Salcombe Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Alright folks, Rusty here. Let's break down what's happening in the Salcombe zone.

First off, I’m not gonna sugarcoat it – we’re looking at a quiet spell. From now all the way up to Tuesday the 16th of September, there’s basically nothing rideable. The wind’s been junk and the swell’s missing, so save your energy.

Tuesday 16th September is when the ocean finally wakes up. The morning serves up a 5ft west swell with a moderate offshore breeze from the northwest. It’s clean, and the wave energy is building (426). Not a classic, but after a dry stretch, it’s the first real option. By the afternoon, the swell pushes to 5ft, the wind stays offshore but picks up to 18 mph, and the energy climbs to 553. It’s more powerful, but that fresh breeze will keep you on your toes.

The real highlight is Friday 18th September. Morning sees a solid 6ft west swell with a long 13-second period – proper groundswell. The energy is strong at 961, with a moderate cross-off wind. That long period will give you better shaped waves and longer gaps between sets, but it can break a bit straight at a sheltered spot like Salcombe. The water temperature is a touch warmer than usual for this time of year, running at about 63°F. The afternoon gets even more juice with energy up to 1121, but the wind turns fresh and cross-off, making it a challenge for all but the most experienced.

If you’re an expert, Friday morning is your window. Beginners should steer clear once the swell is over 5ft. That long period swell means more time sitting and waiting, but the quality is worth it.

From the 19th onward, it’s a drop-off. Waves shrink below 3ft, and the wind turns onshore or cross-onshore. There’s a brief glassy moment on Tuesday the 22nd afternoon, but with a 1ft swell, it’s barely a ripple. A proper flat run for this area – just one of those stretches.

Keep Friday 18th in your sights. That’s the one.

Rusty.

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