The Republic of South Africa, located at the southern tip of Africa, is a large country with over 50 million people, offering a wide array of surfing possibilities.
South Africa cops plenty of swell from antarctic lows and is surrounded by the ocean on three sides (all but the north) which makes for huge surfing possibilities. It's 3 000 km coastline has a 270 degree exposure to the swells that may be on offer, so we are talking about lots and lots of waves. The massive coast ensures empty waves can be found.
South Africa is famous for its sunshine. Generally speaking, April and May are the most pleasant months. The rainy season over the summer-rainfall region has then ended, while it has not yet really started in the winter-rainfall area. March to September sees the best surf, the Roaring Forties provide all the swells you are going to need. The surf can be anywhere in the 6-15ft range, but there are spots that will hold much bigger.
Friendly welcoming locals, views that’ll leave you breathless, food like you’ve never had it before, and countless uncrowded barrels to choose from. If you’re looking for a super rad surf trip off the beaten path and minus the crowds, put South Africa at the top of your list.
South Africa is a large country with heaps of coastline, so this Guide will mostly focus on surfing the Western Cape of South Africa (near Cape Town). This stretch of coastline is ripe with all kinds of waves from your dreams.
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To give you best local info out there, we’ve brought South African surfer and surf guide extraordinaire Ru de Bruin on board to give you the lowdown on surfing South Africa. Ru and his team are made up of experienced local surf guides who bring a wealth of local wave knowledge to the table and make sure you’re at the right place at the right time. With a great price point, newly remodeled surf lodge, and a serious appreciation for good food and beer, these guys are on-point.
We’ll cover travel basics, the waves, surf trip costs, transportation, where to stay, and of course, food. You could spend your time sipping exquisite wines in old Dutch vineyards, or hiking between waterfalls & secret pools.
The 3000kms of coastline at the bottom of the African continent boast beautiful beaches and bays of consistent waves from Durban to Cape Town. The locals are friendly, the food great and you can surf quality waves over reefs, points and beach breaks almost all year around.
South African surf conditions vary widely-from the frigid barrels of the west coast to the tropical fun waves of Durban.
Winter (June to August) typically brings bigger swells on the west coast, while summer (November to February) is better for the east coast. Whether you’re looking to catch the perfect barrel, improve your technique, or just soak up those laid-back beach vibes, South Africa’s surf spots are unmissable.
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Surf South Africa and experience one of the most diverse coastlines on the planet. From icy Atlantic barrels to warm Indian Ocean point breaks, South Africa offers surf conditions for every skill level.
How to Surf | 7 Tips Beginners Need to Know to Start Surfing
When it comes to surfing, every surfer has a unique preference. Some adjust their lifestyle and make bold choices to live in locations that align with their ideal surf conditions.
South Africa is a dream destination for surfers, boasting 2,800 km of coastline with diverse surf conditions. From the frigid Atlantic Ocean to the warm, tropical waters of the Indian Ocean, this country has waves for every skill level.
The west coast and Cape Peninsula offer a classic desert feel with a sub-Saharan climate-hot, dry, and windy for most of the year. The winter months (May to August) bring powerful swells across the Atlantic, often originating near South America.
The east coast, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans merge, is warmer, rich in marine life, and packed with incredible surf. As you move towards Durban, the coastline becomes more tropical and humid, resembling an island paradise. With warm water, beach breaks, and jetty waves, the Durban area offers fun, although inconsistent surf year-round.
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Beginner-Friendly Surf Spots
A big part of their progression comes from surfing waves that are conducive to improving, waves that best accommodate your skill level and objectives.
Since we mainly work with people with very limited surfing experience, the spots we select for our lessons are ones we would also recommend to the general beginner surfer.
Muizenberg Beach
Just 25 minutes from Cape Town’s CBD, Muizenberg is a world-famous beginner-friendly surf spot.
Known for its vibrant, colourful beach huts that make the shoreline instantly recognizable, Muizenberg Beach is one of the best places in South Africa for beginner surfers thanks to its gentle waves and friendly community. This inclusive surf spot welcomes board riders of all levels and has plenty of surf schools to show you the ropes.
Probably the best beginner or ‘learn to surf’ wave in the world that we’ve been to and it’s why we strategically base ourselves here for the duration of our 2-week stay in Cape Town, don’t be fooled though there is a lot of value in this wave for intermediate surfers as well. Generally regarded as a Longboarders wave this flat sand bottom wave in False Bay is the perfect place for us as coaches to assess our riders abilities and set them on their way to being fully fledged independent surfers.
If you’re wanting to learn how to surf or you’re just a beginner trying to find your feet we recommend Muizenberg with it’s vibey beachfront, lifeguards on duty, shark spotters, surf schools and surf shops littered across the beachfront. It’s an easy place to pick up a rental board and wetsuit and get in the water for your first attempt at surfing, you wouldn’t be out of place either with plenty other people in the water also trying their hand at this fast growing sport, we’d recommend you try out a session or two with one of the local surf coaches before you try going out on your own, the right information and equipment is vital for beginners in this sport.
Muizenberg Beach
Big Bay
Much like Muizenberg beach, Big Bay is also a great spot for complete novice surfers. You could say it is almost the Atlantic’s equivalent to Muizenberg with its user-friendly waves, vibey beachfront, lifeguards and the like.
Big Bay, however, does offer more in terms of power, it gets a bit more swell than False Bay and the wave stands up a bit steeper, it is the perfect stepping stone up from Muizenberg on your way to being an established surfer, great options for when Muizenberg is onshore. Other factors that also come into play at Big Bay are rocks and rip currents, the rocks are situated on either end of the beach but the wave itself is sand-bottomed. Rip currents aren’t too strong but they are present so best be aware of how you drift in the line-up. The water is also a bit colder than that of Muizenberg so be sure to pack a good wetsuit.
Victoria Bay (Vic Bay)
Victoria Bay, or Vic Bay, is a cozy cove just off the Garden Route. Known for its mellow vibe and friendly atmosphere, Vic Bay is perfect for beginners or longboarders who are surfing South Africa and want to build up some confidence before hitting the more popular spots. Its tight-knit surfing community means you'll make friends if you're a repeat visitor, and its forgiving waves will have you believing you're a pro surfer in no time. While Vic Bay can get crowded on busy days, it's a lot less hectic than other spots.
Durban’s Golden Mile
Durban’s Golden Mile is a prime example of a South Africa beach that draws surfers from around the world. The city's subtropical climate is ideal for those who love the waves but hate the cold, with warmer temperatures that don't require heavy wetsuits. Durban’s New Pier and North Beach are two of the most popular areas, although you'll find international surfing events up and down the coast. The surf scene in Durban is a key part of the city’s culture, with showers, changing rooms, and board rentals all widely available close to the shore.
Coffee Bay
On the stunning Wild Coast in the Eastern Cape, Coffee Bay is a top hit with backpackers and budget travellers, with easygoing waves to match. Its steep cliffs, rolling green hills, and the iconic Hole in the Wall rock formation mean this stretch of the country is a must-visit, while its chilled-out vibe and mellow waters make it a great place to take a breather between the bigger breaks on your trip. Most surf spots in Coffee Bay are reef and beach breaks, and Coffee Bay's year-round consistency makes it one of our favourite places when surfing South Africa.
Mdumbi
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path surf adventure, put Mdumbi on the Wild Coast on your radar. This remote spot, the next river mouth up from Coffee Bay, is a must-visit with its uncrowded beach breaks and stunning rural scenery. Surfing here offers an opportunity to connect with nature and the local Xhosa culture in ways you won’t find in more developed surf towns.
Intermediate Surf Spots
Long Beach (Kommetjie)
Probably a wave for mostly intermediate to experienced surfers, it is also an option for the more savvy beginner looking to really test themselves. It’s best to go on a quieter weekday when there is less competition at the peak for a wave to ensure you have a comfortable time out in the water. On smaller days it is very manageable but also offers many new challenges for beginners. Surf etiquette is a necessity here unlike Muizenberg and Big Bay where it is to a lesser extent because at Long Beach you’re likely to be surfing amongst a few really good surfers and it is important that you respect the rules of the line-up and respect the locals.
Known for its stunning views of the Cape Peninsula, Kommetjie's main highlight is Long Beach, which lives up to its name and provides plenty of space for surfers to spread out. Ideal for different skill levels, Kommetjie is a fail-safe surf spot with excellent waves practically every day of the year.
Witsands Corner
Just around the corner from Long Beach, you’ll find Witsands, when the North Wester is blowing and there aren’t any waves at Muizenberg the next best place you can head to as a beginner to intermediate surfer is Witsands corner. From high up the hill, the conditions may sometimes look small but once down on the white beach, you’ll find it to be quite different. The general area is very rural with no facilities nearby, the waves can get very big and rip currents are a real threat here, but on small days it can be quite an amazing wave if the sandbanks are good, otherwise it can get a bit dumpy but like I said before there is always something you can work on out in the water. Another cold water sand bottomed wave perfect for testing yourself on.
Advanced Surf Spots
Some of the best and most renowned waves require a higher skill level and aren’t recommended for those who are just starting out. Be safe, and ensure you understand the tides before heading out, as some spots can get pretty heavy.
Jeffreys Bay (J-Bay)
If you're already part of the surfing world, you're probably familiar with Jeffreys Bay. J-Bay is arguably the crown jewel of South African surfing. Located in the Eastern Cape, J-Bay is celebrated for its long, fast, and perfectly formed right-hand point break. Waves can reach up to 3m (10 ft). Its Supertubes section is particularly famous, offering the kind of barrels surfers dream about perfecting. No matter how long you spend surfing South Africa, it's worth stopping by J-Bay just to watch the locals.
Jeffrey’s Bay (J-Bay) is worth the trip alone! Easily South Africa’s most famous wave and said to be one of the best righthanders on the planet. It works best in July and August when there are usually back-to-back swells with a good period to help join up the sections at the east-facing spot of J-Bay. Jeffrey’s Bay is world-renowned for its different surf breaks such as, Kitchen Windows, Magna Tubes, Boneyards, Super Tubes, Salad Bowls, Tubes, Points & Albatross, each possessing its own magic.
J-Bay Surf Breaks:
- Magna Tubes: Here you’ll find fast powerful and classic waves, as good as anywhere else.
- Supertubes: The waves here can get large (up to about 10-12 feet). This is the ultimate test of your surfing ability. It is very fast, powerful, and very long. As the name suggests, getting tubed is the name of the game. Suitable only for advanced surfers.
- Point: The Point is super enjoyable with cutback sections and everything else you could possibly want from a wave. The waves here tend to be a little smaller than those at Boneyards and Supers. The difference is, that you will have a much longer ride here than at the other two.
Jeffreys Bay
Cape St. Francis
A short drive from J-Bay, Cape St. Francis is a legendary spot known for its consistent and clean waves. This surf town has a chilled-out vibe with excellent right-handers and beach breaks suitable for all skill levels. Cape St. Francis made waves in the 1966 surf movie The Endless Summer, and it's been a must-surf destination ever since.
Dungeons (Hout Bay)
While its name might seem intimidating, Dungeons at Hout Bay is a brilliant place to test your nerve. If you’re an experienced big-wave surfer, Dungeons should be on your list. Just outside Cape Town, this spot is famous for its monster waves, with swells reaching up to 18m (60 ft) in winter. Not for the faint-hearted, Dungeons is best suited to seasoned surfers familiar with powerful, complex waves.
Other Notable Surf Breaks
- Cave Rock: Short, perfect and hollow wave in the Durban area.
- Elands Bay: Long lefthander on the remote west coast above Cape Town
- Sunset: Just one of the half dozen big wave breaks that make Cape Town one of the most hardcore surf destinations anywhere.
- Bruce’s Beauties: As folklore has it: A century ago, a guy called Bruce went to search the perfect wave…Here is where he found it. Bruce’s Beauties has the A-class wave, just as Super Tubes. It has a very fast, powerful and hollow wave. This is where you can see the masters at work. Only down-side, it is very inconsistent and breaks only a few days a year.
- Seal Point: A bit further, you’ll find a spot for all surfers, called Seals Point. The waves are less hollow as Bruce’s but on a good day, they can offer a long ride.
- Huletts: Situated between Bruce’s Beauties and Anne’s Avenue - another hollow, fast and ledgy wave that’s very consistent. Huletts is appropriate for surfers of all level, so once you master Huletts, you could give Bruce’s a try.
- Boneyards: Right next to Super Tubes. You’ll recognize it with ease, as it is the spot where the waves are breaking almost perfectly, but there are only one or two guys sitting out there. Don’t be fooled, this is a locals only break and they take it as a serious offence if you as an outsider decide to surf there. Yeah, it may have the better wave, but that is the bonus of being a local at Jeffrey’s Bay for quite some period of time.
When to Go
The seasons are the well defined southern hemisphere seasons of summer (December until February), autumn (March until May), winter (June until August) and spring (September - November). Surfing is best done when the Roaring Forties provide the best swells from March to September. Waves usually range 6-15ft, but you will come across much bigger waves in certain spots. In summer the swell tends to be a bit smaller with some fun waves to surf at the many beach breaks. The exception is the Durban area, where the waves generated from the hurricane swells from December until February can turn the sand bottom pointbreaks into grinding tubes.
The east coast is in a subtropical climate area and wraps around the Western Cape up the Garden Route towards Port Elizabeth. This area is usually hot and sunny during the summer months and mild and wet during winter.
Weather
WEATHER: The weather varies from region to region in South Africa, but in general it is mild and comfortable, with usually hot and sunny summers and colder winters. Cape Town is notorious for its unpredictable weather and having the ability to give us all four seasons in one day. The wind can get VERY strong, particularly in the summer months. This makes Cape Town the kitesurfing hub it is. Summer begins in November and lasts until the end of February, with an average temperature of around 23 degrees (73°F), and reaching over 35 degrees (95°F) on hot days.
Water Temperature
Summer months (November - February) the water ranges from 9 to 13 degrees (48 - 55°F) around the Cape Peninsula and West Coast, and the East Coast gets slightly warmer and can get up to 20 degrees (68°F) at times.
First things first: the water at Llandudno Beach is chilly, so you'll want to don a wetsuit year-round when surfing here. Cape Town’s Atlantic beaches are notoriously cold.
Essential Travel Information
Money
Our currency is the South African Rand. Due to our newly fired ex-president, Jacob Zuma’s mismanagement of the country, the South African Rand is weak in comparison to most other currencies-which means a helluva good time for visitors!
Staying Connected
Internet and mobile data is one of the few things that are quite expensive for people visiting South Africa. You’re looking at around R150 for 1 Gig of data on your mobile. Most bars and restaurants, hotels and lodges in the major cities have wifi, so that makes things a bit easier when wanting to stay connected. Many of the surf spots we take our guests to (which are further up the West Coast and a bit more off the beaten path) have absolutely zero internet or phone reception.
Getting to the Surf
You will need to make use of cars and drive yourself as there are no reliable sources of public transport. For many of the lesser-known spots, you’ll need 4×4 capabilities (we’ll elaborate on this in the transport section farther below).
Local Insights
Cape Town is an amazing place with world class setups. There’s always swell around and its always offshore somewhere. You just have to commit to the search, and you’re bound to find the gems. So many people are afraid to visit South Africa because of the negative aspects portrayed in the media about our country. If we, as South African locals, could emphasize any one point about South Africa, it’s that it is 100% possible to have a safe & incredible surf holiday here. It’s all about ensuring that you do enough research before heading out on your own, or-try and travel with a local guide.
Types of Surf Breaks
All kinds of breaks, beach breaks, reefs, slabs, wedges, point breaks. We’ve got it all. It’s just a case of where, and when.
Accommodation and Food Costs
Let’s start with accommodation. Pricing for places to stay can range from R250 to R1000 plus ( $21 - $83+ USD) per person per night. Like most places, the cheap options will be basic and most of the time not in a convenient area, while more expensive accommodation will be nicer and in a better location. Fuel is a big expense where it costs you R13.50 a liter ($1.12 USD), and the more you drive the more money you will spend. On the food side of things, meals will set you back anything from R30 to R150 ($2.50 - $12.50 USD) a meal. Coffee is at around R25 ($2 USD) at most places and a beer will cost about the same. Personally, for me, I think R1000 a day ($83 USD) will give you more than enough to get around, eat well and stay in a nice place. In the lower budget range (less than $50 USD per night) there are heaps of hostels around the city and self-accommodation that you can locate on Airbnb or booking.com. In the luxury realm (over $150 per night) you can find luxury hotels all over the place but choose carefully because they can come with a very high price while offering around the same level of service as a good guesthouse. There are many of campsites and self-catering accommodation along the coast that you could choose from. Traveling here in winter is the cheapest, for obvious reasons.
Transportation
Right, so public transport is a bit of an issue here-we won’t sugar coat it. It’s generally unsafe to use public trains or buses that are not the newest MyCity buses. The public trains are notorious for muggings and crime. Public minibusses and taxis are also generally considered unsafe for tourists. The drivers tend to ignore general road rules and there’s high rate of accidents in minibusses. Luckily, we have Uber in most places now-which is safe, and affordable. You can also hire transport at the airport which is an affordable option. There are even low-cost hiring companies which offer lower-end cars at a fraction of the price (e.g. ‘rent-a-cheapie’ is popular among surfers in Cape Town). If you’re looking to find some of the lesser-known surf spots, you’ll need a 4×4 vehicle, and there’s not likely to be mobile reception to use your navigation system.
