Magheraroarty Strand Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Alright, this is Rusty, and I’ve been staring at the charts for the next couple of weeks. It’s a mixed bag for us, with a long, slow start and then some serious size that’s only for the brave.

Right now, the surf is just about flat, and it’s going to stay that way for a few days. The first real chance to get wet won’t be until Sunday the 30th of August, and even then, it’s pretty small. After that, there’s a big gap of heavy, messy, or way-too-big swell before things might settle down again in the second week.

The absolute standout window, and I mean the one that’s got my heart rate up, is the end of the first week. Magheraroarty Strand is a point break that’s usually an inconsistent spot, but it’s a rare treat when it lines up. It’s a beginner-friendly break normally, but that’s going out the window here.

The real action kicks off on Thursday the 3rd of September. The afternoon is looking at a massive 13ft swell from the west, with a period of 13 seconds. That’s a proper groundswell. The combined energy is a staggering 5601 (strong to very strong wave energy). The wind is a fresh cross-offshore breeze, which will keep it clean. But listen, 13ft is way over 8ft, so this is strictly for experts only. The water is a touch warmer than normal for the time of year at 61°F.

Friday the 4th keeps the big stuff going. Morning sees another 13ft swell from the west-northwest, with a 12-second period and a combined energy of 4385 (strong to very strong wave energy). The wind is strong and cross-offshore, so it’ll be a bumpy, high-speed ride. The afternoon drops a bit to 12ft, but still a solid 2778 (strong wave energy) and clean cross-offshore wind. Again, this is for the big-wave crew only.

Saturday the 5th and Sunday the 6th see the swell drop to a still-considerable 8ft to 8ft from the west-northwest, with a 9-second period. The combined energy sits between 757 and 871 (moderate to strong wave energy). The wind is a moderate cross-shore, making it a bit choppy. This is still big for beginners, but for the experienced paddler, it’s going to be a fun, powerful session.

The forecast for the second week is less certain. Monday the 7th drops back into the messy range, with smaller, choppier surf. There’s a chance on Wednesday the 9th of September for a 5ft swell from the north with a 6-second period, and light cross-offshore winds, but it’s nothing to write home about.

So, to sum it up: the first few days are a write-off. The second week is a gamble. The one true, undeniable standout is the 3rd and 4th of September. If you’re an expert and you’ve got the quiver for it, that’s your window. The water is a touch warmer than normal, but the power is the main event. For everyone else, this is a chance to watch the show.

This is Rusty, signing off.

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