The Surf Window

The Box

Western Australia, Australia

Reef breakExpert

Margaret River's most feared wave, a thick, heaving left-hand slab that detonates over a near-dry limestone reef in an explosion of water that defines consequence surfing in Australia.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size4-8ft

Wind

E

Offshore

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

March–September

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Left

Bottom

Extremely shallow limestone reef

Shape

Thick, pitching slab, violent and hollow

Length

50–100m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Expert
  • •Why: The reef can be touched on the take-off, the lip is enormous, and the consequences of a wipeout are extreme.

Hazards

  • •Near-dry limestone reef
  • •Violent wipeouts, head and back injuries are documented
  • •Shark activity in the region
  • •Remote, long drive on unsealed road to access

Local Tips

  • •Watch from the rocks above the wave before entering, understanding the surge and current is essential.
  • •A big-wave board (7'0"+) is appropriate; this is not a standard shortboard wave.

Location

Map showing the location of The Box in Western Australia, Australia

-33.9600, 114.9950