Map
Tallows
Today's Surf Conditions at Tallows
Spot Conditions Map
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Today's Surf & Wind Forecast (Hourly)
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Spot Overview & Description
Tucked away beneath the northern headland at Cosy Corner, Tallows is a steadfast performer that springs to life when NE winds howl, offering a sheltered haven of consistent, sand-bottom peaks. This beach break delivers a lively mix of power and playful sections, with both lefts and rights peeling across the sand—ideal for dialing in turns or hunting for a clean runner. However, its reliability draws a crowd, especially at the main northern peak, where local regulars and spillover from nearby spots converge. Expect a bustling lineup that can feel hectic, but for those willing to share the water, the rewards are a fun, year-round wave with versatile character. Prime conditions align with a southeast swell, handling heights from 1 to 6 feet (0.3 to 1.8 m) with ease, though it also cleans up nicely on south or northeast pulses. The magic happens under a northwest wind, which grooms the surface into clean, offering corners, while the spot works across all tides—low, mid, and high—making it a go-to for surfers of every stripe. Beginners find forgiving waves to build confidence, while more experienced riders can chase punchier sets when the swell pumps. Be mindful of the scene: surf schools often use Tallows as their classroom when other spots go flat, adding to the water count and occasionally creating a chaotic vibe. Additionally, the area has a noted reputation for marine life, so keep an eye on the water—shark sightings, though rare, are part of the local lore. Stay alert, embrace the energy, and Tallows remains a solid, sun-drenched session.
Best Surf Season & Climatology
Best Surf Season (May - August)
As the Southern Hemisphere winter takes hold, the Tasman Sea becomes a cauldron of powerful mid-latitude storms. The Roaring Forties shift north, driving consistent long-period swell from the E through SSE quadrant directly into Tallows' east-southeast facing beach. Average wave periods climb to 9.5-9.6s, with a solid 1.5-1.7m of average height. More importantly, the frequency of offshore winds from the W, WNW, and NW peaks between 22% and 26%, creating the cleanest, most groomed conditions of the year. This is the window for the best quality surf.
Fair Surf Season (April & September)
The transition months of April and September offer a mixed bag. April retains a healthy average swell of 1.7m with a 9.2s period, but the percentage of ideal offshore wind drops to 17%. September sees a similar pattern with 1.5m at 8.8s and 19% ideal wind. Swell directions become more variable, and while you can score excellent waves when a strong cut-off low aligns with a westerly wind, the consistency and quality are less reliable than the peak winter months.
Low Surf Season (October - March)
From spring through summer and into early autumn, Tallows struggles. The prevailing wind regime shifts to a dominant onshore flow from the E, ESE, and SE, with the percentage of ideal offshore wind plummeting to between 10% and 15%. Average swell periods drop to the 8.2-8.9s range, producing weaker, more wind-affected waves. While the occasional pulse of long-period energy from a distant tropical cyclone can produce a brief window of clean, rideable surf, the default pattern is small, choppy, and generally poor quality. This is the time to chase other coasts or wait for a synoptic miracle.
Detailed Surf Information for Tallows
Detailed Surf Forecast
Access our detailed 8-day swell and wind forecast charts for Tallows 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.
