Coffee Bay lies in the heart of the Transkei, easily the most rural of all the stops we have on the South Africa 10 week trip. The rolling hills of the region are home to the Xhosa people of South Africa, their unique culture and way of life made a culturally rich experience for every one during our stay. What truly sets Coffee Bay apart though is its scenery; raw ocean against steep cliffs, rolling hills, mud huts and free roaming cattle create a sense of being truly ‘in the middle of nowhere’. It is undeniably beautiful and a treat for the soul.
Charlie, animated as usual upon checking out the waves
The surf in Coffee Bay is something that seems to be different every time I visit, the Wild Coast has its name for good reason and being so exposed to the elements it what gives it it’s character and thrill. I’ve been there when there has only been sand, I’ve been there when all the sand has been washed away leaving only exposed rock, I’ve been there when there has been something in-between. The banks and waves are constantly changing throughout the year and you never really know what you’re going to get, it’s all part of the journey.
Challenging waves of more consequence were on offer; Charlie committed as ever
The conditions were up and down and it made our lessons and free surfs a bit more challenging than we have become accustomed to here but the whole crew did well considering we had favourable winds throughout our whole stay but the banks weren’t great, we had plenty of double-up dumpers with a few running gems in-between so it was the luck of the draw with some getting great rides and the others struggling to find the same quality.
The few who are doing this exact same trip for the second time were stand-outs in the water and consistently caught the best waves in the sessions, really backing their ability and showing full commitment in the heavier conditions. The past knowledge of the spot and the extra weeks of surfing they had under their belt really showed in this regard.
Grace meets aggression, Jenny navigates the critical
Charlie staring down the gauntlet
Overall Coffee Bay toughened us up and really got everybody focussing on the basics as the waves we had really made every part of our surfing critical, to score you had to be calculated and accurate in execution. There was plenty to learn out there and in the safe hands of Jarred (head coach) everybody pushed their limits drawing from the inspiration and energy he puts into his work.
Check out some of the waves we got during our stay in this edit