The Surf Window

Bull Bay

Saint Andrew, Jamaica

Beach breakIntermediate

Just east of Kingston, Bull Bay is Jamaica's home of surfing, a working-class community that has produced the island's best surfers and hosted generations of salt-air stoke on a scrappy but spirited beach break.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalE (90°)
WindowNNE–SSE (30°–150°)
Size–E 1–2m at 10–12s

Wind

SW

Light under 15 knots

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

Nov–Mar

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand and rock

Shape

Multiple peaks, mostly rights

Length

40–80m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: All levels
  • •Why: Forgiving peaks great for learning, plus bigger sets challenge experienced surfers

Hazards

  • •Urban beach with occasional debris in the water
  • •Rocky sections at low tide
  • •Crowded on weekends

Local Tips

  • •This is the heartbeat of Jamaican surf culture, locals are passionate and welcoming
  • •Billy's Surf Club is the community hub here, stop in
  • •The reggae soundtrack from shoreside speakers makes every session feel perfect

Location

Map showing the location of Bull Bay in Saint Andrew, Jamaica

17.9413, -76.6878