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California • Los Angeles CountyBuoy: 46221

El Porto

Good

Wave Height

1-3

ft

Swell

~7s

W

Wind

10mph

Onshore (WSW)

Water

61°

4/3mm

Rising• High in 10h 33m

Updated: 3/9/2026, 5:31:24 PM • Data: Open-Meteo

Accurate?

Surf Graph

Clean
Fair
Choppy
Flat

Tide Forecast

Recent History

No recent history available

About El Porto

El Porto in Manhattan Beach is the South Bay's go-to surf spot, a consistent beach break that benefits from a deep submarine canyon just offshore. The canyon focuses swell energy, making El Porto noticeably bigger and more powerful than neighboring beaches. The peaks shift constantly, producing punchy, hollow waves that favor shortboarding. The crowd is heavy—South Bay rippers, body surfers, and beginners all compete for waves—but the vibe stays relatively friendly. Power plant warm water outflow occasionally brings in sea life.

FAQ

What is the water temperature at El Porto?

The current water temperature at El Porto is 61°F. A 4/3mm wetsuit with optional boots is recommended.

What is the surf like at El Porto today?

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

What time is high tide at El Porto?

Today's high tide at El Porto is at 3:45 AM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What time is low tide at El Porto?

Today's low tide at El Porto is at 8:52 PM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What are the best conditions for surfing El Porto?

El Porto works best with swells from the W, WNW, SW, NW and E, NE, ENE winds (offshore). The ideal tide is low to mid.

Is El Porto good for beginners?

El Porto is best suited for intermediate surfers who are comfortable paddling out and catching unbroken waves. Beginners may find it challenging on bigger days.

This Week's Outlook

Thursday morning's looking prime with 3-foot waves and that long 14-second period, even though you'll be dealing with some onshore texture from the west wind. Hit it around that late morning high tide at 11:43 AM when the water's pushed up and the waves have more punch.

Updated 3/9/2026, 6:04:27 PM

Spot Info

Break TypeBeach Break
BottomSand
Skill LevelIntermediate
CrowdHeavy
Best TideLow to Mid
Best SwellW, WNW, SW, NW
Best WindE, NE, ENE
ParkingFree street parking on Highland Ave, metered closer to beach

Local Tip

Bigger than surrounding beaches thanks to the offshore canyon. Morning glass-off sessions are prime.