Nanwan surf guide

Nanwan is the main beach for Hengchun, located on the southeastern coast of Taiwan. This spot has become popular among surfers due to its unique waves and scenic backdrop. The beach faces southeast and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, drawing in both locals and tourists. It's a pretty solid spot, especially for those looking to enjoy some surf away from the usual crowded beaches.

The surf at Nanwan really shines with a southeast swell, and it handles waves in the range of about 2ft to head high (0.6m to 3m). The right reefbreak is what many come here for, offering nice curves and a clean face on low to mid tides. If conditions align just right with a solid typhoon swell, you can find some decent barrels. However, it’s generally suited for intermediate surfers who can navigate the uneven reef and varying wave types. On bigger days, it's essential to be careful of the coral and to keep an eye on the swell direction, which can also come from the southwest.

Besides Nanwan, there are other spots in the area that can provide different wave experiences, like the shallow rights and lefts at Houbihu Harbour or the long, hollow rights further out at Houbihu Point. If you're looking for a change of scenery, you can find more beach breaks scattered along the east towards the resort beaches of Kenting, especially when a south swell is running. For the best results, a northwest wind is preferable, so keep that in mind as you plan your sessions.