Brandons surf guide

Brandons is a surf spot located on the south coast of Barbados, close to Bridgetown. It's a sandy reef peak that works best on big hurricane swells or southeast wind swells. When the NE trade winds blow, it creates decent conditions for surfing. Generally, Brandons serves up some fun, long, rolling waves, primarily featuring lefts with the occasional right. While it can be user-friendly, especially for beginners in the summer, it also has its moments when it delivers more challenging rides.

The best chances for good surf come during the summer, autumn, and winter months. Ideal swell directions are from the southeast, east, and south, with the spot handling swell sizes from about 1 meter (3 ft) to 2.5 meters (8 ft). The waves are mostly reef breaks, leaning towards lefts but offering rights as well. With the normal trade winds running offshore, surfers can expect pretty clean and groomed waves. Paddling can require some effort when it’s bigger, so be prepared for a workout if the conditions are up. The beach bottom has a sand-covered reef, making it a relatively safe environment.

Expect to share the waves as Brandons can get crowded, particularly in the winter. The local vibe tends to be a mix of welcoming and territorial, so it’s best to keep things friendly and respectful if you're not from the area. Accessing the spot is straightforward; just head by the horse track and look for the colonial fort ruins nearby. Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced, Brandons can offer a bit of fun for everyone, especially when the surf is firing.