I spent a month in Japan and managed to get some good (not amazing) waves. I could have easily been skunked if it wasn’t for a few good local contacts and the flexibility to chase down swells.
Here’s what I wish I had known before I went and my quick advice on how to make the most of your surf trip to Japan:
Tip 1: Embrace Mobility
Like many places, in Japan there may be bad conditions in one stretch of coast and great conditions an hour’s drive (or even less) away. If you’re limited to the area you’re staying, you’ll need the waves to come to you. But with a car, you can go to the waves.
Swell Dynamics: Short-period wind swells, especially prevalent outside of typhoon season, can appear and disappear quickly.
Forecast Focus: Develop a keen understanding of swell forecasting, particularly for wind swells.
Strategic Positioning: Be prepared to relocate to areas where the swell’s energy will focus.
Transportation: A car is essential for efficient exploration and surf checks along the coast.
Tip 2: Tap into Local Knowledge
If you have a good local guide, you don’t need anything else. There’s a case to be made to just focus all your efforts on making connections and getting local tips. The challenge here is that you can’t guarantee you’ll meet someone nice who wants to share surf knowledge with you. But even if you can get a few tips, that could be enough to significantly improve your trip.
Invaluable Insights: Connecting with experienced local surfers can significantly enhance your trip.
Community Connections: Consider staying at surf hostels or guesthouses to meet fellow surfers and gather information.
Surf Guides: While not always readily available, local surf guides can provide invaluable expertise.
Online Resources: Utilize Google Maps and local surf forecasting tools, even if they require translation.
Tip 3: Improve Your Forecasting
You may not know the terrain, but you should be able to line up most other factors: swell, tide, and wind. The better you can forecast, the more higher your chances to score.
Utilize Technology:
Surf Cameras: Explore surf camera apps or websites to minimize driving time and identify promising spots.
Local Surf Apps: Even with a language barrier, Japanese surf apps can offer valuable clues (use translation tools if needed).
Adapt to Wind Conditions:
Variable Winds: Unlike regions with predictable wind patterns, Japan’s wind conditions can vary significantly.
Flexibility: Be prepared for anything from glassy all-day sessions to offshore mornings and sideshore afternoons.
Early Starts: While not always mandatory, starting early can allow for multiple surf checks and maximize your chances of finding good waves.
Tip 4: Manage Expectations
Proactively lowering my surf expectations might be the most helpful skill I’ve learned as a surfer, but it’s harder than it sounds. This can be a challenge due to The Perfect Wave Fallacy – how our perception of a wave is shaped when we’re only exposed to footage and pictures of the best days. So, keep in mind:
Swell Windows: Short swell windows can make scoring epic waves challenging, especially on shorter trips.
Embrace the Journey: Focus on enjoying Japan’s rich culture, food, and overall experience.
Flexibility is Key: Be adaptable and ready to adjust your plans based on swell forecasts and local knowledge.
By prioritizing mobility, tapping into local knowledge, and maintaining a flexible mindset, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate Japan’s dynamic surf scene and create a memorable experience, regardless of the wave conditions you encounter.
Thinking about a winter surf trip to Japan? While fall boasts the most consistent waves, winter offers lower crowds and still the potential for fun waves if you know where to go. Here’s what you need to know:
Japan Surf Seasons Overview
Fall (August-November):
Considered the prime surf season.
Post-summer sandbar formation.
Potential for typhoon-generated long-period ground swells.
Cooler temperatures and offshore winds.
Decreased crowds after September 1st.
Winter (December-April):
Typhoon activity diminishes.
Cold fronts from Siberia bring variable conditions.
Primarily short-period wind swells.
Winter Surf Conditions
Expect to rely heavily on short-period wind swells, which can be less powerful and consistent than the ground swells generated by fall typhoons.
Regional Breakdown:
Sea of Japan (West Coast):
Cold Siberian air masses create localized wind storms.
Limited fetch results in predominantly short-period wind swells.
Swells can develop and fade quickly.
Generally weaker and less predictable waves.
East Coast:
Northeast (Tohoku Region):
Exposed to North Pacific storms, generating significant swells.
Relatively consistent wave activity.
Frequent northeast swells.
Harsh winters with cold water and air.
Less crowded surf.
Mix of wind and ground swells, with potential for powerful waves.
Southeast (Izu Peninsula, Shikoku):
More variable wave climate.
Influenced by North Pacific storms and localized weather.
Milder winter temperatures.
Fickle swell action, with periods of flat conditions.
No typhoon swells.
Some more sheltered areas with less swell.
Key Considerations for Winter Surfing
Gear: Pack appropriate cold-water gear, especially for the northeast region.
Flexibility: Be prepared for variable conditions and potential flat spells.
Swell Forecasting: Track weather patterns closely, as swells can change rapidly.
Regional Awareness: Choose your location based on your tolerance for cold and your preference for wave consistency.
Da Nang surfing in a nutshell: you can have the lineup to yourself, but there’s a good reason surfers aren’t flocking to central Vietnam. If you’re looking for a livable city that allows you to paddle out, it’s not a bad place.
Despite the long coastline, there aren’t many workable reefs or point breaks, particularly not any with easy access.
Forecasting – Knowing the Season and Conditions
Surfing in Vietnam is all about knowing when and where to look. The waves here are driven by short-period wind swell, and while there are good days, it’s not the kind of place where you score perfect, machine-like surf. If you come in with low expectations, are happy ‘just to get out’, and you can check the beach breaks regularly, you’ll have fun.
An average winter day in Da NangA clean winter day, on a small swell… sometimes a sand bank develops and small peaks can be found. Surf check on an average winter swell
How To Get The Most Out of Surfing In Da Nang
Like every other surf break, Da Nang does have its days. If you know how to forecast, what to look for, and how to get there you can get decent surf. But given a lack of quality data, clear info on surf spots, and lack of infrastructure these aspects can be a challenge.
I spent some time in Da Nang and figured out the basics. Here’s what I learned so you can get more from your trip.
Swell – The Important Factors
Vietnam’s central coast, including Da Nang, gets almost exclusively short-period wind swell. Any long-period swell that could hit this area is blocked by the Philippines to the east and by Hainan, China, and other land masses to the north. That leaves a relatively small window for swell to push through from the northeast or east. Because of this, it’s rare to see swell periods above 11 seconds. Most of the time, you’re looking at short-period waves—quick-moving, sometimes weak, but still rideable.
This wave height forecast is typical of a strong winter swell. Most swell reaching central Vietnam is generated by storms between the Philippines and Taiwan.
Wave size can get overhead, but because of the long, shallow sand bottom stretching far out to sea, the waves tend to be soft and crumbly.
Shallow waters off the coast of Vietnam make for lower wave energy reaching the shoreline.
Occasionally, when the period reaches 10 or 11 seconds, you might find some hollow sections, but they usually back off and reform rather than offering a long, barreling ride. Expect a lot of mushy peaks… which can still be fun with the right board but won’t offer you the same stokage you’ll find at world class breaks.
Winds – The Easiest Part of Forecasting in Da Nang
The wind in Da Nang is generally light and variable. Mornings are usually the cleanest, with light offshore or glassy conditions. By mid-morning to early afternoon, a sideshore or light onshore breeze can develop. It’s not uncommon for the wind to die for an hour in the middle of the day, then pick up again. Strong offshore winds are rare because the land temperature doesn’t drop enough to create that thermal effect. Some evenings glass off, but it’s unpredictable. Checking the wind forecast helps, but I’ve found most apps tend to overestimate wind strength.
Tides – Also Not A Big Factor
Tide swings are small, so they don’t play a huge role in surf quality. Certain sandbars might work better at a specific tide, but for the most part, if there’s swell, there are waves to ride.
You don’t need to closely monitor the tide here. Your best bet is the check regularly.
Forecasting Tools
Most of the usual surf apps do a decent job of tracking swell direction and size, but the wind forecast tends to be hit or miss. Since conditions change quickly—sometimes hour to hour—the best strategy is to check often. There aren’t many cams or detailed surf reports due to low demand, so local knowledge and keeping an eye on the conditions in real time will serve you best.
Board – Bringing Your Own or Buying One
Picking the right board for Da Nang’s waves does make a significant difference so it’s worth considering. The surf here is soft, often mushy, and the takeoffs can be tricky—waves roll for a while, then suddenly break before backing off again. Having the right amount of foam and flotation helps you get into waves early, maintain speed through weak sections, and still handle the occasional punch of a rogue peak.
Best Board for Da Nang’s Waves
If you’re coming to surf here, go bigger than your usual board. A mid-length is a great choice—it gives you enough paddle power to get into waves early while still being maneuverable. A fish also works well, offering speed and some playfulness when the sections break down.
A high-performance shortboard isn’t ideal unless you’re planning to sit inside waiting for the occasional fast-breaking section. The waves don’t have enough punch or structure for vertical surfing, barrels, or airs. You’ll have more fun on something with extra volume—think funboard, groveler, or even a longboard for smaller days.
One key factor: duck diving. If you plan to surf when it’s bigger (which happens about 30% of the time in peak season), you’ll want a board that you can still get under the waves with. The short-period swell here means waves break close together, with little time between sets. Turtle rolling a big board in these conditions is rough. The best bet is to ride as much volume as you can while still being able to duck dive.
Bringing Your Own Board
If you’re serious about surfing, bring your own board. The selection here is limited, and prices are high. When bringing your own board, prepare yourself for unreasonable airline fees—most Southeast Asian airlines have strict length limits and charge extra per leg of your flight. Some also count full dimensions (length + width + height), so check ahead of time. If you can stay within the limits, it’s worth bringing a board that fits the conditions here.
Once you’ve arrived, transporting a board around the city is easy enough. Taxi vans are readily available and can fit a board bag, so getting to your surf destination isn’t a problem. Once you’re settled, you’ll want your own motorbike setup (which we’ll cover in the next section).
Buying a Board in Vietnam
Buying a board here is expensive. The good ones are imported and come with a heavy price tag. There are a few local shapers experimenting with making boards in Da Nang, but the quality is hit or miss. Even those boards are pricey because all the materials are imported.
Renting a Board
If you’re only surfing a handful of times, renting is the easiest option. There are two main choices:
• Beach Rentals – Basic soft tops, mostly for beginners. Cheap, around $10/hour or $15 for two hours. Good for messing around on small days.
• Shop Rentals – Higher-quality boards, including shortboards and funboards. More expensive, but a better option if you want to surf properly.
If you’re planning to surf regularly, renting gets expensive fast. You’re better off bringing your own board and setting up your own transport.
Look for these rental areas on the beach, typically open from 9am to 4pm
Wetsuit – Buying Online or In-Store
Vietnam’s water temperatures are moderate year-round, so wetsuits aren’t a huge concern. Most of the time, you can get away with just boardshorts or a swimsuit. But depending on the season and your tolerance for cooler water, you might want something for a little extra warmth. For early morning sessions, or a surf in the rain, it’s nice to have something light.
When Do You Need a Wetsuit?
• Peak Surf Season (November – March): Water temps dip to the low-to-mid 20s°C (70–75°F). Some surfers wear a spring suit or a thin long-sleeve top for early mornings. If you surf a lot, you might feel the chill after long sessions, especially if the wind picks up.
• Warmer Months (April – October): The ocean sits around 26–30°C (78–86°F)—boardshorts and rashguards are all you need. Note that chances of swell during this period are very low.
If you’re used to tropical waters, a 1mm–2mm long-sleeve top can help keep you comfortable when the water cools down a bit in winter. Otherwise you’ll be fine.
Buying a Wetsuit in Vietnam
Your best bet is to bring one with you. Wetsuits aren’t in high demand here, so the selection is limited and expensive. Sizing for westerners is also a challenge. There are a few surf shops in Da Nang, but selection is limited and prices are high.
If you get to Da Nang and realize you’d be more comfortable with a wetsuit, ordering online is an option and the risk is relatively low. I bought a springsuit online for about $45 including delivery. It doesn’t quite fit right and the quality is low… but it’s good enough for the occasional morning / rainy session where I need it.
Other Gear to Consider
Rashguards – Useful for sun protection. The sun can be intense, especially during midday.
Booties – Not necessary. No reefs, no sea urchins, just sand.
Leash / Fins / Wax – Backups are helpful since these are harder to find / more expensive here.
Motorbike Setup
The best way to get to the surf in Da Nang is either by walking (if you’re staying close enough to the beach) or, more ideally, by having your own motorbike with surf racks. The ability to move up and down the coast gives you more options, especially if the sandbars shift or the conditions change.
Renting vs. Buying a Motorbike
You can buy a motorbike in Vietnam, but there are legal hurdles. If you’re staying longterm, you’ll need a valid international driving permit (IDP) or a translated and converted license. Vietnam does offer the option to exchange a valid motorbike license from your home country for a Vietnamese license. You can also apply for a license in Vietnam which requires passing the written (in Vietnamese) and driving test.
For most surfers, renting is the easiest option. A long-term rental runs about $50/month, which is reasonable. You’ll just need to add surfboard racks, and you’re good to go.
Adding Surf Racks
There are a couple of ways to get surf racks set up:
Buy Ready-Made Racks – The easiest option. The best place to get them is at the Japanese surf shop ‘Surf Shack’ in the main tourist area of My An. These racks are plug-and-play and fit most bikes. You might need a wrench to tighten everything, but once installed, they work well.
DIY Setup – If you want to save money or prefer a custom fit, you can build your own. Some locals do this by using metal or PVC tubing, attaching it to the bike with wire or brackets. A simple setup involves:
Fixing two tubes (one in front, one in the back) to hold rebar or metal piping.
Bending the rebar into shape to cradle the board.
Adding foam padding to protect the board.
Securing everything tightly with zip ties or bungee cords.
PVC-Only Option – You can even go full PVC, which works well for shortboards. It’s a bit flimsy for longer boards, but it’ll get you to the beach.
Pre Fab Bike Racks
DIY Bike Racks
Road Conditions & Parking
Da Nang is relatively easy to navigate by bike, and you’ll see plenty of surfers riding through town with boards strapped to their motorbikes. It’s common for guys to pull right up onto the sidewalk to check the surf.
Parking – With a bike, you can park on the sidewalk or along the street for free. Cars need designated parking areas, which cost a small fee and can be inconvenient if you want to be right by the surf.
Other Transport Options
If you don’t want to ride a motorbike:
Bicycle – A good alternative if you’re close to the beach. You can buy a basic bike at local shops and even DIY a surf rack.
Car Rental – Good for surf exploration beyond Da Nang, but not ideal for city surf missions. Parking is limited, and you’ll need an international license.
Other – Taxi is an option, but not a great idea if you’re wet and sandy. Public transportation is very limited. There is a bus system in the larger coastal cities and you can use it to the beach, but it’s less than ideal.
The Surf Community
Da Nang’s surf scene is small but growing. Over the last five years, the number of Vietnamese surfers has quadrupled. In 2020, you’d only see four or five local surfers out on a given day. Now, on decent swells, there are ten to twelve. It’s still mellow, and there’s plenty of beach to spread out.
Local Vietnamese Surfers
The surf culture here is still developing. As more Vietnamese get into surfing, access to boards and equipment is improving. Most local surfers are still learning, but there’s clear progression. You’ll see a handful of good local surfers out on better days.
On small, clean days, the water fills up with beginners on soft tops. They stick close to the rental areas, taking lessons, flailing, and generally getting in the way. If the working sandbar happens to be near them, expect some congestion. Otherwise, it’s easy enough to walk down the beach and find an empty peak.
There are designated swimming areas marked by buoys and ropes—best to stay out of these zones. Swimmers tend to fill these spots in the afternoon and evening, but in the morning, the surf is mostly clear.
Japanese Surfers
There’s a small crew of Japanese surfers who may be considered as the pioneers of surfing in Da Nang. The long-standing Surf Shack is owned and operated by a Japanese expat who arguably knows the surf here better than anyone else.
If you’re planning to spend a long time in Da Nang, it’s not a bad idea to stop by the shop and introduce yourself. They’ll likely give you a few local tips and may invite you on a surf trip to another break if you’re lucky.
International Surfers
There’s a regular mix of travelers, digital nomads, and expats in water. Some are experienced surfers who live in Da Nang, but most are just passing through. It’s an interesting mix—different levels, different styles, but generally friendly vibes.
The main surf zones in Da Nang are Holiday Beach in My Khe… most likely because this is the closest beach to My An… the tourist hub where 90% of visitors stay. This is by far the best place to meet other surfers.
Vibe in the Lineup
The lineup is mostly mellow. Crowds aren’t a big issue, but when a sandbar starts working, surfers cluster around it. Surf etiquette is loose—there’s no strict rotation, and it’s common to see people cutting each other off, missing waves, or almost colliding.
But no one seems to care. There’s no localism, no fights, and no serious tension in the water. The waves just aren’t good enough for that. Surfing in Da Nang is mostly an exercise in catching and staying in the wave. On a good one, you might sneak in a floater or a top turn with a little spray. If you’re lucky, you connect two or three turns before it fizzles out.
Expect chaos, keep your expectations low, and don’t take it too seriously.
Other Random Bits of Information
Fresh Water Rinse Stations – there are a few freshwater rinse stations along the beach.
Paid Beach Parking – some areas require payment for parking your motorbike. I recommend carrying a 10k or 20k VND note in case you need it.
A lot of great surfers come from Florida and I meet them all around the world. But Florida has never struck me as a surf mecca. I’ve always known that the conditions are mostly small except when hurricanes light up the coast.
So I went to Florida to see what the waves were like and experience a taste of the surf scene. Although I only got a small taste, I understand Florida surfing a bit better now. Here’s what I learned.
The Waves: Small but Seasonal Surprises
The surf conditions in Florida are, in many ways, similar to what you’d find all along the east coast. For most of the year, the waves are small, generated by short period wind swell. Most storms are moving across the North Atlantic from east to west, which pushes swell into Western Europe and Northern Africa. This is why surf in England, Portugal, France, and Morocco are known to get significant swell.
Florida might get a little residual kickback from these big storms, but if anything it’s not much. Most of the time the east coast of Florida is getting its swell from small offshore storms.
Regardless of the lack of consistent long period swell, there is a great surf culture on Florida’s east coast.
East Coast Florida Surf Culture
You can find surf shops and meet people who live and breathe surfing. I visited in the summer when the waves were small, and the lineup was pretty empty. It wasn’t the buzzing surf scene I’m used to seeing in places like California. But there are plenty of signs of a surf community in most beach areas: surf shops, surfboards on cars, and surf-themed restaurants.
Don’t forget… the GOAT is from Cocoa Beach!
The Vibe: A relaxed beach town vibe was an obvious trait of the beaches I visited in Florida. Maybe it’s all the long boarding or the weather. The winds here stay mellow longer into the day, meaning you can surf well into the afternoon. That’s a big difference from California, where onshore winds pick up mid-morning and often ruin the conditions. The warm water and consistently pleasant weather make wetsuits unnecessary most of the time. It seems like the kind of place where surfing is less about chasing big adrenaline rushes and more about enjoying the simple pleasure of being in the water – which I really appreciate.
Plenty of Space and Easy Access
Another thing that stood out was how uncrowded the beaches were. Florida’s east coast has a lot of coastline, and it’s not as densely populated as places like Los Angeles or San Diego. Even on summer days, I didn’t feel like I had to fight for waves. The abundance of accessible beaches probably plays a role in keeping the crowds manageable. Parking was never an issue, and getting to the water was always easy.
I’m sure beaches around Miami get crazy in peak season, but from my understanding this doesn’t match up with surf season. So as a surfer, the spring break crowds is a non issue.
Sandy Beaches and Friendly Breaks
The beaches themselves were beautiful—mostly wide stretches of white sand. Unlike California, I didn’t see any cliffs, rocky shorelines, or major erosion issues. The sandbanks seemed plentiful, which foster the right conditions for peaky waves once a hurricane sends swell in the right direction. I didn’t come across many reefs or structured breaks, but the sandbars alone seem to offer plenty of variety. It’s an inviting setup for surfers of all levels.
Hurricane Season: The True Test
From what I gathered, hurricane season is the highlight for Florida surfers. When the swells roll in, there’s a short window of perfect waves before the storm conditions take over. Although it’s probably not too crowded when the waves do come in, there must be a bit of a learning curve to know when it’s going to turn on. Surfing too close to a hurricane’s arrival can also be dangerous.
I’d need to spend a season and track my sessions carefully to learn how the surf works in Florida during a hurricane season.
Final Thoughts
Florida’s east coast surprised me. While it might not offer the year-round consistency of places like California, it has its own charm. The small, manageable waves and warm water make it a great spot for beginners or anyone looking for a relaxed surf experience. And for those willing to wait and learn, hurricane season is known to deliver peaky barrels with empty lineups.
Today is the official starting day of the 2024 JB classic and here is the surf forecast outlook for the competition window. Looks like it’s going to be mostly waist to chest high surf through the week with some hope for head high surf on the last two days. Despite the lack of swell, the conditions are clean.
Competition Window: June 14 – 23
Surfline’s Forecast
Windy’s Forecast
J Bay Classic 2024 Surf Forecast
The forecast for the competition window for the J Bay Classic 2024 is looking to be small but clean. Here’s a detailed day-by-day forecast:
Opening Day: June 14
Afternoon: Slight bump in swell
Evening: Potentially decent session with low winds
Swell: Relatively small by Jeffreys Bay standards, but sufficient to kick off the competition
Day 2: June 15
Swell: Small swell in the water
Wave Height: Waist to shoulder high
Conditions: Likely enough to continue with the first rounds
Day 3: June 16
Swell: Very small
Recommendations: Ideal for longboard division
Potential: Possibility of some small sets despite the forecast
Day 4: June 17
Swell: Increase in activity, potentially the biggest bump of the week
Wave Height: Waist to chest high, with possible head-high sets
Conditions: Better in the morning with low and offshore winds
Days 5-7: June 18-20
Swell: Consistent but not very big
Wave Height: Waist to chest high
Wind: Mostly offshore and light
Conditions: Fun surf, but not large
Final Weekend: June 21-23
Swell: Potential for a decent swell push
Wave Height: Head high to overhead sets
Conditions: Potentially good surf to cap off the competition
Uncertainty: Forecasts may change, but there is hope for exciting final days
Overall Outlook
Conditions: Mostly small surf throughout the competition window
Professional Surfing: While not epic conditions, it will be interesting to see how the pros handle smaller waves
Forecast Changes: Keep an eye on updates as conditions may improve
Stay tuned for further updates and enjoy the J Bay Classic 2024!
As the J Bay Classic 2024 surf competition gears up for its launch, the town of Jeffreys Bay (J Bay) in South Africa is undergoing a remarkable transformation. The setup began about two weeks ago, turning the iconic Supertubes Park into a vibrant surf village. With stages for music, a variety of food and drink caterers, and numerous retailers including the WSL official gear and other sponsors, Jeffreys Bay is embracing its role as the host of one of the biggest non-main surf events of the year.
Supertubes EntranceEverything You NeedMain Entrance for SpectatorsCompetitor AreaBeach SetupReceptacles
A Town in Transformation
The small town of Jeffreys Bay, known for its world-class waves and tight-knit community, has been buzzing with activity. Local businesses are preparing for an influx of visitors, and the town’s infrastructure is being enhanced to accommodate the event. The J Bay Classic is not just about the surfing; it’s a festival that brings together music, culture, and commerce, creating an atmosphere of excitement and unity.
Why the J Bay Classic is a “Specialty” Event
In 2024, J Bay is not part of the main WSL Championship Tour due to several key reasons. Instead, it has been designated as a specialty event, allowing for more flexible formats and innovative competition styles that would not fit within the regular tour structure.
Key Factors Behind the Change
Olympic Schedule Conflict: The 2024 Paris Olympics significantly influenced the WSL schedule. With Olympic surfing events set for July 27 – August 5, the WSL needed to create a break in the schedule for surfers to participate and prepare. This tight window made it challenging to include J Bay without compromising other key events.
Economic and Logistical Challenges: Hosting a Championship Tour event at J Bay requires substantial financial investment and logistical coordination. The economic return, while significant, faced scrutiny compared to other locations that might offer higher sponsorship dollars or logistical simplicity.
Strategic Tour Adjustments: The WSL aims to balance the tour by rotating locations to keep the competition fresh and exciting. This year, Cloudbreak in Fiji was reintroduced, resulting in the exclusion of some events, including J Bay and the Surf Ranch. Cloudbreak’s inclusion is intended to bring back a fan-favorite while offering surfers a different kind of challenge.
Community Impact and Reactions
The decision has raised concerns within the local community of Jeffreys Bay, which heavily relies on the economic boost provided by the event. Local businesses, from coffee shops to guesthouses, face significant financial impacts due to the absence of the tour this year. Community leaders and business owners have expressed their disappointment but remain hopeful for the event’s return in 2025.
Cheron Kraak, who started the first surf competition at J Bay in 1981 and owns J Bay’s Country Feeling surf shop, highlighted the economic impact of the event on the region. The absence of the Championship Tour stop means a loss of significant revenue for the town. However, the local community remains resilient and optimistic about future opportunities.
Looking Ahead
The weather is looking great, the setup is wonderful, but the surf forecast suggests we might not see the big waves that Supertubes is famous for. Nevertheless, the event is set to showcase the best of Jeffreys Bay’s vibrant surf culture and community spirit.
Stay tuned for more updates and join us in celebrating the J Bay Classic 2024, where innovation meets tradition, and the heart of Jeffreys Bay beats stronger than ever.
The World Surf League (WSL) is hosting the WSL J-Bay Classic this year instead of the WSL pro tour event.
Event Date: June 14 to 23, 2024.
This specialty event will showcase a unique hybrid format, blending alternative and high-performance surfboards, and a special mixed teams division. Although the surf forecast doesn’t show big swell, the conditions will be clean.
Event Format
Hybrid Format: Surfers will compete using both twin fin and thruster surfboards. The competition is designed to highlight the versatility and skill required to master Supertubes.
Rounds: The main event includes two rounds. The top four men and women from these rounds will advance to Finals Day.
Mixed Teams Division: Six mixed teams will compete in 45-minute sessions, adding an exciting collaborative element to the competition.
Competitor Categories and Invitees
Who is surfing in the J Bay Classic 2024?
A host of non-tour surfers have been invited to compete in the J Bay Classic 2024. Given that the forecast is not looking spectacular, there may be some surfers who don’t make it out to South Africa for the event. But there is plenty of talent to spectacle.
Women’s Invitees:
Alana Blanchard
Sage Erickson
Sally Fitzgibbons
Stephanie Gilmore
Coco Ho
Sierra Kerr
Men’s Invitees:
Adriano De Souza
Michael February
Jack Freestone
Mason Ho
Sean Holmes
Josh Kerr
Travis Logie
Mark Occhilupo
James Ribbink
Steven Sawyer
Kelly Slater
Owen Wright
Local Trials – Women:
Sarah Baum
Sophie Bell
Louise Lepront
Zoe Steyn
Jessie van Niekerk
Faye Zoetmulder
Local Trials – Men:
Aboubakr Bouada
Teva Bouchgua
Eli Beukes
Sung Min Cho
Chad du Toit
Max Elkington
Daniel Emslie
Joshe Faulkner
Tide-Lee Ireland
Shaun Joubert
Dylan Lightfoot
Thomas Lindthorst
Surprise Maphumulo
Jordy Maree
Adin Masencamp
Remi Peterson
Slade Prestwich
Connor Slijpen
Luke Slijpen
Dale Staples
Shane Sykes
Luke Thompson
Spectator Information
Competition Window: June 14 – 23, 2024. Heats will be scheduled based on optimal surf conditions within this window.
Heat Schedules: To know when the heats will run, check the WSL website or their official social media channels daily. Announcements are typically made the evening before.
Results: Live scoring and results will be available on the WSL website. Highlights and heat replays will also be accessible for those who want to catch up.
Surf Talent Rundown
Competitors’ History at J-Bay
Here’s a brief overview of the competitors’ history and performances at J-Bay, focusing on some of the key invitees and local surfers for the upcoming WSL J-Bay Classic.
Women’s Invitees
Stephanie Gilmore
Achievements: Eight-time World Champion.
Performance at J-Bay: Won the Corona Open J-Bay in 2018, demonstrating exceptional skill on the challenging waves of Supertubes. Gilmore is known for her fluid style and strategic prowess, making her a formidable competitor at this break.
Alana Blanchard
Achievements: Prominent surfer and model, known for her influence in the surfing world.
Performance at J-Bay: While Blanchard hasn’t secured major wins at J-Bay, her competitive experience and style bring a lot of excitement to the event. She has been a consistent presence in various surfing competitions globally.
Sally Fitzgibbons
Achievements: Consistently ranked among the top female surfers.
Performance at J-Bay: Fitzgibbons has had strong performances throughout her career, though specific details about her J-Bay results are less highlighted, her competitive edge remains sharp.
Coco Ho
Achievements: Comes from a family of legendary surfers and has a strong competitive record.
Performance at J-Bay: Known for her powerful and stylish surfing, Coco has competed at J-Bay multiple times, adding to her experience and familiarity with the wave.
Men’s Invitees
Mark Occhilupo
Achievements: 1999 World Champion.
Performance at J-Bay: Won the 1984 Country Feeling Classic at J-Bay at the age of 18. His backhand attack at Supertubes is legendary. Occhilupo remains one of the most respected figures in the sport and is highly anticipated at this event.
Kelly Slater
Achievements: 11-time World Champion.
Performance at J-Bay: Slater has had numerous memorable performances at J-Bay, including several victories. His innovative and strategic approach to surfing has made him a standout at this venue.
Michael February
Achievements: Local talent from Cape Town, South Africa.
Performance at J-Bay: February’s familiarity with the wave and local conditions gives him a unique advantage. He is known for his stylish and smooth surfing, making him a local favorite.
Josh Kerr
Achievements: Known for his aerial maneuvers and creative surfing style.
Performance at J-Bay: Kerr has competed at J-Bay multiple times, impressing with his innovative approach and technical skills.
Owen Wright
Achievements: Renowned for his powerful and precise surfing.
Performance at J-Bay: Wright has had strong performances at J-Bay, consistently showcasing his competitive spirit and mastery of the wave.
Local Trials Invitees
Women
Notable Competitors:
Sarah Baum: Consistent performer in local and international competitions.
Zoe Steyn: Young talent with a promising future, known for her dynamic surfing.
Men
Notable Competitors:
Eli Beukes: Emerging talent with strong performances in local events.
Dylan Lightfoot: Experienced competitor with a solid track record at J-Bay.
Joshe Faulkner: Known for his powerful surfing and local knowledge.
Like waves, I am simply a product of my environment.
Each wave is subtly shaped by a multitude of factors before it takes its final form at the coastline. A slight change in bathymetry will mold the same swell into various shapes and sizes as it reaches its terminus. It’s incredible how the same swell, starting from one source of energy thousands of miles away, can produce such vastly different waves up and down a short stretch of coastline.
I am no different.
My genetic makeup is akin to a waves’ initial swell and my environment the outside factors that shape it. I like to think my identity and motivations come from a pure inner source, but in my clearest moments of thought I know they don’t. I’m simply a product of my environment.
Even my surfing, which should be a pure expression at it’s core, is shaped on a daily basis.
The Pro Influence: Watching the World Surf League, I find myself longing to surf like the pros. It’s strange how imperceptibly my concept of what surfing is can shift away from the pure experience and toward competition. I catch myself jockeying in the lineup, my mind unconsciously drifting towards ‘surf status’, ‘priority’, and getting the waves I ‘deserve’. Embarrassed as I catch myself, I have to reset and remember I’m not surfing to make the tour.
I’ve noticed a good hold-down will humble me back into being myself.
Social Media’s Sway: Then there’s the Instagram rabbit hole. Lately, it’s been mid-length twin fins catching my eye. I find myself drawn to these boards and the different lines they can draw on a wave. Today, even though I’m on my regular thruster, I try a few long drawn out cutbacks instead of the default check-snaps. I like the way this feels. I probably look like an idiot.
Size Perception: And then there’s the effect of a dry spell. When it’s ankle high for more than a week, and suddenly a chest to head-high swell rolls in, it feels enormous. I feel like I’m charging Waimea Bay on a gun as I charge into my first few waves, but it doesn’t take long to become accustomed. After a few days of fun-sized surf a waist high day makes me question whether I should even paddle out.
Being aware of how the environment shapes me doesn’t do much to change its influence on who I am. My current philosophy in this regard is the same as my surfing philosophy: take what the wave gives you and try your best to stay in the pocket.
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Surfing, I’ve realized, is much more than the thrill of riding waves. Especially on the not-so-great days, it’s a recalibration of modern comforts, which helps me appreciate life outside the water.
The Cold: Some early morning surf sessions become a battle with the cold. After getting out of bed and before getting into my sweats. Between my sweats and my wetsuit. That first duck dive. The last 20 minutes of the session… waiting for just one more good wave I can be satisfied with taking in. Then back at the car between my wetsuit and my sweats.
And then there’s my feet. My damn feet! Why are they always so cold for so long?
My Feet: Even a standard morning session can put my feet to the test. When it’s cold a cobblestone path becomes a bed of nails and a slight breeze pokes at my numb extremities. A nick from a rock or a bruise from the back of my board hurt like hell and last longer than they should. Yet I refuse to wear booties until I’m at risk of frostbite.
My Stomach: An hour in to my session I start thinking about my next meal. Two hours in my dreams turn from a healthy breakfast to burgers, burritos, and candy bars. Anything beyond this and I’m elated to just have any source of calories.
The Reminder: It only take a small bit of exposure to the elements before I’m returning home grateful for what I took for granted just a few hours earlier when I left the house. A warm shower, a pair of Rainbows, and a PB & J are heavenly.
In my chase for waves the short-lived discomforts help keep the rest of my life in perspective.
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