Waimea Rivermouth Surf Forecast and Surf Report

G’day, Rusty here. Let’s break down what’s on the cards for Waimea Rivermouth over the next couple of weeks.

It starts off pretty flat and weak. Monday afternoon has a 6ft east swell, but it’s short period at 7 seconds and the energy is moderate (447). Winds are cross-off from the east at 12 mph, so it’s clean, but the wave comment calls it marginal – not worth suiting up for.

Tuesday and Wednesday stay small, with swell dropping to 2-2ft and periods around 12-13 seconds. Energy drops right off (175, 140, 259, 53). Winds go glassy on Wednesday afternoon, which is nice, but the waves are just too tiny. Thursday morning (20th August) shows a 2ft south-west swell at a very long 18 seconds, energy at 273, with glassy east winds. That long period groundswell will be super clean, but it’s barely a ripple. Water temp is around 80°, which is about average for this time of year.

Then there’s a gap. Friday through Saturday afternoon (21st-22nd August) stays small and ordinary, with swell under 2ft and energy below 300.

Now, the action starts Sunday morning (23rd August). The east swell builds to 4-5ft, period 7 seconds, energy hitting 405. Winds are cross-off and light – clean, but still short period. Not a standout yet.

The real standout is Thursday 28th August afternoon. Swell hits 7ft from the east with a period of 9 seconds, combined energy is 1000 (strong). Winds are light cross-off from the east at 6 mph. The wave comment says “excellent surf conditions for experienced surfers.” At 7ft, this is for experts only – beginners stay on the beach. The direction is east, which is a bit off the optimum south, but it still delivers. This is easily the best of the whole forecast.

Friday 29th August keeps the swell at 7ft from the east, period 8 seconds, energy in the 700-800 range. Winds stay light, glassy on the afternoon. Very good surf for those who can handle it.

After that, it fades fast. Sunday 30th August onward drops to 2-3ft, energy below 200, and stays small through Tuesday 1st September. Ordinary conditions.

So, first week is a wash. The standout is Thursday 28th August afternoon – big, clean, and powerful. Friday 29th is also solid. If you’re experienced, that’s your window. The rest is just small and average. Crowds at Waimea Rivermouth are sometimes an issue, but on those big days, it’ll be just the crew who can handle it.

Rusty.

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