There was a time when you had limited access to the most popular Fiji surf breaks. Your access depended on where you stayed. Fortunately, that's no longer the case. Back in July 2010, the Fijian government passed the Regulation of Surfing Areas Decree, which opened the breaks to everyone. The Decree's purpose was “to liberalise access to any surfing area in Fiji and thereby enhance Fiji’s image as a premier surf travel destination.”
The upshot is that you can now enjoy world-class surf spots like Cloudbreak, Restaurants and Wilkes Pass regardless of where you stay during your Fiji surf holiday. Here's what you can expect to find when you visit those 3 acclaimed surf breaks.
#1 – Cloudbreak
Cloudbreak is one of the most popular Fiji surf locations among pro riders. Located a few miles below Namotu Island near Tavarua, it's not for the fainthearted. High faces sometimes exceed 8 metres and bend to form long, powerful barrels that can propel you for hundreds of feet.
But take caution. Cloudbreak travels over shallow reef. Additionally, it's sometimes unpredictable with waves coming in from different angles.
If you could only visit one spot during your Fiji surf holiday, Cloudbreak should be it. But if you're inexperienced, it's a good idea to stay on the sidelines.
#2 – Restaurants
When conditions are right, Restaurants rivals Cloudbreak in terms of the gorgeous waves it produces. Strong offshore winds blowing in from the southeast and powerful groundswells approaching from the southwest create a racetrack for experts. In such conditions, the barrels at Restaurants, which can extend to over 100 metres, are as close to perfection as you're likely to find in Fiji.
This Fiji surf break is located between Tavarua and Namotu. If you stay on Namotu, you can reach it within 30 minutes. Just be careful during low tides. Restaurants can be challenging and even hazardous for the unwary.
#3 – Wilkes Pass
This exposed reef break is reputed to be one of the most consistent surf spots in the South Pacific. It's located just off the northwest face of Namotu Island and offers waves that can test the mettle of any surfer, novice or pro.
When winds blow in from the northeast and groundswells come in from the southwest, Wilkes Pass becomes one of the most engaging surf breaks in Fiji. The waves are smaller than those found at Cloudbreak and Restaurants, but you'll find they're just as much fun to ride.
Note that Wilkes can occasionally whip up high waves that warrant caution. If you're a beginner, let the pros take the lead.
One of the advantages to staying at Namotu Island Resort is that you'll be near some of the most celebrated surf locations in the world. In addition to Cloudbreak, Restaurants and Wilkes Pass, you'll have easy access to Namotu Lefts, Desperations and Swimming Pools.
If you're planning to enjoy a Fiji surf holiday in the near future, let the responsive staff at Namotu Island Resort help make your stay unforgettable.