The West Coast of the South Island offers rugged, powerful surf spots in a dramatic natural setting. From Karamea to Haast, surfers can find consistent waves along this exposed coastline. The region's remote nature and raw conditions attract adventurous surfers, while some spots offer more manageable waves. The area is known for its reliable surf and uncrowded breaks.

Beach and river outlet available. The sands shift often, typically favoring smaller, smooth swells. East winds bring the best offshore conditions. Look for Little Wanganui along the shoreline, offering an appealing left-hand bar break.

Karamea

Westport boasts a variety of decent surfing spots, primarily beach breaks, with a consistent swell presence. Many of the coastal areas north of Cape Foulwind are oriented NNW, offering protection from SW and S winds. Be on the lookout for unique river surfing opportunities during significant NW swells, and venture north or south for enhanced swell conditions. The town also features an excellent skatepark.

Westport

Fox River lies at a midpoint bar break between Greymouth and Westport. It predominantly offers a left-hand wave, though this can change with the shingle movement. Optimal conditions occur with offshore winds from the E to SE.

Fox River

Tauranga Bay features a left-hand wave at the beach's southern tip and classic West Coast surf along its stretch. Winds blowing offshore come from the East, though it tolerates breezes from much of the Eastern quarter. The town boasts a quality skatepark.

Tauranga Bay

Ideal for beach breaks, and offers left-hand point break under the right conditions. Punakaiki boasts multiple beach break spots, favoring offshore winds from the ESE. Heading south towards Greymouth or north to Charleston, you'll find numerous left-hand configurations.

Punakaiki

Outstanding surf spots in Greymouth include Blaketown and Cobden, known for their intense, wedgy peaks near the breakwater. These spots typically excel during higher tides and are known for catching ample swell. East winds bring offshore conditions. Additionally, when the swell is significant, right-hand options are available inside the river.

Blaketown - Cobden

Pebbled shore break with sporadic river mouth waves. This river mouth often varies, yet sometimes offers decent surf. To the south, there are river mouth and point spots that are almost never ridden. Southeast winds bring offshore conditions.

Ōkārito

Protected coastal inlet and estuary entrance. The beach's sandy composition changes, yet choices persist. Prevailing winds blow from the SSE. To the south, numerous secluded spots can be found.

Bruce Bay

Shoreline and estuary spots available. The sandbanks fluctuate but often offer quality. Favorable winds blow from the southeast. To the south, you'll find several secluded choices. Keep an eye out for Luc Bruh.

Haast

Protected estuary entrance. The shoreline changes but forms well. Southerly winds blow offshore. To the south, there are several secluded spots available.

Jackson Bay

Secluded and open cove in Fiordland, featuring multiple reef and point breaks with challenging access. Prevailing offshore winds blow from the ENE.

CamJam

West Coast Surf