The Wave
Best on south-southeast swell with west offshore wind.
Surf GuideCatlins
Papatowai
Papatowai is a remote Catlins surf break that has become a South Island big-wave reference point, with barrels and a powerful hollow character when the southern swell lines up. It is more mission than town wave, set around the rocky point off the Rainbow Isles. Get the latest surfing conditions, forecast, and tide details for Papatowai in Catlins.
Break TypeRiver Mouth
Skill LevelIntermediate - Advanced
LocationCatlins, NZ
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Spot Guide
Lineup Insights
Lineup Guide
Tide is secondary, so judge the sand, current, and cover around the rocky point before committing.
The spot can turn powerful, hollow, and barrel-like, with sharks and rips part of the risk picture.
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