Things You'll Need:
- Weather forecast
- Marine forecast
- Offshore buoy report
- Tide table
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Step 1
Identify what type of swell breaks the best at your favorite break. Determine if it is setup to receive a swell from a certain direction, and if there are any structures nearby that could block unwanted winds.
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Step 2
Check the local weather forecast for as far out as it is available. Pay attention to any weather systems that could generate waves that will break at your favorite break. Tropical cyclones and warm and cold fronts are examples of possible wave generating weather systems.
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Step 3
Consult your local marine forecast. It should alert you to any high seas over the next few days. Pay attention to what is generating the waves, how big they're forecasted to get and how long they're supposed to last. This will give you an idea of what days will be the best for surfing.
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Step 4
Analyze the local offshore buoy reports. When the wave size offshore starts increasing you know that the surf will also be getting bigger. Pay particular attention to the wave direction if the buoy lists that information. Obviously, you can only surf the waves if they're getting bigger, and heading towards your favorite break.
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Step 5
Check the tide table for your favorite surf break. Knowing what tide breaks best, and when that occurs will help you have an enjoyable surf session.
