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California • Orange CountyBuoy: 46223

Salt Creek

Junky

Wave Height

2-4

ft

Swell

~3s

S

Wind

5mph

Offshore (E)

Water

61°

4/3mm

Falling• Low in 4h 53m

Updated: 3/8/2026, 5:39:32 PM • Data: Open-Meteo

Accurate?

Surf Graph

Clean
Fair
Choppy
Flat

Tide Forecast

Recent History

No recent history available

About Salt Creek

Salt Creek in Dana Point is a powerful, consistent point break that produces some of Orange County's best surf. The main peak breaks off the rocky point, offering fast, hollow rights and shorter lefts. Inside, the wave mellows out over sand, making the inside section more forgiving. The Ritz-Carlton overlooks the break, giving it a somewhat upscale setting. The spot handles size well and can produce excellent surf in the 4-8 foot range on solid south or west swells.

FAQ

What is the water temperature at Salt Creek?

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

What is the surf like at Salt Creek today?

Salt Creek currently has waves around 2-4ft. Conditions change throughout the day, so check back for updated forecasts.

What time is high tide at Salt Creek?

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

What time is low tide at Salt Creek?

Today's low tide at Salt Creek is at 8:46 PM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What are the best conditions for surfing Salt Creek?

Salt Creek works best with swells from the S, SW, W, SSW and E, NE, N winds (offshore). The ideal tide is low to mid.

Is Salt Creek good for beginners?

Salt Creek 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 primo with 3-4ft waves, long 15-second periods, and light cross-onshore winds hitting around the high tide at 11:44. That combo of size, period, and tide timing should serve up some proper walls at Salt Creek.

Updated 3/9/2026, 6:20:24 AM

Spot Info

Break TypePoint Break
BottomRock and Sand
Skill LevelIntermediate to Advanced
CrowdHeavy
Best TideLow to Mid
Best SwellS, SW, W, SSW
Best WindE, NE, N
ParkingDay-use parking lot ($1/hour)

Local Tip

The main peak is localized—work the inside sections when it's crowded. Solid on south swells.