Overview
Roches-Noires is a reef setup with a string of right-hand waves breaking over dead coral. The stretch covers a wide spread of abilities, from the rare, north-swell slabs of Cachera and L'Escalier down to gentler sections like Banc de Sable and La Digue, where even beginners can get waves when the swell is big.
When It Works
It draws swell from the south right through to the north, with north (N) swell the best match. The reef works from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 3 m / 10 ft, and it breaks consistently, so you can count on reliable windows across that range.
Wind and Tide
Look for northeast (NE) offshore wind. The reef can work through low, mid, and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
The mellower sections stay approachable for beginners, especially when there is size to spread the crowd across the stretch. Expect a busy lineup when it is working.
