Surfnerd Short Icon

Backdoor (Cactus)

Hourly Forecast
Timezone: Australia/Adelaide
GFS Atmos (run: N/A)
GFS Wave (run: N/A)
⏱️s.
⚡️kJ
🔮
🌒
Friday 5
Saturday 6
Sunday 7
Monday 1
Tuesday 2
Wednesday 3
Join Surfnerd+
Unlock wave energy for all spots
Check 12-days ahead with Surfnerd+
🌟 Learn more on how to read a surf forecast

Primary Swell

Check 12-days ahead with Surfnerd+

Primary Swell Energy

kJ
Join Surfnerd+ to check wave energy for all spots
Join Surfnerd+

Wind

Check 12-days ahead with Surfnerd+

Tide

Check 12-days ahead with Surfnerd+

Secondary Swell

Join Surfnerd+ to check secondary swells for all spots
Join Surfnerd+

Tertiary Swell

Join Surfnerd+ to check tertiary swells for all spots
Join Surfnerd+
Join Surfnerd for free to check this forecast
Join Surfnerd to check forecasts, set your homespot, save and create spots and log your surf sessions.
Sign up with Google

Do you already have an account? Login instead.

Ideal surf conditions at Backdoor (Cactus)

Swell window
S, SSW, SW, WSW, W
Best swell direction
SW
Swell size
3ft - 10ft
Swell breaks over
Uneven Reef
Wave types
Reef
Wave directions
Right
Wind window
NE
Offshore wind
NE
Works at
Low
(Better on rising)
Best tide type
Low
Skill Level
Expert

Backdoor (Cactus) surf guide

Backdoor (Cactus) is located in the northern corner of the bay and offers a right-hand reef break that can deliver some intense rides. While it can be a bit hectic, it’s a spot that attracts those looking for good performance. The crowd isn’t usually too thick due to its tricky peak, which can often put off locals, making it a decent choice for travelers who want to enjoy some thrilling surfing without too much competition.

The waves here work best with swells coming from the southwest, with south and west swell angles also delivering something rideable. When the swell hits about 3 ft (1 meter), you’ll really start to see the potential of the barrels, especially on a low tide when the reef gets exposed. This break is purely for experts, requiring skill and confidence to navigate the sharp, uneven reef while chasing down those right-hand barrels. For the best conditions, look for northeast winds.

It's worth noting that Backdoor (Cactus) can handle a range of swell sizes, but timing your session with the right tide is essential to fully enjoy what this spot has to offer. When the conditions align, it can deliver some solid tube rides that will keep advanced surfers coming back.

Surf reports and surf forecasts nearby Backdoor (Cactus)