Big Wave Africa

Reb Bull hold an annual big wave surfing competition at Dungeons near Hout Bay which attracts some of the world's best big wave surfers. Using specialized big wave boards this surfers compete on massive waves that form on the Dungeons reef off the Sentinel.

The waves form about 500m offshore and the shore is mountainous so spectators watch from the elevated position of the Sentinel. Many people also pay for boat trips out to the surf spots on the tourist boats that normally take trips to seal island.

To watch the competition there are several options. There is a big screen in the dedicated area within the harbor for those not keen to make their way all the way to the Sentinel viewing point. Otherwise there is parking near Mariners Wharf in the harbor with a shuttle running people up to the viewpoint. Many people also just drive up the Sentinel and hike the rest of the way to the viewpoint.

If you are willing to pay the best views of the competition are to be had from the boats that bring spectators fairly close to the offshore action. This is the best way of getting an idea of the size of the waves. In 2008 the boat trips were priced at around R120 for and 1.5 hour trip.

• The best views are from the boats. Head to the harbor area and take one of the boats that normally run trips to Seal Island. Be sure to shop around for the best deal, as there are several boats running trips out to the surfing.