Delaware • Sussex CountyBuoy: 44009

Bethany Beach

Junky

Wave Height

1-2

ft

Swell

~6s

ESE

Wind

13mph

Sideshore (N)

Water

76°

Boardshorts

Rising• High in 1h 8m

Updated: 9/18/2026, 5:30:18 PM • Data: Open-Meteo

Accurate?

Surf Graph

Clean
Fair
Choppy
Flat

Tide Forecast

Today
H5:52am3.1ft
L11:45am1.4ft
H6:24pm4.1ft
Tomorrow
L1:11am1.4ft
H7:01am3.1ft
L12:48pm1.5ft
H7:29pm4.1ft
Mon, Sep 21
L2:11am1.3ft
H8:07am3.2ft
L1:54pm1.4ft
H8:27pm4.3ft
Tue, Sep 22
L3:00am1.1ft

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 76°F. Boardshorts or a rashguard should be comfortable.

What is the surf like at Bethany Beach today?

Bethany Beach currently has waves around 1-2ft. 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 1:52 AM 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 8:07 PM 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

Wednesday morning looks like your best bet with 2ft waves, longer 5 second periods, and light onshore wind that'll groom things up. The tide's working in your favor too since you'll have that LOW at 9:18 AM to work with some shape.

Updated 9/14/2026, 6:02:08 PM

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.