Map
Buffels Bay
Today's Surf Conditions at Buffels Bay
Spot Conditions Map
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Today's Surf & Wind Forecast (Hourly)
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Spot Overview & Description
Buffalo Point is a steady, dependable right-hand point break that delivers consistent action for intermediate surfers, especially when a modest south swell rolls in. The wave peels off a rugged blend of boulders and sand, so watch your takeoff line—it’s got personality underfoot and rewards a clean drop. Ideal swell size hovers around 3 feet (0.9 meters), and you’ll find the magic happening with a moderate southeast swell paired with light northeast winds. Under those conditions, the wave offers a playful, workable face that holds its shape across low, mid, and high tides, making it a versatile choice for a session anytime. Beware of southwest swell and wind, though—that combo tends to chop things up and shorten the ride. While Buffalo Point won’t challenge the high-performance crowd, it’s a fun, low-hassle option for those looking to log some turns without dramatics. Keep an eye out for large fish cruising the lineup; the marine life here adds a wild touch to the experience. Grab your board and make the trip when you’re after a straightforward, reliable wave with a bit of local character.
Best Surf Season & Climatology
Best Surf Season (May - August)
Winter in the Southern Hemisphere brings Buffels Bay to life as the Southern Ocean roars to life. Powerful, long-period groundswells from the SW quadrant become the norm, with average heights consistently in the 2.6-2.8m range and periods averaging 12-12.4s – often delivering pumping, heavy waves in the 1.5-2.5m zone. The dominant high-pressure systems migrating north allow for frequent offshore winds from the NW-NNW quadrant, with ideal wind percentages peaking at 60% in June. This is the prime window for firing, glassy conditions at this SSE-facing beach.
Fair Surf Season (March - April & September - October)
The transitional months see a blend of swell regimes. Swell heights remain respectable (2.3-2.7m) with periods in the 11-12s range, offering fun, rippable waves. However, the wind patterns are less consistent: a mix of offshore NW flows and onshore E/ESE breezes means the ideal window shrinks to 28-42% of the time. When the wind lines up right, you’ll find clean, powerful surf, but you’ll need to pick your days carefully.
Low Surf Season (November - February)
Summer brings a lull in swell energy and a persistent struggle with wind. Average swell heights drop to 2.2-2.4m with periods around 11s – still rideable but often lacking the punch of winter. The real limiting factor is the onshore wind regime: strong E to ESE trades dominate, ruining surface conditions for most of the time. Ideal offshore wind drops to just 20-25% of the month. While occasional long-period SW swells sneak through, they are often chopped up by the wind. This is the least reliable time for quality surf at Buffels Bay.
Detailed Surf Information for Buffels Bay
Detailed Surf Forecast
Access our detailed 8-day swell and wind forecast charts for Buffels Bay with tidal graphs, period ranges, and daily forecast text summaries.
Swell & Wind Statistics
Explore historical swell consistency, wave heights, and offshore wind windows month-by-month, compiled from over 40 years of data.
Historical Surf Report
Browse the historical database archives to view past wave reports and understand spot climatology during specific years and months.
