Struisbaai Back Reef is a surf spot located in Garden Route and Southern Cape, South Africa. The spot sits near the harbor in Struisbaai and is recognized for its coral reef and sand bottom. The surf spot provides both left and right waves. The waves here are hollow, fast, and can get powerful, especially when the conditions line up. The best time to surf is during low and medium tides, with a falling tide often working well. The length of the ride is usually less than 50 meters. Access to the spot involves either a paddle of more than 20 minutes from the harbor or using a boat. From the harbor, you can check the surf conditions and see if the spot is working. The area is generally empty, so you might find yourself surfing alone, but always respect the locals and follow surf etiquette, especially if the spot gets crowded. Hazards at Struisbaai Back Reef include strong rip currents, undertow, sharp rocks, and the presence of sharks, so it’s important to stay alert and be cautious. Boats may also be present in the area, so keep an eye out. The spot is considered a regional classic and is best suited for intermediate surfers. Not many people surf here, but those who do often look for the big open barrels that can form when the swell is right. Before heading out, check your skills to make sure the spot and conditions fit your surfing level. For the latest surf forecast, report, map, and webcam updates, check reliable sources before planning your session. Nearby surf spots include Struisbaai Harbour Wedge, Struisbaai Reef, Meisho Maru, Suiderstrand, and Jessies Bay. Always be aware of the risks and surf safe. Check out the good surf at Struisbaai Back Reef in the next 7 days, the webcams, the full forecast report, or see the spot on the surf map.
Best tide at Struisbaai Back Reef
Low, Medium (best tide movement: Falling tide)
Check the full tide tableTides have a significant impact on wave quality at certain surf spots like Struisbaai Back Reef, 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 Struisbaai Back Reef. 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