Vanuatu is often thought of as a diving and snorkelling destination, but for surfers, it offers some of the most untouched waves in the South Pacific. With swells rolling in from both the Southern Ocean and seasonal low-pressure systems, the islands deliver clean, powerful surf with fewer crowds than other destinations.



Surfing Conditions in Vanuatu

Vanuatu has surfable waves all year round, but the best surf season runs from March to December when Antarctic lows push consistent southern swells across the islands.

• March to December: Peak surf season. Reliable southern swells and ride lengths reaching 40–50 metres. Waves average 5–6 feet.
• December to April: Wet season brings heavier rainfall and bigger swells. Cyclones are possible during this time. Northern coastlines receive strong swells from low-pressure systems.

The result is a diverse range of surf experiences, from clean point breaks to reef setups that suit both intermediate and advanced surfers.

Best Surf Spots in Vanuatu

Vanuatu’s surf is spread across multiple islands, making exploration part of the adventure. Unlike more commercial surf destinations, many of these breaks remain uncrowded and pristine.

Efate (Port Vila & Surrounds)

Efate, home to Port Vila, has some of the best-known surf breaks:

• Pango Point – world-class right-hand reef break, consistent and powerful.
• Breakas – famous left-hander, close to resorts, great for intermediates.
• Devils Point – advanced surfers only, heavy reef waves.
• Erakor Reef – playful reef break, fun for mixed skill levels.
• Forari Bay – long rides when the swell lines up.

Santo & Dany Island

Santo is better known for diving, but Dany Island is a hidden surf gem.

• Waves pump in from the north-east, breaking on both the north and south sides.
• Offers both rights and lefts, generally 2–5 ft.
• The wind often blows opposite the swell, leaving waves glassy and clean.
• Private and protected, Dany Island is perfect for a surf day trip with no crowds.

Other Islands & Remote Spots

For adventurous surfers, Vanuatu’s outer islands offer genuine discovery.

• Tanna Island – untouched surf with raw, powerful breaks.
• Port Resolution (Tanna) – a mix of reef and beach breaks.
• Mangea Reefs, British Beach, Epao, Soumabal Point, Pounders, Tapi Point – scattered locations that offer variety and challenge.

Why Surf Vanuatu?

• Uncrowded waves: Unlike Bali or Fiji, you’ll often have breaks to yourself.
• Adventure travel: Getting to some breaks involves boats, seaplanes, or local ferries.
• Local experience: Many resorts and beachfront stays connect surfers directly with Ni-Vanuatu communities.
• Variety: From mellow reef breaks to heavy rights and lefts, there’s something for every level.

Surfing Near Aore Island

While Aore Island itself is calm and protected  perfect for swimming and snorkelling  Santo’s Dany Island provides some of the best surfing near Aore. This makes it easy to combine a stay in Aore’s beachfront resorts with a short trip to catch clean, uncrowded waves. Daily ferries from Aore to Santo make transfers simple.

Travel Tips for Surfers

• Bring your own board – rental options are limited outside Port Vila.
• Reef boots – many breaks are shallow reef.
• Cash in Vatu – for ferries, charters, and local guides.
• Timing – surf early for glassy conditions before the trade winds pick up.
• Local respect – always ask before paddling out near villages, as many breaks are community-owned.
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Conclusion

Vanuatu is still under the radar as a surf destination, but that’s exactly what makes it special. With consistent swells, clean reef breaks, and no crowds, surfers have the chance to experience waves in their raw, untouched state. Stay beachfront on Aore Island for calm island life, and take day trips to Santo and beyond for uncrowded sessions at places like Dany Island and Pango Point.

For surfers looking for both waves and adventure, Vanuatu is one of the Pacific’s last great frontiers.