Overview
Whale Bay (Raglan) is a left-hand point breaking over boulders. It has a reputation as the lesser of Raglan’s three left points, but it is still an excellent wave and can pack a punch at smaller sizes when it breaks close to the rocks and sections on the headland east of the bay.
On bigger days the wall tends to lose steepness and roll along, unless the swell is more west to northwest, when it can barrel over the boulders.
When It Works
Whale Bay is consistent and takes swell from southwest to northwest, with southwest as the optimal swell direction. It is usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 3.7 m / 12 ft.
Wind and Tide
The offshore wind direction is southeast. It can be surfed on low, mid, and high tide, with a rising tide better.
Local Tips
This spot suits intermediate surfers. It is often slightly less crowded than the other two Raglan points and has fewer locals, which can give intermediates more of a chance.
Watch the rocks, as some can pop up suddenly. The jump-off spot is tricky, so take care.
Access
From Raglan, come in on Main Road, which becomes Bow Street. At the first roundabout, turn left onto Bankart Street, then left at the next roundabout onto Wainui Road. Continue past Manu Bay Reserve, turn right onto Calvert Road, then right onto Tohora Close.
Park around Tohora Close, using the free car park or roadside parking. It can be very busy in summer. A walkway at the end of Tohora Close leads past the houses and down to the beach. Restrooms are available.
