Swanage Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Right then, let’s have a look at what’s on offer here.

To be straight with you, the next 16 days are a bit of a write-off for proper surfing at Swanage. The forecast is showing a long, quiet stretch with very little in the way of rideable waves. There’s a massive gap of no good surf from now all the way through to the middle of the third week. The first real pulse of energy doesn’t show up until Sunday the 16th of August, but it’s a tricky one.

On Sunday the 16th of August, we finally see a jump in the swell. The morning brings a 7ft wave from the WSW, with a combined swell energy of 329 (moderate). That’s a solid size, but it’s a short period swell of just 6 seconds, so it’ll be a bit fat and lack punch. The wind is cross-offshore from the NW at 12 mph, keeping the surface clean. By the afternoon, it’s pushing 7ft from the same direction, with the energy ramping up to 392 (moderate). The wind swings a little more to the WNW at 16 mph, still cross-offshore. This is big, powerful surf for a sheltered spot – over 7ft, which is really only for experienced surfers, not beginners. The water temperature is sitting at 69°, which is a massive 7° warmer than usual for this time of year – very unusual, and a real treat for the skin.

Beyond that, the rest of the period is tiny or onshore mush. Monday the 17th drops right back down to 2ft with onshore wind, and Tuesday the 18th is a pathetic 0.3ft, even with a fresh offshore breeze. It’s just not delivering.

So, if you’re desperate, keep an eye on that Sunday the 16th for a powerful, clean but short-period swell. It’s a one-day wonder in an otherwise flat outlook. The sets will be few and far between, but when they come, they’ll be solid. Don’t expect any crowds at Swanage, but it’s a rare chance for a wave.

Rusty.

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