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Surf · Malolo Lailai, Nadroga e Navosa
Cloudbreak (Recife de Cloudbreak)
A reef break in the southern Mamanucas, known in the surfing world for its long, tubular waves that break over coral, accessible only by boat.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Cloudbreak (Recife de Cloudbreak)
Cloudbreak is a reef wave that breaks over a coral shelf in the southern Mamanucas, a few kilometers from Namotu and Malolo Lailai, out at sea. It is known in the surfing world for its long, left-hand tubular waves and hosts stages of international competitions.
The wave works with swells coming from the south, which are usually larger from May to October. On big days, sets exceed several meters and the wave is only suitable for experienced surfers; on smaller days, boats take intermediate surfers to nearby peaks such as Restaurants and Swimming Pools.
There is no sand or beach: access is by boat, with operators from neighboring islands, and boats stay in the channel beside the wave. Non-surfers can join to watch and photograph, and there are boat trips that pass the reef on big-wave days.
The coral is shallow on the inside, and the reef should be treated with respect: enter and exit via the channel indicated by the boatman and wear clothing that protects the skin.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
A morning or an afternoon, including the boat trip there and back.
Best time
From May to October, when southern swells are usually larger. Tide and wind change the wave throughout the day; boat operators choose the timing based on conditions.
How to get there
By boat only, from Malolo Lailai, Namotu, Tavarua or other islands in the southern Mamanucas, with local operators. From Denarau there are surf boats that do return day trips.
Tip
Bring a rash guard, water-resistant sunscreen and drinking water. If you don’t surf, arrange with the boatman for a safe spot to watch in the channel.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cloudbreak (Recife de Cloudbreak)
Is Cloudbreak for beginners?
No. It is a shallow, powerful reef wave for experienced surfers. Boats take beginners and intermediates to easier waves.
When are the waves bigger?
Larger southern swells typically arrive from May to October.
Can you go just to watch?
Yes. Surf boats usually take companions, who watch from the channel beside the wave.