Tunnels Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Alright, surfers, let’s get into the 16-day picture for Tunnels. It’s a pretty lean run for a while, but we’ve got a little window of something to work with, and a longer-range spike that’s worth keeping an eye on.

The first solid stretch of surfable waves doesn’t really kick off until Wednesday the 26th of August. We’ve got a consistent cross-off breeze from the ENE blowing through most of the period, which is a good thing – it keeps the surface clean. But the energy is just weak for days. The combined swell energy is mostly in the low-to-mid hundreds, peaking around 408 (moderate energy) on the 26th morning, but the wave comment says “poor surf conditions” or “marginal” right through. The swell is small, around 2 ft to 4 ft, coming from the SSW or S. The period is long, between 14 and 18 seconds, which means it’s a groundswell, but it’s just not packing enough punch for Tunnels, which is exposed to the SW. That long period can also make a beach break a bit too straight, but Tunnels is a reef and point setup, so it’s a better fit. Still, the quality just isn’t there for a standout.

The real nod goes to the 8th of September, Tuesday. That’s our standout. We’re looking at 5 ft to 5 ft of swell from the S, with a period of 12 seconds. That’s a solid, moderate groundswell, and the combined energy jumps to 1143 and 1250 – that’s strong wave energy. The wind is cross-off from the S, which is just about ideal for this spot, keeping it glassy. The forecast is marked as “marginal” but scores a 2 out of 10, which is the best in the whole run. It’s a week and a half out, so it’s a promising call but not solid yet. That size is still good for intermediates, but it’s not huge. The water temperature is about average for the time of year. Just be aware that the 9th and 10th drop off fast with choppier conditions and a shorter period, so the 8th is the day to pencil in.

The rest of the 16 days? After the 8th, we’re back to small, low-energy surf and some rain and storm risk on the 7th, with onshore wind making it messy. The 9th and 10th have a bit more size but shorter period and a fresh to strong breeze, so it’s not going to be pretty.

So, bottom line: Wait for the 8th of September. That’s the best shot we’ve got. Otherwise, it’s a quiet spell.

Rusty

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