Swanage Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Alright, Rusty here. Let’s have a look at what Swanage has on offer over the next couple of weeks.

To be straight with you, it’s a tough stretch for surf. For the most part, we’re looking at a long run of days where you’d be better off doing something else. From now until the 28th of August, there’s hardly anything to get excited about. Small, weak, messy waves, if any at all. You’re looking at a solid week plus of flat or near-flat conditions, so don’t bother checking the gear.

Things finally start to show a bit of life on the 28th of August. Friday afternoon sees a pulse of swell roll in – around 6ft from the SW, but it’s short-period stuff at 6 seconds. That means it’s a bit disorganised, and with a fresh 19 mph offshore wind from the West, it might clean it up. The energy is moderate. Not going to set the world on fire, but it’s at least a paddle.

The standout really comes on the 29th of August. Saturday morning, we get a decent 7ft SW groundswell with an 8-second period, pushed by a nice 16 mph offshore from the WSW. The wave energy is up there, so there’s some push. Saturday afternoon gets bigger still, hitting 10ft from the SW, with the period still at 8 seconds. That’s strong energy. But that size is getting into expert territory over 8ft – not one for the groms. The westerly wind picks up to 25 mph, so it’s going to be a challenge to keep from getting blown off your board, but it will be clean. This is the best the period has to offer, and it’s a real beast.

Sunday the 30th stays solid with around 7ft waves from the WSW, but the period drops to 7-9 seconds. Still plenty of energy, and offshore winds through the morning.

Into the start of September, the 1st brings another 6ft to 8ft swell, but it stays short-period. By the 2nd, you get a slightly longer period of 10 seconds, which means better shape. Wednesday afternoon is the first time the report says it’s 'surfable' – 4ft from the WSW with moderate offshore wind.

The last call on the 4th of September Friday afternoon shows a return to 6ft, with the wind swinging offshore from the WSW and dropping to 6 mph, which will make for some clean, user-friendly conditions.

Swanage is a very sheltered spot in the bay, only really working on a SW swell. It’s rarely breaking here, so any rideable surf is a bonus. The water is running very warm, about 7 degrees Fahrenheit above normal, which is unusual. You won't need a thick suit, that’s for sure. Crowds are always possible when it does get going, especially around that big 29th.

If you’re a surfer, the 29th of August Saturday is your date, but be ready for some size and wind. The 2nd and 4th of September offer cleaner, smaller options if you just want a cruise.

Rusty.

Read more