Whangapoua is a surf spot located on Great Barrier Island, accessible by car ferry. This area offers a mix of rugged, natural beauty and laid-back vibes. It’s not as crowded as some other well-known spots, which can be a nice change. The beach features various camping options, making it a good destination for surfers looking to enjoy a few days by the ocean.

The wave at the rivermouth is the main attraction here and works best with NE swells. You'll find it breaks mostly over sand, producing right-hand waves that can be fun, especially for intermediate surfers. The spot can handle swell sizes starting from 1 ft (about 0.3 meters) and works well at lower and mid tide levels. If the surf isn't firing here, there are other options around the island, such as Awana and Medlands, which pick up E swells and can offer some fun, albeit smaller, waves.

Whangapoua's surf can get a bit more unpredictable compared to the mainland, mainly due to stronger rips and occasionally sharkier waters. Conditions are usually better when the wind is blowing from the southwest. So, if you’re planning to surf here, make sure to check the wind and swell direction for the best experience.