Chicama - El Cape / Keys Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Alright folks, Rusty here. Let’s cut through the info and give it to you straight. The next couple of weeks are going to be a waiting game, so don’t go selling your boards just yet.

The outlook for our stretch is pretty grim for the first week and a half. We’ve got a persistent southerly wind blowing onshore the whole time, which is going to chop up whatever swell we have. The energy in the water is there, but it's being ruined by the wind. For a spot like Chicama - El Cape / Keys, which needs clean lines to really shine, this is a frustrating setup.

The first real chance of anything half-decent doesn't show up until Friday, September 4th. The wind drops out, giving us a gentler breeze, and the swell ticks up to around 5ft from the southwest. The period is a solid 16 seconds, so there’s some proper groundswell in it. The energy is pumping, but the forecast still calls it marginal, with some question marks about the tide. It’s not going to be perfect, but it’s the first time the onshores back off, so it could be worth a paddle if you’re desperate.

Honestly, that September 4th morning window is the standout of the whole run. It’s not a classic, but it’s the only time the wind aligns with a pulse of swell. The water is a balmy 70°, which is 6° warmer than normal for this time of year – that’s very unusual, so you won’t need a thick suit.

After that, it’s back to the grind. The wind stays on it, the swell fades, and we’re left with weak energy for most of the following week. There are some days around September 7th and 9th with glimmers of a better period, but the size just isn’t there, and the wind keeps it messy.

So here’s the deal: The best bet on the board is the morning of Friday, September 4th. Get the dawn patrol. It won't be epic, but it'll be the most surfable it gets. For the rest, keep your expectations low and your timing flexible.

Later, Rusty.

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