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Gills Bay

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Ideal surf conditions at Gills Bay

Swell window
W, NW
Best swell direction
NW
Swell size
4ft - 10ft
Swell breaks over
Boulders
Wave types
Point
Wave directions
Left
Wind window
SW
Best tides at
Low, Mid, High
Skill Level
Expert
Seasons
Autumn, Winter
Board types
Shortboard, Fish, Longboard, Bodyboard

Gills Bay surf guide

Gills Bay is a long, green headland located in a remote area that's home to a left-hand point break. This spot is known for its ability to handle big swells, especially from the Northwest (NW) and WNW. Its isolation means it rarely gets crowded, so you can often enjoy the waves without too much company. However, it only tends to work well on big days, so don’t expect consistent sessions.

The surf here can get heavy and hollow, especially during good NW swells, with the size ranging from head high (about 1.2 meters) to double overhead (about 3 meters). The best ride tends to happen at mid tide, where you might find longer sections that link up. While the wave can fire, it can also be tricky since it breaks over boulders, and sections can come up if the tide drops. This is definitely a spot for experts looking for a challenge, as the currents and rips can be intense due to the famous Pentland Firth.

Access can be a bit tricky; parking is limited so you’ll have to walk from the harbor, which adds to the effort. You might also catch a glimpse of killer whales if you're lucky. Gills Bay works best in autumn and winter, so that’s when you’ll want to plan your trips. For board types, shortboards, fish, longboards, and bodyboards all have their place here, depending on your style and what the conditions serve up.

Surf reports nearby Gills Bay