Cape St Francis · South Africa
Cape St Francis Surf Forecast & Surf Guide
Cape St Francis is a right-hand point / beach setup in Cape St Francis, South Africa. A scenic Eastern Cape surf zone with right-hand point sections and open beach peaks that respond well to south and southwest swell. Use the live forecast below to compare wave height, swell direction, period, wind and tide before choosing your session.
LIVE CONDITIONS
Cape St Francis surf forecast
Compare surf height, swell direction and period, wind, tide and temperature before deciding when to paddle out.
Cape St Francis Surf Report & Forecast
Current Surf Conditions
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Primary swell
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Forecast temperatureSURF SPOT GUIDE
About Cape St Francis
Cape St Francis is one of the better-known surf options around Cape St Francis. A scenic Eastern Cape surf zone with right-hand point sections and open beach peaks that respond well to south and southwest swell. The break is best approached as a conditions-dependent wave: swell angle, period, local wind and tide can change the character quickly. The page below combines a live forecast with practical spot information so surfers can judge whether the setup matches their ability and equipment.
BEST CONDITIONS
When does Cape St Francis work best?
Swell
S to SWUse swell direction together with period and size to judge how much energy will reach the break.
Wind
NW offshoreFavourable wind can help keep the wave face cleaner and more organised.
Tide
Mid tide; bank dependentTide interacts with swell size and the bottom shape, so compare the live curve with the ocean.
Season
May to SeptemberSeason tells you when the regional swell pattern is most likely to favour this spot.
The preferred pattern is S to SW swell with NW offshore wind. Mid tide; bank dependent. Longer-period swell usually adds more power and can make the surf more demanding than the raw wave-height number suggests. Always compare the forecast with what is actually happening at the beach or reef.
SKILL LEVEL
Who should surf Cape St Francis?
Cape St Francis is generally suited to intermediate to advanced surfers. The correct level can change with size, tide and crowd pressure, so treat this as a guide rather than a guarantee. If the surf is larger or faster than expected, choose a more sheltered nearby break.
SURF SEASON
Best time of year
The main surf window is may to september. Outside the prime season the spot can still work, but swell consistency, wind quality and wave size may be less predictable.
LOCATION
Where is Cape St Francis?
Cape St Francis is located in Cape St Francis, Eastern Cape, South Africa, at approximately -34.2050, 24.8350. Use the map and local access information before travelling, as parking and shoreline access can change.
- Latitude
- -34.2050
- Longitude
- 24.8350
SAFETY & LOCAL ETIQUETTE
What to know before paddling out
Main considerations include rock or reef underfoot, shifting sandbanks and rips, powerful sets and hold-downs when swell increases, crowds and long rides that can carry surfers away from the main entry. Observe the lineup, identify a safe entry and exit, respect local priority rules and do not paddle out when conditions exceed your experience.
NEARBY SURF
Other surf spots near Cape St Francis
CAPE ST FRANCIS FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the best swell for Cape St Francis?
S to SW is the preferred swell direction listed for this spot. Swell size and period also matter, so compare the complete live forecast.
What wind is best for Cape St Francis?
NW offshore is generally the favourable wind setup. Local topography can change how the wind feels at the water.
What tide is best for Cape St Francis?
Mid tide; bank dependent. Tide interacts with swell size and period, so check the live tide curve before surfing.
What level is Cape St Francis for?
The recommended level is intermediate to advanced. Conditions can make any surf spot easier or more difficult, so choose a session that matches your experience.
When is the best surf season for Cape St Francis?
May to September is the main season listed for this spot. Day-to-day quality still depends on swell, wind and tide.
CHECK BEFORE YOU GO
Plan your next Cape St Francis session
Conditions change quickly. Recheck swell, wind and tide shortly before you surf and compare the forecast with the ocean in front of you.