The Surf Window

Long Bay Jamaica

Portland, Jamaica

Beach breakIntermediate

On Jamaica's sleepy northeastern tip near Port Antonio, Long Bay stretches for kilometers of undeveloped Atlantic coastline with consistent trade wind swells and not another soul in sight.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalE (90°)
WindowNNE–SSE (30°–150°)
Size–N 1–2.5m at 10–14s

Wind

SW

Light to S under 15 knots

Tide

Any tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Nov–Apr for northeast swells

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Coarse sand

Shape

Long beach with multiple peaks, lefts dominate

Length

50–100m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate surfers
  • •Why: Exposed beach catches direct swell but waves are generally clean and manageable

Hazards

  • •Strong longshore current
  • •Isolated, no facilities for several kilometers
  • •Jellyfish during some seasons

Local Tips

  • •Camping is possible behind the dunes for a true surf safari experience
  • •The bay is a nesting beach for sea turtles, respect any marked areas
  • •Bring all supplies from Port Antonio before heading out

Location

Map showing the location of Long Bay Jamaica in Portland, Jamaica

18.2167, -76.3833