The Surf Window

Wilkes Passage

Mamanuca Islands, Fiji

Reef breakAdvanced

A lesser-known but high-quality right-hand reef break in the Mamanuca Islands, Wilkes Passage rewards those willing to venture beyond the famous breaks with powerful, uncrowded walls.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalSSW (195°)
WindowSSE–WSW (150°–240°)
Size4-8ft

Wind

SE

trade winds

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

April–October

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Right

Bottom

Coral reef

Shape

Open, walling rights with occasional hollow sections, powerful but less intense than Cloudbreak

Length

80–200m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Advanced
  • •Why: Real reef wave with power and consequence, advanced surfing experience on coral reef required.

Hazards

  • •Shallow reef sections on takeoff
  • •Remote access, boat trip from resort
  • •Limited crowd means limited help in an emergency

Local Tips

  • •Wilkes is a quality alternative when Cloudbreak and Restaurants are maxed or overcrowded.
  • •The deeper channel makes for an easier paddle-out than the main Namotu breaks.

Location

Map showing the location of Wilkes Passage in Mamanuca Islands, Fiji

-17.8167, 177.1667