Indian River (Northside) Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Alright, this is Rusty checkin’ in from the coast. Let’s have a look at what the next couple of weeks has got cookin’ for us.

Right now, we’re lookin’ at a long, dry spell, I’m sorry to say. The first real chance of any surfable waves doesn’t appear until Monday, August 17th, and even then it’s pretty marginal. So for the next week? Basically flat. If you’re itchin’ to get wet, you’re gonna have to be patient. The wind is mostly offshore through the early part, which is a tease, but with no swell to work with, you’re just lookin’ at a glassy lake.

That first little flicker of life kicks off on Monday the 17th in the afternoon. Indian River (Northside) is the only game in town. We’re talkin’ tiny bumps: 2 ft from the SSE. The wind goes light and clean out of the SSW, so the surface should be alright, but the energy is weak – only 44 on the energy scale. The period is short too, 6 seconds, so it’s gonna be crumbly and soft. This is strictly for the beginner crew or anyone desperate for a paddle. Best described as "surfable but ordinary."

Tuesday the 18th afternoon sees a pulse of longer-period groundswell from the SE at 15 seconds, pushin’ waves to 1 ft. The combined energy jumps to 96, which is better, but it’s still tiny. The real highlight here? The wind goes glassy in the afternoon. It’s a rare moment of perfection in the conditions, even if the size is laughable. You’ll get the cleanest little peelers of the whole outlook, but you’ll be fightin’ for scraps.

Wednesday morning the 19th is probably your best bet. We get 2 ft from the ESE with a nice 12-second period, energy up to 119 – the strongest in the whole 16-day window. The wind is light and cross-off from the SSW. That combo gives you the best chance at a fun, rideable little wave. It’s still not big, but it’s the best on offer. Crowds are possible here, so don’t expect it all to yourself.

After that, it’s a slow slide back into mediocrity. The swell stays tiny through the end of August, with a bit of a bump in energy around Saturday the 22nd (4 ft from the east, 7 seconds, energy of 159), but the wind is cross-on and messy, so it’s gonna be choppy and hard to enjoy. That kind of combo with onshore wind and a beach/jetty setup? Honestly, looks more interesting for the kite surfers than anyone paddling.

Overall, hold your horses. The first week is a total write-off, and the second week offers only a few moments when you could squeeze something out of it if you’re desperate. Wednesday the 19th morning is the standout, but set the bar low.

- Rusty

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