Surfing in West Coast
9 surfing spots in West Coast, New Zealand. The colours show each month: the stronger, the better for surfing.
Updated November 2026 · weather data 2022–2026
In short
- Best waves in West Coast: June–August (waves 1.5–1.6 m, water 12–14°C, 5/4 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves).
- Smaller waves and the warmest water, good for beginners: January–March (waves 0.6–0.8 m, water 18–19°C, 4/3 wetsuit).
- Top picks: Karamea, Tauranga Bay – Cape Foulwind & Westport – North Beach.
- For beginners: Greymouth – Cobden.
Wave height: average daily maximum.
Month by month in West Coast
| Month | Waves | Water | Wetsuit | Air |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JanuaryJan | 0.6 m | 19°C | 3/2 wetsuit | 20°C |
| FebruaryFeb | 0.6 m | 19°C | 3/2 wetsuit | 20°C |
| MarchMar | 0.8 m | 18°C | 4/3 wetsuit | 19°C |
| AprilApr | 0.9 m | 16°C | 4/3 wetsuit | 17°C |
| MayMay | 1.2 m | 15°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 15°C |
| JuneJun | 1.5 m | 14°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 13°C |
| JulyJul | 1.6 m | 13°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 13°C |
| AugustAug | 1.6 m | 12°C | 5/4 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves | 13°C |
| SeptemberSep | 1.5 m | 13°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 14°C |
| OctoberOct | 1.2 m | 14°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 15°C |
| NovemberNov | 1 m | 15°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 17°C |
| DecemberDec | 0.8 m | 17°C | 4/3 wetsuit | 19°C |
Averages of the 9 spots on this page. Best months highlighted. Air: average daytime high.
Questions
When is the best time for surfing in West Coast?
Best waves in West Coast: June–August (waves 1.5–1.6 m, water 12–14°C, 5/4 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves). Smaller waves and the warmest water, good for beginners: January–March (waves 0.6–0.8 m, water 18–19°C, 4/3 wetsuit).
What wetsuit do I need in West Coast?
It depends on the month: about 19°C water in January (3/2 wetsuit) and about 12°C in August (5/4 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves).
Is West Coast good for beginners?
Yes, these spots suit beginners: Greymouth – Cobden.
Which airport is closest?
Westport Airport (WSZ), 70 km from Karamea; Hokitika Airfield (HKK), 36 km from Greymouth – Cobden.
