Horse Trails Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Alright, let’s get into it.

The next couple of weeks are looking like a bit of a mixed bag for Horse Trails. There’s some solid swell on the horizon, but the wind and the size are gonna be the deciding factors on whether it’s worth paddling out or just watching from the sand. We’ve got a run of days where the surf is too big or the conditions are iffy, but there are a couple of windows that should light up.

First off, this Monday morning (August 17th) is where we kick things off. We’ve got a clean 8ft SW groundswell with a 13-second period. That’s proper energy rolling in, and the combined energy is a solid 2354. The wind is a light cross-offshore breeze, keeping the face smooth. It’s gonna be firing and clean, but this size is pushing it for the average surfer. You’ll want your wits about you. Also, the water is sitting at a chilly 55°, which is over five degrees colder than normal for this time of year. That’s not just a little nippy, that’s a real cold snap, so you’ll need the thickest wetsuit you own.

After that morning session, the rest of the week gets a bit messy. The wind swings onshore or cross-shore, and the swell stays in that 8ft to 8ft range but gets chopped up. Afternoons are particularly poor, and the magic from Monday morning is gone. This stretch from Monday afternoon through Wednesday afternoon is looking pretty average, honestly.

Now, here’s the big one. Thursday morning, August 20th, the swell jumps up to 12ft from the SW. The energy reading is 3425, which is serious power. But, the comment on this is clear: it’s just too big for this break. It’s going to be a washing machine out there, and this is only for the experienced crew. The wave direction is good, and the wind is not terrible, but that size is the story. It's a similar situation on Monday, August 31st, and Tuesday, September 1st. We're looking at another 12ft SW swell on the 31st with energy hitting 4757 – that’s a lot of water moving. Even though the wind is glassy on the Tuesday morning, that 10ft swell is still too much. These days are best left for the chargers and the heavy hitters.

The search for a truly standout, user-friendly day is tricky. The best chance for a clean, manageable wave looks like the afternoon of Wednesday, August 26th. The swell has backed off to a friendly 6ft from the WSW, and the wind goes completely glassy. It’s a moment of calm in a storm of average conditions. The energy is a weaker 910, but with the ocean flat and smooth, it could be a fun, mellow session if you can find a peak. That’s your chance to get out without getting pounded.

Looking further out, there’s a promising pulse for Friday, August 28th morning. It’s showing 8ft of WSW swell with a longer 14-second period. The energy is up at 2782. The wind is light and cross, which might leave it a little lumpy, but there’s some real potential there. But remember, that’s over a week away, so treat it as promising, not a guarantee. The forecasts get less reliable the further out we go.

So, to sum it up. Get out there early on Monday morning if you’re up for a challenge. Keep your eye on the 26th for a glassy, smaller wave. And for the brave, the last day of August and the start of September are going to be serious. A lot of this period is just waiting for the wind and the swell to line up, but there are definitely waves to be had if you’re willing to pick your moments.

This is Rusty, signing off. Stay wet.

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