Strand (Pipe) Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Alright, Rusty here, let’s have a look at what’s coming down the line for the next couple of weeks.

We’ve got a bit of a slow start, but things build into a proper run of solid, clean surf at Strand (Pipe). The water’s a bit colder than average for the time of year, sitting at 58°, so you’ll want a decent wetsuit, no question.

The first real chance to get wet comes Friday afternoon, the 17th of July. It’s not huge, but you’ll find 4ft of SW swell with a 10-second period. The wind is glassy, and the combined energy is moderate (320). It’s clean, and should be a fun way to ease into the weekend.

Saturday morning, the 18th, drops off a bit – 3ft from the S, with cross-shore wind. Not much to write home about. The afternoon is even less inspiring, with onshore wind and 2ft of weak SW swell. Sunday the 19th is a write-off – the morning is choppy and messy, and the afternoon is marginal at best.

Monday the 20th morning redeems things. Glassy conditions again, 4ft of SSW swell at 9 seconds, and moderate energy (270). It’s not a standout, but a solid little session. The afternoon goes a bit cross-shore and drops off.

Now, Tuesday the 21st is where it starts to get interesting. The morning has 4ft of long-period groundswell from the SSW – 14 seconds! – with glassy wind and moderate energy (473). That’s a clean, lined-up morning. But the real highlight of the first week is Tuesday afternoon. 5ft, glassy, 14-second period, and strong combined energy (816). That’s a proper session, with good shape and not too big for most.

Wednesday the 22nd and Thursday the 23rd are a write-off – strong cross-shore winds and messy conditions. The swell is there, but the wind kills it.

Alright, now for the real standout. Friday the 24th of July. Morning you’ll see 8ft of SSW swell, 15-second period, and very strong energy (2207). The wind is cross-offshore and clean. Afternoon bumps up to 8ft, same direction and period, energy at 2734. This is expert territory – too big for beginners, but for experienced surfers, it’s pumping. The wind is light and clean, so expect long, powerful lines. Crowds are possible at Strand, so get in early.

Saturday the 25th morning still has a solid 6ft of SSW swell, clean cross-off wind, and strong energy (1235). Excellent for experienced surfers. The afternoon drops off to 4ft and the wind picks up, but it’s still clean.

Sunday the 26th morning is a beast – 12ft of SSE swell, but only 10 seconds, so it’s a bit wind-affected and choppy. The energy is massive (3779), but this is more of a kite-surfing setup than a paddle session. The afternoon has a very long 16-second period from the SSW but is still marginal.

Monday the 27th is back to clean. Morning has 3ft of SSW swell, 17 seconds, and very strong energy (1373). Glassy, clean, and perfect for a longboard or a mid-length. The afternoon is glassy with 5ft of SSW swell at 16 seconds – that’s a gorgeous session.

The first week of August sees the surf fade out. By Saturday the 1st, it’s down to 2ft with poor winds. The run is over. So, overall, the best on offer is definitely Friday the 24th and Monday the 27th of July. Those are the days to circle.

Rusty.

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