Empty Lots Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Alright folks, Rusty here. Let’s have a look at what’s on the menu for Empty Lots over the next couple of weeks.

Honestly, we’re looking at a real tough stretch of days to start. The first recommendation for a surf doesn’t come until the 16th of August – that’s a solid two-week wait with nothing but poor surf conditions and marginal forecasts. For the first week, the onshore and cross-shore winds are just relentless, messing up what little swell there is. The swell energy is mostly moderate, but the quality is just not there for a paddle. You’d be better off with a kite if you’re desperate for a fix.

The first real glimmer of hope shows up on the morning of Sunday, the 16th of August. The wind switches to a light cross-offshore breeze from the north-east, and the forecast is calling for "very good surf conditions". The swell is a solid 6 ft from the east, with a moderate period of 8 seconds. The combined energy of all swells is moderate at 594, so there’s some push. This is a reef break, so it can handle that size, but it’s an advanced spot, so don’t be a kook if you’re green. The crowds are only "sometimes" an issue, so you might have it to yourself.

Then, the standout. Tuesday morning, the 18th of August. The wind goes dead glassy – absolute glass. The swell holds at 6 ft from the east, period still 9 seconds, and the energy is moderate at 626. The forecast is again "very good surf conditions". This is the one to circle on the calendar. Clean, glassy conditions at an exposed reef break, with a decent chest-to-head-high swell. It’s still an advanced wave, but the quality will be there for the crew who know what they’re doing. The water is a warm 81°, about average for the time of year, so you’re in a shorty at most.

So, to sum it up: suffer through the first two weeks of nothing, then get in the water on the morning of the 16th, but the absolute best bet is the glassy morning of the 18th. That’s the one.

- Rusty

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