Goukamma Rivermouth is a surf spot located in Garden Route and Southern Cape, South Africa, about 20 km south of Knysna at the mouth of the Goukamma River. The spot sits within the Goukamma Nature Reserve, an area known for its coastal forests and marine protected zone. The surf break is an exposed river mouth with a sandy bottom, and the river water often has a deep red color from the minerals in the surrounding forests and mountains. The surf here is very consistent, with the best conditions usually found during light northerly winds, which help keep the waves clean. The ideal swell direction is from the south. The spot provides both left and right waves. Surfing is possible at low and medium tides, and the wave length is generally less than 50 meters. The area is known for strong rip currents and undertow, so always be cautious in the water. Shark sightings have been reported, so stay alert and check local surf reports and forecasts before heading out. The spot is usually empty, but when it gets crowded, respect the locals and follow surf etiquette. There are several other surf spots nearby, including Buffalo Bay Wildside, Buffalo Bay Beach, Buffalo Bay Murphys, Buffalo Bay Point, and Brenton. The scenery around the spot is natural and unspoiled, with the river meeting the sea and the reserve providing a unique backdrop. The spot is suitable for all levels, but always check your skills before paddling out, be sure that the spot and conditions fit your surfing level. For more details, check the latest surf forecast, report, map, or webcam for up-to-date information on conditions. Always respect the environment and the rules of the reserve when visiting. Check out the good surf at Goukamma Rivermouth in the next 7 days, the webcams, the full forecast report, or see the spot on the surf map.
Tides have a significant impact on wave quality at certain surf spots like Goukamma Rivermouth, causing conditions to vary throughout the tidal cycle. As the tide moves between high and low, the water depth over the seabed changes, affecting how the waves break. At these spots, high tide usually produce softer, slower waves, while low tide can generate faster, steeper waves. Some spots have specific tide stages when they work best, offering optimal conditions only at certain times of the day.
Near spots
There are 33 surf spots within a range of 100 km from Goukamma Rivermouth. Use this section to find alternative spots that may be less crowded, better suited for your surfing skills, or offer a better forecast report for the next 7 days. Each spot includes detailed surf reports, forecast updates, and webcam views to help you plan. Whether you're seeking less crowded alternatives or simply exploring a region, the list of nearby surf spots is an essential tool.
See all 33 surf spots