Northland's extensive coastline offers a diverse range of surf spots, from the powerful west coast breaks to the more sheltered east coast beaches. The region benefits from both summer and winter swells, with spots like Sandy Bay and Shipwreck Bay providing world-class waves. The warm climate and varied conditions make it an attractive year-round surfing destination.

Exposed beach along the West Coast, situated midway up the Aupouri Peninsula. Unsteady sandbanks might offer opportunities during a minor SW swell. Winds blowing from the NE create offshore conditions.

The Bluff

Collection of outstanding left-hand point and reef breaks at Ahipara. Each spot demands unique combinations of swell and wind, though typically, massive long period SW swells are what you're after. Traveling further around the point reduces protection from both wind and swell. Optimal winds blow from the SE to SW. Show courtesy to both the local surfers and the natural surroundings.

**The forecast graph data provided below applies to the open coast**

Shippies

Great open beach break located just south of Hokianga harbour. Movable peaks are scattered along the beach. Offshore winds blow from a NE direction. Multiple reefs are situated along this shoreline.

Waimamaku

Uncovered coastal break near Dargaville. Movable peaks scattered along the beach during smaller swells. Favorable offshore winds come from the NE. Dargaville boasts a quality pump track and skate park. [Click here](https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/b5ba3f8e3f96421f97efbd749e4f8292) to explore the region's history through [Te Kahu o Taonui](https://www.tkot.org.nz/).

Baylys Beach

Piha, a notable West Coast strand just outside West Auckland, is bisected by Te Piha ([Lion Rock](https://www.piha.co.nz/lion-rock/)), dividing it into its North and South sections. Its name, bestowed by Mana Whenua [Te Kawerau a Maki](https://tekawerau.iwi.nz/), alludes to the wave patterns created by a canoe's prow. South Piha is known for its unpredictable sandbars and a transient left break, along with a reform wave at high tide. North Piha features shifting sandbanks along its length. The best conditions are under ENE winds. To the south lies Karekare, nestled over the hill. Expect crowds during the summer season.

Piha

Ideal mid-point surf spot on the Aupouri Peninsula. Anticipate top-notch, forceful waves along the shore, providing excellent tubes, especially near the various reef areas. Reliable surf spot favoring NE and E swells. SW winds create the perfect offshore conditions.

Henderson Bay

Lovely surf spot nestled between Kerikeri and Kaitaia. It benefits from some shelter, requiring a solid N or NE swell to come alive. Delivers top-notch, powerful peaks along the shore, with the occasional right-hand point/bank towards the south. Prefers offshore winds from the SW.

Taupo Bay

Cozy beach spot just north of Kerikeri. Welcomes large NE swells or moderate SE swells. Favors offshore winds coming from the NW. Nearby, there are excellent N oriented surf breaks on private properties.

Matauri Bay

Unpredictable beach and bar break on secluded land north of Kerikeri. Primarily catches swells from the NE. Benefits from offshore winds blowing from the SW. The area boasts several excellent N facing breaks nearby, all located on private property.

Tākou Bay

Pleasant shore break located to the east of Russell. Attracts East and SE swells. Benefits from offshore winds blowing from the West. Northern beaches offer protection from NW winds.

Elliot Bay

Standard shifting beach break configuration, catching swells from various directions. The southern tip offers some protection against SE winds for those in need. Tends to fill up during the summer and weekends. The Sandy Bay surf outlook is a reliable gauge for nearby conditions, with a tendency to pick up more swell than more protected areas.

Sandy Bay

Ocean Beach offers a classic variable East Coast surf experience, shining on its prime days. The preferred winds blow from the SW, though alternative locations along the coast cater to unpredictable wind patterns. The local area boasts a quality skatepark and Parua Bay G.A.S. for your wax needs.

Ocean Beach

Bream Bay stretches in a wide arc, situated south of Whangārei and north of Mangawhai. Nestled at its northern tip, Ruakākā enjoys protection from the northeast swell. It serves as an excellent choice during northwest winds, offering up hollow peaks when a solid northeast swell rolls in. Scattered along the beach, you'll find notable spots like 'Racecourse,' 'Powerstations,' among others. The bay curves at its southern extremity towards Waipū, which becomes offshore with a southwest wind.

Ruakākā

Waipū Cove offers a solid beach break on the East Coast at Bream Bay's southern tip. Favorable offshore winds blow from the SW, and it handles some south wind well. Near Mangawhai, known for catching more swell and boasting a top-notch skate-park. For protection against NW winds, head north.

CamJam

Northland Surf