Summary
Dunedin is one of the best cold-water surf destinations in New Zealand, located on the rugged southeast coast of the South Island. As the second-largest city on the island (after Christchurch), Dunedin offers powerful Southern Ocean swells, uncrowded breaks, and a thriving local surf culture.
While conditions here can be chilly year-round, the reward is crowd-free surf and consistent waves, perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers willing to suit up and paddle out.
Why Surf in Dunedin?
Dunedin might not have the tropical feel of North Island surf towns like Raglan, but it makes up for it with:
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Consistent swell from the Southern Ocean
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Empty lineups even on good days
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Beach breaks suitable for all skill levels
The city’s location means surf is accessible right near town, making it easy to score waves without driving far.
Best time to Surf Dunedin
The best time to surf Dunedin, New Zealand is from April to June for more consistent waves and favorable wind.
| January-February | March-April | May-June | July-August | September-October | November-December | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suitable for: | All surfers | All surfers | Intermediate Advanced | Intermediate Advanced | Intermediate Advanced | All surfers |
| Air temperature | 15°C 59°F | 13°C 55°F | 9°C 48°F | 8°C 46°F | 10°C 50°F | 13°C 55°F |
| Water temperature | 12°C 54°F | 11°C 52°F | 9°C 48°F | 8°C 48°F | 9°C 48°F | 10°C 50°F |
| Crowd | Few people | Few people | Few people | Few people | Few people | Few people |
| Swell consistency | 65% | 75% | 80% | 80% | 70% | 65% |
| Swell height | 5ft | 6ft | 7ft | 7ft | 7ft | 6ft |
Where to stay in Dunedin
You may also be interested in: our Surf Guide to Raglan, North Island.
Surf spots in Dunedin
St. Kilda Beach
One of Dunedin’s most popular surf beaches, St. Kilda is a sandy beach break offering both lefts and rights. It’s ideal for all levels, from first-timers to experienced surfers.
Wave direction : Left and right
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : S
Optimal wind direction : NNW
Smails Beach
Just a short drive from the city center, Smails Beach is a reliable beach break that catches plenty of swell. It’s known for fun peaks and a bit more power than St. Kilda.
Wave direction : Left and right
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : S
Optimal wind direction : N
Dunedin
The coastline surrounding Dunedin offers several accessible and versatile surf breaks right in town. These spots work across all tides and cater to every skill level.
Wave direction : Left and right
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : S
Optimal wind direction : NW