How to Read a Surf Forecast Like a Pro
Swell height, period, direction, wind and tide: what every number on a surf forecast means, how they work together, and how to read our 0 to 6 ratings so you paddle out at the right time.
Guides & stories
Surf articles
Local Jeffreys Bay knowledge, practical surf guides, gear advice and stories from South Africa's surf community — written for anyone who plans their week around the swell.
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South Africa's Surfing Legends: The Surfers Who Put SA on the Map
From Shaun Tomson's 1977 world title to Bianca Buitendag's Olympic silver: the South African surfing legends whose talent and grit put this country on the world surfing map.
Surfboard Volume Explained: How to Choose the Right Board
Litres explained without the jargon: how surfboard volume works, how much you need for your weight and level, and how fitness, wave type and winter wetsuits change the numbers.
20 of the Best Surf Spots in the World (Bucket List)
Twenty of the best surf spots in the world, from J-Bay's long right to Pipeline, Teahupo'o and Chicama, with the season, the skill level and a live surf report for every wave.
The Complete Guide to Surfing Jeffreys Bay
Everything you need to surf Jeffreys Bay: the eight main breaks and who each one suits, the swell and wind that light up the point, when to come, and how to fit into the line-up.
South Africa's Best Surf Spots: A Coast-to-Coast Guide
From the cold lefts of Elands Bay to warm-water peaks in Durban: a region-by-region guide to the best surf spots in South Africa, with seasons, wetsuits and live surf reports.
Learning to Surf: A Beginner's Guide to Your First 10 Sessions
A practical plan for your first 10 surfs: the right board and wetsuit, where to learn in South Africa, safety basics, pop-up drills and how to catch your first unbroken wave.
Shark Safety for Surfers in South Africa: Facts, Not Fear
Facts, not fear: how shark safety works on South African beaches, from the Shark Spotters flags and the KZN nets to the conditions that raise the risk and habits for every surf.
Supertubes Explained: How J-Bay's Legendary Right-Hander Works
A section-by-section look at Supertubes in Jeffreys Bay: where the wave starts, why it runs so fast, the swell and wind that make it perfect, and how to paddle out, pick a wave and make the line.
The J-Bay Open: A History of Surfing's Most Iconic Right-Hand Contest
From Shaun Tomson's win at the 1981 Beach Hotel Classic to Mick Fanning's shark encounter and the 2026 tour exit: the story of the J-Bay Open at Supertubes, year by year.
Rip Currents: How to Spot Them and Escape Safely
Rip currents are the hidden danger on almost every surf beach. Learn how to spot a rip from the sand, how to escape one calmly and what to do if someone else is caught.
Surf Etiquette: 10 Unwritten Rules of the Lineup
Priority, drop-ins, snaking, paddling out and respecting locals: the ten unwritten rules of surf etiquette, explained with everyday line-up situations from Muizenberg to J-Bay.
Wetsuit Thickness Guide: What to Wear in South African Water
From icy West Coast upwelling to warm Durban water: the wetsuit thickness you need for every South African surf region and season, plus seams, zips, booties and how to make a suit last.
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