The Surf Window

Varela

Cacheu, Guinea Bissau

Beach breakBeginner

A stunning, unspoiled beach on Guinea-Bissau's northern coast near the Senegal border, Varela has gentle Atlantic waves in one of West Africa's least-visited and most pristine coastal environments.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

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

Wind

N

Offshore

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

July–September

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Both

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Gentle, slow-rolling beach break

Length

40–80m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Beginner
  • •Why: The wave is gentle, the water is warm, and the beach is virtually empty

Hazards

  • •Remote location, nearest hospital is in Ziguinchor, Senegal
  • •No surf infrastructure whatsoever
  • •Tidal currents near the river mouths

Local Tips

  • •Accessible from Cap Skirring by boat or via a rough track through the Casamance forest
  • •The village has simple guesthouses, bring cash and supplies

Location

Map showing the location of Varela in Cacheu, Guinea Bissau

12.3500, -16.5667