East Coast & Caribbean Surf Forecast

Our charts are built from NOAA's FNMOC ocean buoy readings and weather satellites, surf forecasts predict what a surf report will look like, helping surfers, boaters and divers choose the best times and spots for surfing along the east coast. 

Understanding Surf Forecasts

• Swell Analysis:
• Height: Indicates wave size, essential for choosing surfable waves. Larger swells generally mean bigger waves.
• Period: Affects wave power. Longer periods (10-20 seconds) suggest more powerful waves, ideal for surfing.
• Direction: Determines which beaches receive bigger waves. Beaches directly facing the swell direction benefit from larger waves.
• Wind Conditions:
• Speed and Direction: Crucial for wave formation. Offshore winds are preferred as they contribute to wave quality.
• Tidal Influences:
• Moon Phases and Tides: Play a significant role in surf conditions. Full or new moons can lead to higher tides, affecting when and where to surf.

East Coat Surf Seasons:

• Summer (June-August): Ideal for surfers in the southern states like North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida due to milder Atlantic storm swells and more manageable beach breaks. This season offers the best conditions for beginners and intermediate surfers looking to enjoy longer daylight hours and warmer waters.
• Fall (September-November): Characterized by the arrival of Nor’easterner systems in the North Atlantic, fall brings consistent offshore winds and colder fronts, particularly benefiting New England surfers. This season is known for its ability to produce some of the most reliable and quality waves, making it a favorite for experienced surfers.
• Winter (December-April): A challenging season that separates the dedicated from the fair-weather surfers. The northern states boast the best waves during these months, attributed to the wild Atlantic storm swells. Despite the cold, winter offers the opportunity for surfers to experience some of the most exhilarating rides of the year.
• Spring (March-May): Marks a transition with warm, offshore winds beginning to blow, making spots in Florida particularly appealing. This season is a great time for surfers looking to catch good waves without the winter chill, wrapping up the surfing year with relatively consistent conditions before the cycle begins anew ¹.

FAQs

Q: What type of wind conditions are ideal for surfing on the East Coast?

A: Solid hurricane surf can send really large swell up the East Coast from Florida all the way up to New England.  Along with the swell is usually some weather, but the surf can be really fun for those who are more experienced.

The most preferred wind conditions for surfing on the East Coast are light westerly winds, specifically at speeds of 10 knots or lower. These winds tend to create optimal conditions for surfers. Winds from other directions can cause the ocean to become messy and choppy, making it difficult to surf, especially if the winds are strong.

References

1 - https://thesurfatlas.com/surfing-in-the-usa/surfing-on-the-east-coast/