Overview
Cappoons Bay is a small stretch of coast with a wide open window to the north, northwest and northeast, and the reef sitting in front of the famous Bomba Shack is the reason to come. It's a perfectly A-shaped reef that grooms incoming swell into ruler-edged walls, throwing both rights and lefts over coral and rock. It's the most consistent surf spot in these islands, and when the swell has a little west in it the left comes to life and the rights bowl up nicely. Expect a genuinely fun wave.
When It Works
The reef picks up any scrap of swell that's out there, taking anything from north-northwest to northeast (NNW-NE). It works from 1.2 m / 4 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft, and once the face gets past roughly 8 to 10 feet it starts closing out. Autumn and winter are the core seasons: late summer and fall bring the tropical cyclone swells, while late fall through early spring is where the consistency lives. On a sizeable swell, be ready for a decent amount of paddling.
Wind and Tide
Look for southeast (SE) offshore wind, with a workable window running from east-southeast to south-southeast (ESE-SSE). The reef can work through most of the tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
The wave suits just about anyone, from beginners through to experts, and takes everything from shortboards and fish to funboards, longboards and bodyboards. Being the most consistent spot around has a price: expect a moderately busy lineup that can get pretty crowded when there are waves, so unless you get lucky or paddle out under a full moon, you'll be sharing the peak. The vibe is somewhat reserved rather than heavy, so mind your manners. Watch for a few rocks on the inside.
Access
Parking is right there at the spot.
