Surfing Phuket “How to Surf Reef Breaks”
Reef Breaks
There is a huge variety of reef breaks around ranging from Tropical Coral reefs, flat rock shelves, boulder bottoms and sand and reef mixtures.Of course they break in their own unique and special ways. Just as no wave ever breaks the same twice each reef will have its own signature. Shape and power depend on depths and bottom contours.Reefs with a deep ocean dropp off will have a lot of more power than a shallow gentle sloping reef. Many volcanic islands have perfect set ups for power shape and beauty. These islands have no continental shelf surrounding them so the power can at times be immense. Hawaii, Bali, Tahiti are all classic examples of volcanic Island coral reef power. There are a countless number of reef breaks around the world and many of them when the conditions are right will and can be world class on their day. Below are some tips for surfing these reef breaks. I am sure you will find them useful.
1 Look for destinations that have trade or seasonal winds. Try and link up swell periods and offshore winds within the same season. Example Bali Consistant trade winds and swells.
2 Most reefs are best surfed at mid to high tides. On small days wait for an incoming tide to increase the consistancy and height. Outgoing tides seem to drag swells away.
3 When surfing a reef for the first time observe local surfers for where they position themselves in the line up. Don’t be shy to ask about any dangers.
4 Observe the water surface can you see any boils (circles of water) when the waves pass by. This will happen in shallow areas or where there many be an irregular shape in the reef floor, large boulders etc. This may be a dangerous area or it could be where the tube section begins.
5 Avoid cutting your leash (legrope) on sharp parts of the reef.
6 Observe safe areas to paddle out ! and don’t rush, plan it. Watch locals for safe areas for coming in and going out.
Big Waves and cold water, somewhere in Australia. Boulder style reef break
You can also go to www.myspace.com/surfingphuket to watch a surf trailer!
Happy Surfing
Marty Ware
