Rainbow Bay Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Alright, Rusty here, looking at the same stretch of sand. Let’s talk in feet and miles per hour.

The action starts Friday, July 17, and it’s a rough one. Friday morning brings a 8-foot SSE swell, period around 8 seconds, but the wind is a cross-off from the SSE at 19 mph. The water temp is 70°, about normal for the season. The wave energy is moderate (808), but the conditions are poor. The afternoon is a bit cleaner with an offshore wind, but still marginal.

Saturday, July 18, is the big one. The morning has a 12-foot SSE swell, 8-second period, with a strong offshore wind from the south at 22 mph. The wave energy is very strong (2138). It’s clean, but this is heavy, expert-only territory. The afternoon sees the swell drop to 10 feet and shift to ESE, with a longer 10-second period and even stronger offshore wind at 25 mph. The energy is very strong (3346), and paddling into these will be a grind. This is the standout for the big-wave crew.

Sunday, July 19, keeps it solid with an 12-foot SE swell, 9-second period, cross-off wind, and strong energy (2108). Clean, but not as perfect. Monday, July 20, the swell eases to 12 feet in the morning and 8 feet in the afternoon, still cross-off, with energy in the moderate to strong range (1913 and 1476). Quality is marginal.

From Tuesday, July 21, it’s a steady drop. Tuesday morning has an 8-foot ESE swell, 10-second period, cross-off wind, and moderate energy (1308). By Wednesday, July 22, we’re down to 5 feet early, with a light offshore breeze and good conditions. The energy is moderate (460). The best bet for a clean, fun wave is Wednesday morning, with a 5-foot E swell, 9-second period, and light offshore wind. It’s the only time marked “expect good surf conditions.”

After that, it fades. Thursday, July 23, has 4-foot waves, and by Friday, July 24, it’s 3 feet. The weekend of July 25-26 sees tiny waves, with glassy conditions on Sunday morning but barely a ripple. From Monday, July 27, all the way through Saturday, August 1, it’s poor. Small waves, onshore winds, low energy. The last few days show a little bump to 6 feet on August 1, but with onshore wind and poor conditions, it’s a pass.

The standout: Saturday, July 18, is the biggest, most powerful surf, but it’s for experts only. The best bet for a clean, manageable wave is Wednesday morning, July 22, with a 5-foot E swell, light offshore wind, and clean conditions.

Crowds at Rainbow Bay can be heavy on a good day, so expect some company.

Rusty.

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