The Surf Window

Tiree The Maze

Argyll and Bute, Scotland

Beach breakAdvanced

On the remote Hebridean island of Tiree off Scotland's west coast, The Maze is a world-class left-hand reef break that reels across an exposed Atlantic reef, one of Britain's most celebrated and rarely-ridden surf destinations.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalN (0°)
WindowNNW–ENE (330°–60°)
Size–NW 1.5–3m at 14–18s

Wind

SE

Light to E under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Oct–Apr

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Reef break

Bottom

Rock reef

Shape

Long left-hander, fast and walling with hollow sections

Length

150–300m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Advanced to expert surfers
  • •Why: Remote, powerful reef break in cold conditions, not for the inexperienced

Hazards

  • •Very cold water, 8–12°C requires 5/4mm hooded wetsuit
  • •Remote island, ferry-dependent access
  • •Rocks throughout the reef

Local Tips

  • •Tiree is reached by CalMac ferry from Oban (3.5 hours) or a small plane from Glasgow
  • •The island is flat and windswept, bring warm clothes and accept the Highland weather
  • •Tiree Wave Classic windsurf contest held here annually, the wind is extraordinary

Location

Map showing the location of Tiree The Maze in Argyll and Bute, Scotland

56.5067, -6.9528