Salmon Creek Surf Forecast and Surf Report

G’day, Rusty here.

Alright, let’s be straight with you about Salmon Creek. The next week and a half is a write-off. We’re looking at a solid 10-day stretch of poor surf conditions starting Thursday, July 23rd, right through to the end of the month. The wind is howling out of the WNW, blowing straight onshore at 12-22 mph, and the swell is a jumbled mix of short-period, weak energy. The wave comment cards are all reading “poor surf conditions” – it’s just messy, blown-out slop. For a break that’s very consistent and exposed to the swell, it’s a cruel tease. The water temp is sitting at 57°F, which is about normal for the time of year, but you won’t be wanting to get in for the waves anyway.

We finally get a glimpse of hope on Monday morning, August 3rd. The swell picks up to 8ft out of the NW with a period of 10 seconds, and the wind swings light from the west at 6 mph. The wave energy is cranking with a combined energy of 2125 (strong to very strong wave energy). It’s still a bit cross-onshore, and the wave comment is “marginal,” but it’s the first sign of life. That afternoon, the swell drops to 7ft and the wind turns offshore, but the energy (883) is more moderate. It’s not a standout, but we’re getting warmer.

Now, Tuesday the 4th of August. That’s the one to circle. Tuesday morning, we’ve got a clean 7ft NW swell with a period of 11 seconds, light offshore winds from the south at 6 mph, and the wave comment says “excellent surf conditions for experienced surfers.” The combined energy is 1064 (strong). This is a proper groundswell with a solid period, and at 7ft, it’s a bit hefty for beginners – you’ll want some experience under your belt. The offshore wind will keep it glassy. The crowd profile here says “sometimes,” so expect a few locals out, but it shouldn’t be a zoo. The swell direction (NW) is a solid match for Salmon Creek’s optimum from the WSW – it’s going to wrap in nicely.

Wednesday the 5th and Thursday the 6th of August offer clean, smaller leftovers in the 4ft to 6ft range with light cross-offshore winds, but the energy drops off each day. They’re okay sessions, but nothing that’ll get your heart racing like that Tuesday morning.

So, here’s the bottom line: the first 10 days are a total bust. Don’t even bother. The standout is Tuesday morning, August 4th. That’s your best bet: 7ft of clean NW groundswell, light offshore wind, and strong energy. It’s a solid window for the experienced crew.

Stay salty,
Rusty

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