Dunes Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Alright, Rusty here, let's take a look at what's cookin' at Dunes over the next couple of weeks.

Right now, it's a bit of a slow grind. The early part of the week ain't delivering much; Tuesday morning the swell is there at 2 ft from the southwest, but the wind is howling at 25 mph. It’s offshore, sure, and the wave energy is moderate (351), but it's a real struggle to paddle into. We get an okay afternoon session on Tuesday, but the real spark doesn't hit until Thursday afternoon. The 13th of August, Thursday afternoon, we see a drop to glassy conditions. The swell is a modest 3 ft from the southwest, but with a period of 14 seconds it's got some shape. The wave energy is moderate (311). That glassy, clean surface makes it a real treat, and for a reef break this will offer some nice little corners.

Friday the 15th of August, Saturday morning, is the standout of this first week. The swell bumps up to 4 ft from the southwest, with a solid 16-second period. The energy is pumping (547). It’s glassy, clean and the combo of that longer period and the reef bottom will set up some powerful, peeling lines. It’s got "very good surf conditions" written all over it. Keep the crowds in mind, as they are sometimes around, but this is the one to circle.

Then things get interesting, and a touch gnarly. Around the 18th and 19th of August, the swell kicks up, reaching 5 ft–6 ft from the WSW. The wave energy jumps to strong (1356 on Tuesday morning). This is now a solid intermediate session; the 5 ft to 6 ft range is pushing into expert territory for some. The wind stays clean enough, especially Tuesday morning with a gentle offshore.

Now, for the real heavy hitters. On the 20th and 21st of August, we’ve got a significant run up. Thursday morning the 20th shows a massive 8 ft swell from the WSW with wave energy at 3726, and by afternoon it’s 10 ft. The wind is clean, but this is for experts only. It’s going to be too big and powerful for any novice. The sheer energy (strong to very strong) means even the reef will be a washing machine. Friday the 21st is still over 7 ft, so still a serious session.

We round out the period with a lovely return to form on Sunday the 23rd of August. The afternoon brings 5 ft swell from the SW with a long 17-second period. The wave energy is strong (1760) and it is glassy. This is another absolute gem for experienced surfers, offering clean, powerful lines.

For the water temperature, you’re looking at about average for the time of year.

So, to wrap it up: your best bets are Saturday morning, August 15th for a great, glassy session under 4 ft, and Sunday afternoon, August 23rd for the powerful, clean, long-period groundswell. These are the ones to get excited about, mate.

Rusty.

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