The Surf Window

Cowaramup Bay

Western Australia, Australia

Point breakIntermediate

South of Gracetown in the heart of the Margaret River surf region, Cowaramup Bay (Cow Bombie) is famous for a deep-water slab that only breaks on the biggest Southern Ocean swells, a big-wave location that tests the best in Australian surfing.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size3m+ at 16–22s

Wind

NE

Light to E under 12 knots

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

Jun–Aug for biggest Southern Ocean swells

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Reef break (big wave slab)

Bottom

Rock

Shape

Massive left-hander, extremely hollow

Length

50–100m (at enormous size)

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Expert big-wave surfers only
  • •Why: This is a big-wave venue, it only works at dangerous size

Hazards

  • •Extremely powerful waves, hold-downs are severe
  • •Deep-water entry but very shallow slab on the reef
  • •Jet ski support essential for tow-in sessions

Local Tips

  • •Cow Bombie is not a playful wave, it's a serious big-wave venue
  • •The bay is named for the blowhole-like explosion of water when large sets hit
  • •Margaret River's wine region around Cowaramup town is world-class, console yourself there on small days

Location

Map showing the location of Cowaramup Bay in Western Australia, Australia

-33.8557, 114.9679