Duppies is located on the northwest tip of the island and is known for its consistent and powerful right-hand waves. This spot is often regarded as one of the best on the island, just behind Soupbowls. It breaks at a distance from the shore, and while it has a reputation for being a bit sharky, there haven't been any attacks in the last hundred years. The name "Duppies" comes from local folklore about malevolent spirits, which adds a unique vibe to the place.
To get the best out of Duppies, you’ll want to wait for a strong north swell. It starts working at head-high (around 2 meters) and can handle sizes up to 20 feet (about 6 meters) with some serious power. When it’s around head-high, the waves offer a fun California-style point break, particularly at lower tides. At double overhead (about 6 meters), Duppies becomes a more challenging wave, so it’s not for the faint of heart. Be mindful of the strong currents running south, especially when paddling out. It’s best to paddle north for about 100 yards while hugging the cliffs before heading out to where the waves break.
Accessing Duppies requires a bit of a hike down the cliff, so be careful on that path. Once you're in the water, prepare for a big playing field, especially when the surf is large. The spot generally doesn’t get crowded, and you’ll mostly share the waves with just a few other surfers. This is a winter spot, with optimal conditions when the swell comes from the north or northeast, and east winds are preferred. It’s best suited for expert surfers with the right gear like shortboards, fish, or guns.
