A surf forecast is a prediction of wave and weather conditions at a particular surf spot. It helps surfers determine when and where to go surfing based on factors such as wave height, swell direction, period, wind speed and direction, tides, and water temperature. Surf forecasts are typically provided by specialized websites or apps that collect and analyze data from various sources, including weather models, buoys, and local observations.
It’s worth noting that different surfers may have preferences for specific forecast providers based on their personal experiences and the accuracy of forecasts at their local surf spots. Exploring multiple forecast platforms and cross-referencing the information can help you make more informed decisions about the surf conditions.
In this article, we will show you 3 different surf forecasts websites and how to use it.
Magicseaweed/Surfline
Magicseaweed (MSW)/ Surfline, is a popular online platform that provides surf forecasts and reports for surfers and ocean enthusiasts. It offers detailed information on surf conditions, including wave height, swell direction, period, wind speed and direction, tides, and water temperature. Magicseaweed has gained a reputation for its accuracy and comprehensive data, making it a valuable resource for surfers worldwide.
Besides, Magicseaweed has live cameras in some surf spots worldwide which make it being one of the most used surf forecast website. Inside the site you have stars that will define if yes or no the surf conditions are poor/ fair to poor/ good.
Mobile Apps: Magicseaweed offers mobile applications for iOS and Android devices, allowing users to access the surf forecasts and spot reports on the go. The apps provide a user-friendly interface and often include additional features like live webcams, surf spot ratings, and community-driven content.
Community and Social Features: Magicseaweed has a strong online community where surfers can share their experiences, post photos, and engage in discussions. The platform also allows users to rate and review surf spots, contributing to the collective knowledge base.
Windguru
Windguru (windguru.cz): Windguru specializes in wind and wave forecasts, offering detailed information for surfers, kitesurfers, windsurfers, and sailors. It provides forecasts for various European surf spots and includes data on wind speed, direction, wave height, period, and other relevant parameters.
Windguru provides surf forecasts for numerous surf spots worldwide. The surf forecasts include information on wave height, swell direction, period, wind speed and direction, tides, and water temperature. The platform uses various weather models and data sources to generate these forecasts.
Wind Forecasts: In addition to surf forecasts, Windguru specializes in wind predictions. It offers detailed wind forecasts, including wind speed, direction, and gusts, which are crucial for wind-dependent water sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing. Surfing can also be affected by wind conditions, so the wind forecasts provided by Windguru can be useful for surfers as well.
Weather Information: Windguru provides comprehensive weather information such as air temperature, atmospheric pressure, cloud cover, and precipitation. This data helps users get a complete understanding of the weather conditions at their chosen surf spots.
Interactive Charts and Graphs: Windguru offers interactive charts and graphs that visually represent the forecasted surf and wind conditions over time. These visual tools allow users to analyze the predicted trends and changes in surf and wind parameters, helping them plan their surf sessions accordingly.
Customization: Windguru allows users to customize their forecasts by selecting their preferred units of measurement, time zones, and forecast display settings. This customization feature enhances the user experience and tailors the forecasts to individual preferences.
Mobile App: Windguru offers a mobile app for iOS and Android devices, providing users with convenient access to surf and wind forecasts on the go. The app includes features such as favorite spot management, real-time observations, and customizable notifications.
Surf forecast
Surf-Forecast (surf-forecast.com): Surf-Forecast is an online platform that provides surf forecasts, reports, and information for surfers around the world. It covers numerous surf spots, including those in Europe, and offers detailed predictions and data on wave conditions and weather factors that affect surfing.
Surf Forecasts: Surf-Forecast offers detailed surf forecasts, including information on wave height, swell direction, period, wind speed and direction, tides, and water temperature. Forecasts are available for various time frames, typically up to a week or more in advance. Besides, it will define the energy of the swell coming.
Spot Reports: The platform provides spot reports contributed by the Surf-Forecast community and users who share their firsthand observations and experiences at different surf spots. These reports offer valuable insights into the current surf conditions and can complement the forecast data.
Charts and Graphs: Surf-Forecast offers interactive charts and graphs that display the forecasted wave conditions, including wave heights, swell direction, and period. These visual representations allow users to analyze the forecasted surf conditions more easily.
Premium Membership: Surf-Forecast offers a premium membership option, which provides additional features such as extended forecasts, ad-free browsing, and access to additional forecast models and data sources. The premium membership offers enhanced functionality for users who require more in-depth surf forecasting information.
Mobile App: Surf-Forecast offers a mobile app for iOS and Android devices, allowing users to access surf forecasts and spot reports conveniently on their smartphones or tablets.
Advices
Waves Finder definitely advises you to combine several surf forecast websites to define if the surf conditions are the same.
If you see that the energy of the wave from surf-forecast makes sense with the size of the wave of MSW and with the period of Windguru, then you can be sure that the 3 surf forecasts are in the same page!
