The Surf Window

Roatan West End

Bay Islands, Honduras

Reef breakIntermediate

The Caribbean reef break at Roatan's West End village breaks over a coral shelf on occasional north swells, more famous for being one of the world's top dive destinations, but the surf here is a genuine surprise when conditions align.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)

Wind

S

Offshore

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

November–February

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Right (primary)

Bottom

Reef (coral)

Shape

Peeling right wall, gentle and long on moderate swells

Length

60–120m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate
  • •Why: The reef is coral and can be shallow, requires controlled surfing and booties

Hazards

  • •Coral reef, booties essential, no diving into the water
  • •Boat traffic from the dive operators
  • •Very occasional swell, check forecasts carefully before planning

Local Tips

  • •Roatan is one of the world's cheapest PADI dive certification destinations, combine surf with dive
  • •West End village has excellent Caribbean food and the most laid-back atmosphere in Honduras

Location

Map showing the location of Roatan West End in Bay Islands, Honduras

16.3013, -86.5881