Cloud 9
Siargao, Philippines
Reef breakAdvanced
Siargao Island's crown jewel and one of the most perfectly-shaped reef breaks in Asia, Cloud 9 is a hollow right-hand reef break that delivers thick, barrelling tubes in the warm tropical waters of the Philippines, hosting the annual Siargao Cup.
Typical Conditions
The Surf Window
Swell Window
OptimalE (90°)
WindowNNE–SSE (30°–150°)
Size4-8ft
Wind
W
Offshore
Tide
Mid to high
LowMidHigh
Season
September–February
JFMAMJJASOND
The Wave
Type
Right
Bottom
Shallow coral reef
Shape
Thick, square-lipped barrel, the wave ledges up abruptly and throws a powerful, hollow tube
Length
40–100m
Skill Level
- •Who it's for: Advanced
- •Why: The reef is very shallow (less than 1m at low tide), the barrel is fast and unforgiving, and the volume of surfers means priority awareness is critical.
Hazards
- •Very shallow coral reef, reef rash is extremely common
- •Crowded lineup, the contest draws large crowds year-round
- •Typhoon swells can cause sudden size increases
- •The boardwalk and watching area above the wave creates a spectator atmosphere that adds pressure
Local Tips
- •The wooden boardwalk above Cloud 9 gives an extraordinary view of the barrel, watch a full session before paddling out.
- •Mid to high tide softens the reef entry and makes the barrel slightly more forgiving.
Location
9.8661, 126.0869