Snapper Rocks located on “The Goldie”, marks the start of one of the most famous waves in the World, it’s a world-class point break breaking over-sand. Offering up heavy sections that can break for up to 100 meters, it’s generally a barreling wave where tubes cutties and lip bashing are the go. Snapper has been given a little hand by mankind when the sand pumping from the Tweed river started providing ruler edge banks all the way through Rainbow Bay and down through Greenmount to Kirra.
The wave starts from behind the rock where only the bravest take-off in search of thick-lipped cylindrical stand-up barrels. Nearly missing the backwash if you successfully navigate your way through the barrel you need to dodge the impending crowd who are keen to snag anything that comes through the lineup, from here you’re well and truly surfing the superbank and swell quality and bank shape determine how far your ride will last along with your skill level. Beware of the thick cround and drop ins. This is one of the busiest surf spots on the planet. You’ll be rubbing your shoulders with some of the best in the world along with a hungry, talented pack of locals. The paddle out is as entertaining as it gets!
What are the best surf conditions for Snapper Rocks?
Gets good between waist-high to triple overhead. We recommend riding your standard shortboard here. Snapper Rocks on The Gold Coast is best suited to intermediate to advanced surfers. The surf here is pretty consistent (6/10) and can get insanely crowded (10/10). The best winds for Snapper Rocks are Southwest. The best swell direction is from the East, Northeast, South and Southeast.
We recommend wearing boardshorts or a bikini, plus a wetsuit top in strong winds, in summer with the warmest water temperature a warm 27 degrees in February. In winter we recommend wearing boardshorts or a bikini, plus a wetsuit top or spring suit in strong winds with temps being a pleasant 22 degrees! See the temperature chart below for more data on this.
