Whangamata Bar
Whangamata Bar is well regarded as one of the best waves in New Zealand. When the bar is on it creates a awesome, long left hander, starting with a steep drop in, a long barrel section, then the wave just seems to keep on going with a nice wall to smash. The bar is best on the lower tide. Use the channel to help paddle out. Whangamata also has a good beach break with several peaks down the beach suitable for all levels of surfer. Whangamata can get very crowded especially in the holiday season, so watch out for swimmers, know the rules and respect the locals.
Optimal Swell Direction:
NE
Optimal Wind Direction:
SW
Tide:
Low
Wave Type:
Left point
Beach break
Wave Size Min:
1.0ft
Wave Size Max:
8.0ft
Wave Shape:
Fast
Powerful
Hollow
Barrels
Long
Beach Type:
Sand
Skill Level:
Intermediate
Danger:
River mouths often have rips and currents, so be aware. Watch out for swimmers.
Directions
Whangamata is on the east side of the coromandel peninsula, on Highway 25. If coming from the north turn left off Highway 25 onto Harry Watt Drive, which leads onto Hetherington Road, then go straight at the round about on Hunt Street down to the beach. If coming from the South turn right off Highway 25 onto Port Road, then near the end of the road any of the side roads to the right from Hunt Street north will get down to the beach. There is a Surf Lifesaving Club located on Lowe Street, By Williamson Park.
Nearest Town:
Whangamata
Nearest City:
Thames
Travel Time from City:
30mins
Road in:
Seal
Walk in:
No
Parking at beach:
Yes
Facilities:
Toilets
Shower
