Big Ben Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Alright, let’s get into it. Right now, the surf at Big Ben is pretty average, but there are a few windows of clean conditions that are worth a look.

The water temperature is sitting at 76°, which is about normal for this time of year, so no need to dig out the steamer.

Sunday the 12th is a bit of a write-off – we’ve got a solid 8ft SSW swell pushing in with a long 16-second period, so there’s plenty of energy (3049), but the wind is cross and bumpy. That’s a lot of water moving around with a chop on it, not great for a clean ride. It’s more of a challenge than a pleasure.

Monday morning the 13th is where it gets interesting. The swell drops to a more manageable 4ft from the SW, with a 13-second period, and the wind goes glassy – dead calm. That’s the kind of morning you set an alarm for. The energy is moderate (582), but with zero wind, those waves are going to be clean and smooth. This is the standout of the forecast period.

Tuesday the 14th morning also has glassy conditions, but the swell is down to 3ft and energy is low (238). It’ll be small and clean, good for a longboard or a beginner session.

Now, from Wednesday the 15th through to the end of the week, we hit a dry spell. Swell drops below 3ft, winds turn onshore or cross-shore, and the energy readings are all in the low hundreds. There’s nothing worth paddling out for.

We get a little spike again on Saturday the 18th of July – 8ft SE swell with a 12-second period, energy is strong (1955). But the wind is cross-onshore from the east, making it messy. That’s a lot of power but poor quality, and at that size, it’s really only for experienced surfers, and even then the conditions won’t do it justice. Might be more interesting for the kite crew.

The following week stays small and mostly onshore, with a brief glimmer on Tuesday the 21st morning: 4ft from the east, 10-second period, and glassy conditions. Energy is moderate (422). That’s another small, clean window but nothing to get too excited about.

Overall, the best bet is Monday morning the 13th of July – glassy, waist-to-chest high SW swell, and the place to yourself since it’s inconsistent. Crowds are possible here, but on a Monday morning with that forecast, you might get lucky. Just keep an eye on the tide.

Rusty.

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