Surf forecasting: read swell, wind and tides for better sessions

Want to know when the waves will be pumpy along the African coast? Surf forecasting is the skill that lets you pick the best days, avoid sketchy conditions, and stay safe. This quick guide shows what matters, which tools to trust, and a simple checklist before you paddle out.

What to read first: swell height, period and direction

Swell height is the number everyone notices, but it’s only half the story. Swell period (measured in seconds) tells you how powerful the waves feel. Long periods—12 seconds and up—mean the swell travelled far and will have stronger, more organised waves. Short periods (under 8s) give choppy, weak waves.

Swell direction must match the beach’s exposure. A south swell lights up South Africa’s south-facing breaks in winter; a west or northwest swell works for Morocco and Senegal. If the swell is hitting at the wrong angle, expect messy or weak surf.

Wind, tide and local quirks

Wind changes everything. Offshore wind (blowing from land out to sea) makes clean, hollow faces. Onshore wind ruins shape and creates chop. Cross-shore winds are manageable but unpredictable. Check the wind forecast a few hours before your session, not just the daily average.

Tide affects breaks differently. Some spots only work on high tide, others fire at low. Know your local break: reef and point breaks often like specific tide ranges. If you’re unsure, watch a few sessions over different tides and take notes.

Local knowledge saves time. Rocks, rips and changing sandbars can turn a good forecast into a dangerous day. Ask local surfers, join a Facebook group, or follow local surf shops for spot-specific tips.

Best free forecasting tools: Windy, Magicseaweed, Windguru, and Surfline. Windy gives clear wind maps and swell models; Magicseaweed and Surfline offer surf-specific charts and buoy data. Use two sources to compare models—when they agree, trust it more.

Simple pre-surf checklist:

• Check swell height and period—aim for period 10s+ for more power.
• Confirm swell direction matches the beach.
• Look at wind—prefer offshore or light cross-off.
• Check tide and plan arrival 30–60 minutes before peak.
• Scan local reports or social feeds for hazards and crowd info.

Safety note: rip currents are common around headlands and gutters. If caught in a rip, don’t fight it—float or swim parallel to shore until you’re out. If conditions look inconsistent or stronger than your skill, wait for another day.

Start practicing reading forecasts before every trip. Over time you’ll spot patterns for your favourite breaks—when they go off, which swell angles work, and which tides they need. That’s how you turn basic forecasts into reliable surf days along Africa’s amazing coastline.