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The best left hander in the world?
If you’re a surfer looking for the ultimate barrel ride, look no further than Skeleton Bay in Namibia. This legendary surf spot is known for its mile-long, barreling waves that provide epic rides for skilled surfers. In fact, many consider Skeleton Bay to be one of the best left-hand breaks in the world. Just check out this video of Koa Smith scoring eight barrels on a mile-long wave – it’ll give you an idea of what’s in store at Skeleton Bay.
Skeleton Bay Surf Conditions
The wave at Skeleton Bay is a true marvel of the surfing world. With the potential for mile-long rides of the barreling kind, it’s the type of wave that surfers dream about. The ride is fast and powerful, and can last for several minutes, making it a true test of a surfer’s endurance and skill. The wave is best surfed at low tide, when it’s at its longest and fastest, providing surfers with the opportunity to ride it for as long as possible. The best time to visit Skeleton Bay for surfing is during the winter months, when the wave is at its biggest and most consistent, providing the perfect conditions for an epic ride. If you’re a skilled surfer looking for a challenging and rewarding wave to ride, Skeleton Bay is definitely worth a visit.
View the surf report and forecast here
Where is Skeleton Bay?
Skeleton Bay is located on the remote Skeleton Coast in Namibia, on the west coast of Africa. The area is known for its desolate beauty, with miles of sandy beaches and rugged cliffs. It’s also home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and whales.
Safety & Good to Know
As with any surfing destination, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions when surfing Skeleton Bay. The wave is fast and powerful, and can be dangerous for inexperienced or unprepared surfers. It’s always a good idea to hire a local guide or surf instructor to help you navigate the wave and ensure your safety. It’s also important to bring all necessary safety equipment, such as a wetsuit, surf leash, and a personal flotation device. Additionally, it’s a good idea to be aware of the local marine life, as Skeleton Bay is located in an area known for its shark populations. While the fast-moving waves at Skeleton Bay can make it difficult for sharks to approach surfers, it’s always a good idea to take necessary precautions, such as using a shark repellent or surfing in a group. By following these safety guidelines, you can ensure that your surfing experience at Skeleton Bay is both enjoyable and safe.
Is it Sharky?
Skeleton Bay is located in an area known for its shark populations. However, the waves at Skeleton Bay are fast-moving and powerful, which can make it difficult for sharks to approach surfers. That being said, it’s always a good idea to take necessary precautions when surfing in any location, such as using a shark repellent or surfing in a group.
How to Get to Skeleton Bay
To get to Skeleton Bay, you’ll need to travel to the town of Luderitz in Namibia. From Luderitz, it’s a short drive north along the coast to reach the bay. The wave at Skeleton Bay is best accessed by boat, as it’s located a short distance offshore. Many surfers choose to hire a local boat operator to take them to the wave, as the conditions can be treacherous and it’s important to have an experienced guide.
It’s also important to note that driving a 4×4 vehicle on the beach is not allowed in Namibia, so you’ll need to find another way to get to the wave.
2008: The Year of the Discovery
2008, when a video of Corey Lopez surfing the wave went viral, putting Skeleton Bay on the map as a must-visit surf spot. Since then, the wave has drawn surfers from all over the world, who come to experience the thrill of riding its long, barreling waves.
However, the future of Skeleton Bay as a surf spot is uncertain. Some reports suggest that shifting sands may change the shape of the wave, causing it to lose its barrel-forming properties. While it’s impossible to know for sure what the future holds for Skeleton Bay, for now it remains a premier destination for surfers in the know seeking the ultimate barrel ride.
Skeleton Bay | Wave Facts
Wave type: Left-hand point break
Wave size: Can reach up to 8 feet (2.4 meters)
Wave shape: Long, barreling
Best tide: Low tide
Best time to visit: Winter months (May to September)
Ability level: Expert
So, if you’re a skilled surfer looking for a one of the most challenging and rewarding waves to ride, consider a trip to Skeleton Bay in Namibia. Just be sure to respect the power of the wave and take all necessary safety precautions, if you make it there you’ll be one of the lucky ones!
How to organise a trip here: http://surfguidenamibia.com/
