Australia SA, Australia
An A-frame reef break on the coast of Australia SA.
| Wave height | 6.8 ft (6-8 ft) |
| Swell period | 8 sec |
| Swell direction | 209° |
| Wind | SW cross/onshore 14.5 kt |
| Tide | low |
| Surf score | 56 / 100 |
Cactus is an A-frame reef break on the coast of South Australia, Australia. On the right day, the ideal swell window runs from SSW–WSW (210–255°); groundswell with periods around 11–18s gives it the most shape; the wave is comfortably workable up to roughly 15 ft on the face. Best winds are N or NE, with NW or E still rideable. Tide influences the wave moderately, so timing the swing helps line up the better sets. The sweet spot in our data sits between roughly 0.4 m and 1.6 m of tide height. Consistency is moderate - good days come in pulses tied to incoming swells. Expect mild water that may call for a spring suit. Crowds stay manageable outside peak swells. Logistically, it is roughly 2 hours from CED airport; logistics are demanding and best handled with local guidance. It rewards strong, confident surfers and is not the right place for a first session of the trip - paddle fitness and wave-reading both matter. Board-wise, locals lean on step-up / shortboard.
The best window is typically Apr–Oct, when swells from SSW–WSW (210–255°) are most consistent.
In our data the spot is workable up to roughly 15 ft on the face on the right swell and wind, beyond which it usually becomes unmanageable or closes out.
Not really - it suits advanced surfers and is not the place to learn.