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Cribber

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Ideal surf conditions at Cribber

Swell window
SW, NW
Best swell direction
W
Swell size
12ft - 12ft
Swell breaks over
Uneven Reef
Wave types
Reef
Wave directions
Left, Right
Wind window
SE
Best tides at
Low, Mid
Skill Level
Expert

Cribber surf guide

Cribber is a surf spot known for its heavy, big-wave conditions. It's not your average surf location, as it only really comes to life under specific circumstances. This spot rarely works, needing perfectly clean conditions and swells of at least 12 feet (about 3.7 meters) to break clear of the rocks. Once a quiet place, it gained fame after Chris Bertish surfed it in 2004, and now it’s much busier with big-wave surfers.

The surf here can be pretty intense. It works best with west swell directions, but can also handle swells coming from the southwest or northwest. The waves break over uneven reefs, offering both lefts and rights, though rights are generally safer. The best wind direction is southeast, and you want to aim for low to mid tide heights for optimal conditions. This spot is definitely for experts only, due to savage rips, nasty rocks, and the potential for long hold-downs.

Access to Cribber is quite limited, and it's important to note that it’s only suitable for big-wave surfers. If you’re looking to hit this spot, park in the Little Fistral car park. Just be prepared for some serious conditions and to share the waves with other skilled surfers.

Surf reports nearby Cribber