BackDoor (Haifa)

BackDoor is a steep, hollow right-hand reef break protected by two jetties on Bat Galim beach at the southern end of Haifa Bay. The reef is moss-covered, which surfers describe as feeling relatively soft against the body compared to typical bare rock. It works best with west-northwest swell combined with south winds, particularly during winter Mediterranean storms, and produces Israel's most reliable tubing waves. The break is advanced-only due to the shallow, sharp reef, and hazards include not just the reef itself but also surrounding rocks, pollution from Haifa's port, and heavy crowds when conditions align.

The Israeli surfing tradition itself dates to the mid-1950s when pioneer boards arrived and local shapers began producing equipment in Haifa during the 1970s. BackDoor became a core break as the domestic scene developed, taking its name from the famous Hawaiian peak due to wave similarities. While professional surfing competitions have returned to Israel in recent years, Bat Galim hosts international wind and kite-surfing events more prominently than reef-break competitions.

BackDoor sits at the far southern end of Haifa Bay adjacent to the skeleton of the historic Casino hotel. The beach includes a surf club that provides rental and lesson services. Tide does not significantly affect wave quality at this break. Water temperatures vary considerably by season, ranging from around 17°C in early March to 28°C in summer, so winter wetsuit coverage is advisable.