Drakes Estero Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Right, let's have a look at what's on the cards for Drakes Estero.

Alright, so the first week of this outlook is pretty average. We've got swell running, but it's small, mostly in the 2ft to 4ft range, and the wind is usually cross or cross-offshore, which keeps things clean enough. But the wave energy is moderate, around 400 to 600 (combined energy). It's the kind of surf that'll get you wet but don't expect any fireworks. The water temp is about average for this time of year, nothing wild.

The standout window really starts to show up from the 29th of July. On the Wednesday morning, the 29th, we've got a solid 4ft swell from the SW, with a light cross-offshore breeze. The wave energy jumps up to 1076 (moderate to strong), and the conditions are clean. This is the best on offer for the whole run—excellent conditions for the more experienced crew. The swell is from the SW, which is the optimum direction for this spot, and with that light breeze, it'll be glassy. Crowds are a possibility here, so get in early.

Then, as we roll into the 31st of July and the 1st of August, the swell size picks up a bit more, hitting 6ft to 7ft, but the period drops to around 8 seconds. That's a short-period windswell, so it'll be a bit lumpy and less powerful. The wind stays cross-off, so it'll be clean on the face, but the short period means it's not the same quality as the 29th. The wave energy is still strong (820 combined energy), but it's just not as good.

The 2nd of August sees a bit of a drop again, with a 6ft swell but a cross-on wind, making it a bit choppy. Not the best way to end the outlook.

So, if you're looking for the one session to get excited about, it's the morning of the 29th of July. That's your best bet. The rest of the time? It's a waiting game with some small, clean waves, but nothing to write home about.

Rusty.

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