Point Arena Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Alright folks, Rusty here. Let's have a look at what's coming down the pipe for the local stretch.

Right off the bat, the first few days are a bit of a write-off. We’ve got some small, weak swell but the wind is all over the place, leaving the ocean looking messy. It’s not until the afternoon of Wednesday, September 18th that things finally click. That afternoon, the wind goes glassy, and we’re looking at a clean little 2ft runner from the SW with a very long 19-second period. It’s not big, but it will be picture-perfect and you’ll have it to yourself. The combined wave energy is moderate (602), but the quality will be the standout.

Point Arena is a reef setup, and it’s very consistent, exposed to the NW. The water temp is sitting at 58°, which is about average for this time of year.

For a bigger, more powerful session, the best bet is the afternoon of Monday, September 14th. The swell jumps to 10ft from the NW, with a short 8-second period, but the wind is clean cross-off. The wave energy is very strong (1445). This is big, heavy, and only for the experienced crew. The crowds are often here, so expect a few others with the same idea.

The morning of Sunday, September 20th is worth a mention too. It’s got a 7ft NW swell, but with a south wind creating a cross-on chop. It’s a bit of a battle but the energy is there (1495). It’s a pick for the die-hards who don't mind a bit of a fight.

The afternoon of Wednesday, September 23rd has an 8ft NW swell with a solid 12-second period, and clean cross-off winds. The energy is strong (1115), but with that longer period, it might be a bit too straight for the beach breaks—this reef spot should handle it well.

Bottom line: the first week and a half is a slog with nothing but marginal conditions. The real window opens mid-month. The glassy afternoon on the 18th is the hidden gem, while the 14th is the big, powerful standout for the experts.

Stay safe, and I’ll see you in the water.

Rusty.

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