The Surf Window

Erakor

Shefa, Vanuatu

Reef breakIntermediate

Near Vanuatu's capital Port Vila, Erakor Lagoon's outer reef breaks offer surprisingly powerful waves just minutes from restaurants and resorts, the easiest introduction to Vanuatu surfing.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–S 1.5–2.5m at 12–16s

Wind

NE

Light to N under 15 knots

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

May–Sep southern winter

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Reef break

Bottom

Coral reef

Shape

Lefts peeling along the reef edge

Length

80–150m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate to advanced
  • •Why: Coral reef and powerful swells demand solid surfing ability

Hazards

  • •Sharp coral, reef booties essential
  • •Sea snakes common in the lagoon
  • •Boat traffic from resort water taxis

Local Tips

  • •Hire a local guide to navigate the reef channels safely
  • •The lagoon itself is beautiful for stand-up paddleboarding in flat spells
  • •Resorts in Port Vila can arrange boat access to the outer reef

Location

Map showing the location of Erakor in Shefa, Vanuatu

-17.7744, 168.3161