie, this beach strip is one of the most consistent surf beaches in South Africa. Luckily, there are several peaks to choose from at Long Beach, and it performs well even when the swell is too small in all the other spots around.
Dunes:
Break type- A-frame.
Skill level- Intermediate.
Description- Dunes is a typical A-frame break. It can handle up to 10-foot swell, and due to its high quality, it can get pretty crowded.
Dungeons (Hout Bay):
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- This is a big wave spot, suitable for experts only. Moreover, you will have to take a boat ride to reach this wave, as there is no way to get here from shore. Amazingly, the waves here can get up to 15-30 feet and crush over a rocky bottom with frightening power, so surf it only if you know what you are doing.
Llandudno:
Break type- Reef break.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- If you can handle massive barrels over a shallow reef, you will absolutely love this spot. It is dangerous and definitely not beginner-friendly, but it is lots of fun for advanced surfers.
Eland’s Bay:
Break type- Point break.
Skill level- Intermediate.
Description- About a 3-hour drive north of Cape Town, you will find this perfect left-hand point break. This spot actually performs better during summertime and produces exceptionally long rides. Due to its location, the water here is colder than most other surf spots in South Africa, and luckily, it is never crowded.
(Read more in our post about surfing in Cape Town).
If you are new to surfing and looking for beginner waves, check out our post about the best beginner surf beaches in South Africa.
Surf Seasons in South Africa
In general, you can surf in South Africa year-round. Since its coastline faces East, South, and West and has different capes, wherever the swell is coming from, some beaches will pick it up. However, if you want to score the best conditions for your surf trip, the winter is definitely the best time to go.
The South African winter lasts from April to September. During these months, the south swells consistently hit the South African beaches. The swell size usually ranges from 5 to 15 feet, and offshore winds blow, especially in the mornings. If you are after the big waves, July and August are the best months. Otherwise, just aim for the other months of the season.
The Weather in South Africa is very unpredictable. For instance, you can sometimes witness all 4 seasons in 1 single day. But in general, during winter time, the air temp ranges from 10°C to 20°C (50°F-68°F) and the water temp from 15°C to 20°C (59°F-68°F). Therefore, you must wear a long 3/2 wetsuit when surfing in South Africa.
Surf Camps in South Africa
If you are a beginner making his first steps in the surfing world, the best way to explore the surf beaches of South Africa is at a surf camp. So, these are the most recommended surf camps in South Africa:
1. Pumula Surf Camp Durban– The camp offers surf lessons to all levels, from beginner to advanced, board rentals, and guided surf trips to give you the best surfing experience on the South Coast.
For more details about Durban surf camps, please click here.
2. Surf Emporium, Cape Town– Surf Emporium, situated on the Muizenberg beachfront in Cape Town, offers an accredited Surf and SUP school, high-quality equipment rental, and a leading surf and SUP brand retailer.
For more information about surf camps in Cape Town, please click here.
3. Surf Lodge South Africa– The camp is situated in Jeffreys Bay, one of the best surf spots in the country. It offers a variety of surf courses for all skill levels.
For more details about surf camps in Jeffreys Bay, please click here.
Surf Hotels in South Africa
When coming to surf in South Africa, you want to stay in the best place possible, which means as close as possible to the best spots. So, these are some of the most recommended surf hotels in the country:
1. Blue Waters Hotel, Durban– Opposite Durban’s famous beachfront, Blue Waters Hotel is within walking distance of the Suncoast Casino and the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium. Both uShaka Marine World and Greyville Racecourse are within 4 km from the property.
2. Surferscorner Self Catering Apartments, Cape Town– Surferscorner offers deluxe self-catering apartments along the long white sandy Muizenberg Beach. Guests can take surfing lessons and enjoy the vibrant waterfront with coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants. WiFi is available in public areas.
3. Soul Searchers, Jeffrey’s Bay– Set in Jeffreys Bay, 600 m from Kabeljauws Beach, Soul Searchers offers accommodation with a shared lounge, free private parking, a garden, and barbecue facilities. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a sun terrace. The accommodation features a shared kitchen and free WiFi throughout the property.
For more surf hotels in South Africa, check out our post about the best surf resorts in South Africa, or simply look for deals on Booking.com.
What Skill Level is Required to Surf in South Africa
As mentioned, there are many surf spots in South Africa, so surfers of all levels can find breaks that suit their skills. For instance, beginners can surf mellow waves in spots like Muizenberg. Intermediate surfers, though, will find more challenging waves in spots like Long Beach or Dunes. And finally, if you are an advanced surfer, you can ride Giant barrels at Jeffreys Bay.
Which Place in South Africa is Best to Stay At
On a surf trip, it is best to focus on one area to spend more time surfing and less traveling. However, there are many great surf beaches in South Africa, and sometimes, it can be hard to choose where to stay. So, considering the waves and the general atmosphere of the place, these are the most recommended locations to stay at:
1. Durban– Durban’s weather and water temperature are more convenient than the rest of the coastline, and the waves are spectacular. Moreover, you can enjoy everything a big city has to offer.
2. Cape Town– Here, you will find the greatest selection of surf spots in South Africa. There are waves for any swell condition and every skill level.
3. Jeffreys Bay– This location is recommended only for experienced surfers who come specifically to surf this famous wave.
South Africa- Travel Information
Language– English, Zulu, and several other African languages.
Population– about 60 million.
Currency– South African rand (ZAR).
Calling code– +27.
Time zone– GMT +2.
Pros– world-class waves.
Cons– cold water, sharks, not so safe.
Conclusion- Final Thought
To sum up, when surfing in South Africa, you will discover a wild country with fascinating culture and incredible waves. There are several World-class surf spots in South Africa, and it is undoubtedly one of the best surf destinations in the world.
Before you go, if you want to find other great surf destinations in Africa, check out Morocco, the land of right hand point breaks.
