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Delaware • Sussex CountyBuoy: 44009

Bethany Beach

Junky

Wave Height

1-3

ft

Swell

~5s

ESE

Wind

22mph

Offshore (NW)

Water

51°

5/4mm + boots

Falling• Low in 5h 1m

Updated: 5/3/2026, 5:30:21 AM • Data: Open-Meteo

Accurate?

Surf Graph

Clean
Fair
Choppy
Flat

Tide Forecast

Today
L7:05pm0.4ft
Tomorrow
H1:29am4.6ft
L7:57am0.3ft
H1:53pm3.4ft
L7:38pm0.6ft
Tue, May 5
H2:06am4.5ft
L8:38am0.5ft
H2:32pm3.3ft
L8:13pm0.7ft
Wed, May 6
H2:45am4.3ft
L9:22am0.7ft

Recent History

No recent history available

About Bethany Beach

Bethany Beach is a mellow, sandbar-driven break that favors small to moderate swell. The waves tend to be soft and forgiving, making it approachable for beginners and cruisy sessions. While rarely powerful, clean wind conditions can turn Bethany into a playful, longboard-friendly spot with consistent peaks.

FAQ

What is the water temperature at Bethany Beach?

The current water temperature at Bethany Beach is 51°F. A 5/4mm wetsuit with boots and gloves is recommended.

What is the surf like at Bethany Beach today?

Bethany Beach currently has waves around 1-3ft. Conditions change throughout the day, so check back for updated forecasts.

What time is high tide at Bethany Beach?

Today's high tide at Bethany Beach is at 8:54 PM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What time is low tide at Bethany Beach?

Today's low tide at Bethany Beach is at 3:19 AM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What are the best conditions for surfing Bethany Beach?

Bethany Beach works best with swells from the E, ENE, NE and W, NW winds (offshore). The ideal tide is mid to high.

Is Bethany Beach good for beginners?

Yes, Bethany Beach is suitable for beginners, especially on smaller days. It's always a good idea to check conditions before paddling out and consider taking a lesson if you're new to surfing.

This Week's Outlook

Thursday morning looks like your best bet with clean 3-footers and light offshore-ish winds around the low tide. Monday afternoon could also work if you don't mind smaller surf - lighter winds should keep it cleaner than the rest of the week.

Updated 5/3/2026, 6:00:32 AM

Spot Info

Break TypeBeach Break
BottomSand
Skill LevelAll Levels
CrowdModerate
Best TideMid to High
Best SwellE, ENE, NE
Best WindW, NW
ParkingBeach lots with seasonal fees

Local Tip

Check the sandbars after storms - they shift frequently. Early morning glass-off is common.