The Surf Window

Dungeons

Western Cape, South Africa

Reef breakExpert

One of the world's great big-wave arenas, a fearsome left-hand reef break beneath the cliffs of Hout Bay, accessible only by boat and only rideable when massive NW swells arrive.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalSSW (210°)
WindowSSE–W (150°–270°)
Size4-8ft

Wind

W

Offshore

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

April–September

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Left

Bottom

Deep-water reef

Shape

Enormous, thick walls, can barrel at extreme size

Length

200–400m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Elite big-wave specialists only
  • •Why: Enormous hold-downs, frigid water, remote access by boat, and great whites make this one of the world's most dangerous big-wave venues.

Hazards

  • •White sharks, Hout Bay is prime great white territory
  • •Extreme wave size, hold-downs of 30+ seconds
  • •Cold water (12–14°C), full winter suit essential
  • •Boat-only access, no paddle-out from shore

Local Tips

  • •The Red Bull Big Wave Africa event was held here for years, watching from Hout Bay harbour on a big day is spectacular.
  • •Even at size, the Cape Doctor SE wind can make conditions treacherous, a narrow weather window is required.

Location

Map showing the location of Dungeons in Western Cape, South Africa

-34.0442, 18.3119