North Point is one of Australia's most powerful right-hand points, tucked near Gracetown and Cowaramup Bay behind the protruding headland of South Point. It peels over the barnacle-crusted rock of Cowaramup Reef and belongs in the same conversation as heavyweight points like Snapper, Lennox and The Bluff. On the right day, rides here can run more than 300 metres.
When It Works
The reef draws swell from south through west, with southwest (SW) the standout direction, and it takes a fair amount of S to SW energy to swing onto the rock line. It works from 1.2 m / 4 ft to 4.6 m / 15 ft. On smaller swells there are two distinct sections that only the most skilful surfers can link together: the outside rears up quickly into a throaty barrel section or two before slinging into a hollower inside, where holding your speed is crucial. As the size climbs you can tuck under thick, dredging lips down a very long wall. It can be somewhat inconsistent and really needs the right setup to show its class, though it still gets ridden in less-than-perfect conditions.
Wind and Tide
Look for an east (E) offshore wind to bring out the best of it. The wave favours higher water, working on mid and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This is an expert-only wave. At double overhead, only experienced paddlers on pintails should be out there. The reef is unforgiving and home to protected species like urchins, shellfish and live sea shells. Some locals live for this wave and are often deep on the foamball, so dropping in is genuinely dangerous for everyone. Expect a busy lineup when it is working.
Access
Getting out is a big paddle unless you take on the keyhole, where sneaker sets stalk the lineup. Further out to sea, back toward Gallows, sits a tow-in bombie called Cow Reef. Onshore you will find camping and a surf shop, along with a car park with free parking and roadside parking.
