Raffs Beach Surf Forecast and Surf Report

G’day, Rusty here. Look, if you’re hanging out for a wave at Raffs Beach, you’re going to have to be patient. For the first few days, there’s plenty of swell, but it’s just too damn big for this beginner-friendly spot, so the paddle-out is a no-go for the crew. We’ve got a bit of a gap before things settle down into something surfable.

Starting Monday the 13th of July, the ocean is angry. We’re seeing a solid 10ft to 12ft SW groundswell with a long 15 to 16-second period, and that combined energy is massive – hitting 4511 on Monday morning and up to 5099 in the arvo. The wind’s a fresh cross-off from the NW and WNW at 22 mph, which would normally be okay, but the wave heights are just too much for this break. It’s a beginner zone, and anything over 5ft is pushing it, so give it a miss. Tuesday the 14th keeps the same theme: 10ft to 13ft SW swell on Tuesday afternoon, with a monster combined energy of 10874. The wind is a moderate cross-shore, but the surf is way too big for a safe session.

We finally get a window on Wednesday the 15th of July, but it’s only marginal. Swell drops to 8ft to 8ft from the SW with a 14-second period, and the energy is down to 1900 to 2199. Wind is a moderate cross-off, so it’s clean, but the tide and wave quality are questionable. Honestly, it’s a pass for me. Thursday the 16th is more of the same – 7ft to 7ft SW swell, but the wind swings onshore and cross-onshore with a light breeze, messy.

Now, here’s the standout. On Friday the 17th of July, we get a winner. The swell settles to a solid 7ft from the SW with a very long 16 to 17-second period. The wind goes light offshore from the N and NE at 6 mph, glassing things right up. The combined energy is still meaty at 1942 to 2292, and the conditions are excellent for experienced surfers. This is the pick of the first week. If you’re an experienced local, this is your morning.

Saturday the 18th is a great follow-up. Swell drops to a more manageable 4ft to 5ft SW, period around 13 to 14 seconds, with a light offshore or glassy cross-off wind. Energy is down to 598 to 787, but the waves will be clean and fun for the beginner and intermediate crew. Sunday the 19th into Monday the 20th sees the swell ease right off to 1ft to 3ft, but with light offshore winds and a 20-second period on Sunday arvo. It’s small, but clean and rideable on a log.

Looking into the second week, things get more promising. On Friday the 24th of July, we get another real standout. A new SW groundswell rolls in at 8ft to 8ft with a long 17 to 18-second period. The wind is light and cross-off from the NNW and ENE at 6 mph. The energy is strong at 3502 to 4232, and the comment is “excellent for experienced surfers.” That’s a day for the confident crew only – too big for beginners. Saturday the 25th backs off to 6ft to 7ft, still decent but with a moderate cross-off breeze.

Overall, the water temp is 56°F, which is right on average for this time of year, so no surprises there. For the best on offer, circle Friday the 17th and Friday the 24th on your calendar. The first Friday is the safest bet with cleaner conditions, while the second is a longer-range promise that could be epic if it holds.

Stay safe, and keep an eye on the horizon.
Rusty

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