Tuamoto Island is a surf spot located off the coast of Gisborne, offering a unique surf experience. The island can be accessed by a long paddle from Sponge Bay or a short boat ride, making it a bit isolated and perfect for those seeking less crowded waves. Surfers can expect a laid-back vibe, but it’s essential to know the conditions as the spot requires some experience.

The waves at Tuamoto Island can get really fun, especially when the southeast swell hits. Long lefts break along the southern reef when there's a medium E-S swell, which invites locals to enjoy some tube time at The Bowl. On lower tides with NNE winds and S swells, you can catch great waves from the peak all the way to the channel. For those looking for a challenge, smaller but intense rights can be found at Inside Island when there’s more E or even huge NE swell, with NW winds providing the offshore conditions. The spot handles swell sizes around 1 meter to 1.5 meters (3 ft to 5 ft), and both lefts and rights offer thrilling rides. Keep in mind, it’s mainly for expert surfers due to the uneven reef and sometimes tricky conditions.

Overall, the spot requires a bit of effort to get to, with a long paddle of about 1.2 km from Sponge Bay, but once you’re out there, it can be worth the trip. Whether you’re paddling out or taking a boat, knowing the tides and swell direction will help you score some decent waves. Remember, low to mid tides are preferable for the best surf experience.