Cottons Point Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Alright, Rusty here. Let’s have a look at what’s coming our way.

The next 16 days are looking pretty flat for the most part. We’re kicking off with a long stretch of weak, messy surf that’s more of a paddle practice session than anything worth getting excited about. The first real chance at a wave is on Thursday, September 17th, and even then it’s only marginal. The whole run is plagued by mostly cross-onshore winds and a real lack of energy. The water is sitting at a very unusual 73° at the start, which is much warmer than normal for this time of year.

Cottons Point is the only spot on the menu, and honestly, it’s a struggle. We’ve got a 16-day period with a massive gap of no decent surf. From Tuesday, September 15th right through to Thursday, September 17th morning, it’s all “poor surf conditions” with tiny, weak swell. The first hint of something rideable shows up Thursday morning, September 17th with a 3ft SSW groundswell at 16 seconds, but it’s still only a 1/10. The combined wave energy is moderate (462), but the light onshore wind is messing with it.

The best of a bad bunch looks to be on Sunday, September 20th. The morning is cross-onshore, but the afternoon session on the 20th sees the swell holding at 3ft from the SW with a long 18-second period, and the wind swings to a light onshore breeze. The combined energy is strong at 654. It’s still only rated marginal due to tide, but that long period groundswell from the SW is what this reef and point break is after. For a point, that long period can mean some nice lines, though it might close out a bit on the beach sections. Keep in mind this spot is consistent, so it’s not a complete fluke. Crowds are possible here, so don’t expect to have it all to yourself.

There’s another flicker on Monday, September 21st with a 3ft SSW groundswell at 17 seconds and light onshore wind, giving a combined energy of 627. Again, it’s marginal, but it’s the biggest swell of the whole forecast.

After that, it’s back into the doldrums. From Tuesday, September 22nd right through to the end of the period, the swell drops and the winds stay cross-onshore or onshore. The last possible marginal session is on Sunday, September 27th morning, with a tiny 2ft SW swell at 12 seconds and near-glass conditions (light onshore wind at 3 mph). It’s weak (249 combined energy) and low period, so it’ll be small and gutless. Beyond that, it’s just small, choppy leftovers.

Honestly, for the next two and a half weeks, your best bet is the Sunday afternoon, September 20th or Monday afternoon, September 21st for the best shot at a few longer lines, but don’t expect any standouts. The rest of the time, you might be better off with a longboard or just waiting for the next swell.

Rusty.

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