Oceanside Pier Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Okay, let me swap over to feet and Fahrenheit now.

Right now we’re looking at a pretty average stretch at Oceanside Pier. The swell is running around 3 ft to 4 ft from the SSW to SW for most of this week, but the wind is mostly onshore or cross-onshore, keeping the surf from cleaning up. The combined swell energy is moderate to moderate-strong, sitting in the 500s to 800s (812 on Sunday afternoon), but that cross-onshore breeze from the WSW or W is putting a bump on it. The water temperature is sitting at 73°F which is much warmer than normal for this time of year—you’ll definitely feel it getting in the water.

Now, Thursday the 24th of July morning, we see a nice bump with a long period swell from the SW at 24 seconds and combined energy of 1132. That’s a groundswell with real punch. Swell height is only 2 ft but with that period it’ll have some shape. The wind is a light 9 mph onshore, so it’s not perfect but it’s the best wave quality in this early window. Friday afternoon the 24th and Saturday the 25th also show cleaner options with light breeze from the SW, periods around 13-21 seconds, and energy in the 900s to 1000s. Still just small, 3 ft to 4 ft, but those windows with light onshore or offshore wind might give you a couple of fun ones.

Come Saturday the 1st of August, we see the swell topping out around 6 ft from the SSW with a 13-second period—so it’s getting a bit more size. Combined energy is 1106 to 1077. That’s probably the chunkier end of the window, but it’s still marginal—the fine print says “marginal surf,” so don’t expect gem-like conditions. Winds are light onshore from the SSW to SW, so it might be better for a stronger paddler.

Now, after the 2nd of August, things fade quickly. Swell drops to 4 ft and under, periods shorten, and energy crashes into the hundreds. By Monday the 3rd we’re talking 2 ft to 3 ft with poor conditions. Basically it goes flat and messy.

The standout in this whole 16-day run is honestly Thursday the 24th of July morning—that 24-second period groundswell is rare. It’s only 2 ft but with that much period it could break with some real shape at the pier if you get the tide right. The downside: it’s a beach break setup and long period SW swell can be straight, but the light onshore makes it possible. After that, Saturday the 1st of August offers the most size at 6 ft but still with cross-onshore elements. If you want the cleanest odds, aim for Thursday the 24th morning.

Crowds can happen here sometimes, and the pier is exposed, so expect company if it looks decent.

Rusty.

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