Muriwai
Auckland, New Zealand
Beach breakIntermediate
A spectacular, wild black-sand beach on Auckland's northwest coast, Muriwai has powerful beach break waves alongside a dramatic gannet colony nesting on the clifftops above.
Typical Conditions
The Surf Window
Swell Window
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size4-8ft
Wind
NW
Offshore
Tide
Any
LowMidHigh
Season
March–September
JFMAMJJASOND
The Wave
Type
Both
Bottom
Sand
Shape
Consistent, powerful beach break peaks, raw west coast exposure
Length
30–80m
Skill Level
- •Who it's for: Intermediate
- •Why: Strong beach break with rips and shifting sandbars, ocean experience is needed to surf here safely.
Hazards
- •Strong rip currents (always check the flags and rip positions before paddling out)
- •Powerful shore pound on bigger swells
- •Remote sections of the beach have no lifeguard coverage
Local Tips
- •The gannet colony at the southern end of the beach is a New Zealand natural treasure, check it out after your surf.
- •The beach stretches for many kilometres; the best sandbars are often a 10–15 minute walk from the car park.
Location
-36.8247, 174.4339