Oceanside Harbor Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Alright, Rusty here again. Let's break it down for you guys who think in feet.

First thing's first: the water temp is pretty normal for this time of year, nothing crazy.

The first chance at a wave is Friday, August 14th, but it's a total waste of time. We're looking at knee-high slop from the SSW, about 2 to 3 feet, but with a cross-onshore breeze. It's going to be choppy and messy. The energy is pathetic. Saturday and Sunday are a repeat of the same weak, wind-affected dribble. Honestly, from the 14th all the way through the 26th, it's a brutal flat spell. The swell barely gets above 3 feet, and the wind is always in the wrong spot. Don't even bother.

Now, pay attention. The end of the month looks like a totally different story. Thursday, August 27th, the swell kicks up to 5 to 6 feet from the S. The energy jumps way up. It's still a bit onshore, so it'll be lumpy, but at least there's some size.

The real standout is Friday, August 28th. This is the one. The swell is a solid 7 to 8 feet from the SSW, with a long 14-second period. The energy is heavy. But the magic is the wind. In the afternoon, it's forecast to be glassy. Flat calm. For a beach break, that means clean, perfect, powerful waves. This is expert territory only – that size is serious, and the long period will make it hollow and fast. It's going to be packed, absolutely packed, with the crowds. But for that one afternoon, if you're good enough, it's the best surf on offer.

The next day, Saturday the 29th, the swell drops back to 5-6 feet and the wind turns back onshore, ruining it.

So, expect a long, boring summer lull until the very end. Then, keep your fingers crossed for a glassy, powerful swell on Friday, August 28th. It's a long-range call, so it's not a lock, but it's a hell of a lot more promising than anything else on the board.

Rusty.

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