
Surf Report - 9/15 to 9/19/24
Ride the Perfect Wave Every Day:
Your Essential Guide to Understanding Daily Surf Reports
Welcome to the ultimate guide for Santa Cruz surfers! If you’ve ever wondered how to time your surf sessions perfectly, you've come to the right place. We will break down the crucial elements of wind, tide, and swell to help you navigate the waves with confidence. By understanding these key factors, you’ll be able to choose the best times to hit the surf and catch the perfect wave. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, our tips and insights will ensure you make the most of every surf session in Santa Cruz.

Best Days to Surf
Tuesday Afternoon (September 17): The wind is expected to ease to 10 to 15 knots, and the seas will be 6 to 8 feet with NW waves at 8 feet and a period of 9 seconds. This is the most favorable window in terms of wind and wave conditions.
Wednesday (September 18): Conditions remain relatively good with NW winds of 15 to 20 knots, and seas will be 4 to 5 feet with NW waves at 4 feet and a period of 8 seconds. This offers decent conditions with a manageable sea state.
Thursday Afternoon (September 19): The wind is expected to be lighter at 5 to 10 knots, and seas will be 6 to 8 feet with NW waves at 7 feet and a period of 9 seconds. This should provide good surfing conditions, especially in the afternoon.
For the best experience, aim for the times when the wind is lighter and the seas are more favorable. Tuesday afternoon, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoon are your best bets based on the current forecast. Be sure to check updated conditions before heading out, as weather can change rapidly.
Tidal Chart
Tides play a crucial role in surfing because they influence the shape and behavior of the waves, as well as the accessibility of surf spots. Tides are the rise and fall of sea levels caused by the gravitational forces of the moon and sun, and they cycle through high and low points approximately every 6 hours. https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/noaatidepredictions.html
