Technical details of Supertubes spot

Spot functioning

The spot works with SW swell that creates perfect waves on the reef. Kiting is possible with SE wind but ONLY when surfers are not in the water. In practice, best kiting conditions (strong SE) coincide with degraded surf conditions, creating opportunity windows. Mid-high to high tide for the best waves. Reef spot — DO NOT ride without thorough knowledge of the reef.

On the water

Waves of 1.5-3 metres on the reef, reaching 4 metres during large swells. Rocky reef bottom — very dangerous. Powerful tubing waves. Strong currents along the reef. Water temperature between 18-22°C. 3/2 wetsuit in summer, 4/3 in winter. Helmet recommended.

Required level

Expert

Spot opening date

Open all year round

Parking

Dedicated parking at Supertubes, well signposted from the J-Bay coastal road. Free parking. Direct view of the break from the parking. Limited facilities on site. Shops and restaurants in J-Bay minutes away.

Hazards

EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SPOT. Shallow rocky reef — risk of serious injury. Powerful tubing waves. Sharks — J-Bay is known for great whites (incident during 2015 WSL event). Major conflicts possible with surfers if local rules are not respected. Strong currents. Reserved for experts with confirmed kite wave riding experience on reef. DO NOT ride without knowing the spot.

Wind specificities

Southeast wind blows side-onshore. For surfing, SE is considered onshore and degrades the waves. Best surf conditions are with offshore (NW) wind. For kite wave riding, SE works but makes waves less clean. Typical strength of 15-25 knots in summer. Wind can be strong with significant gusts.

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