How do I read the surf forecast for The Wedge?

Our forecast shows wave height in feet, swell period in seconds (longer = more powerful), swell direction, wind speed/direction, and tide times. Look for longer periods (10+ seconds) and offshore winds for the best conditions.

California • Orange County • Buoy: 46222

The Wedge

Q: What is the surf like at The Wedge today?

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

Good

Wave Height

2-4

Swell

~12s

Wind

4mph

Sideshore (NW)

Water

73°

Boardshorts

Rising• High in 6h 6m

Updated: 10/13/2026, 5:44:12 PM • Data: Open-Meteo

Accurate?

Surf Graph

Clean

Fair

Choppy

Flat

Tide Forecast

Today

H7:17am3.5ft

L11:34am2.5ft

H6:05pm5.4ft

Tomorrow

L1:40am0.5ft

H8:27am3.2ft

L11:45am2.8ft

H6:36pm5.1ft

Fri, Oct 16

L2:43am0.8ft

H7:18pm4.7ft

Recent History

No recent history available

About The Wedge

The Wedge is one of the most dangerous and spectacular waves in California, a mutant shorebreak at the tip of the Newport Beach jetty. Waves bounce off the rock jetty and combine with incoming swells to create massive, unpredictable wedging peaks that can double in size within feet. Bodysurfers and bodyboarders dominate the lineup—stand-up surfing is often banned when it gets big. This is not a wave to take lightly; broken necks and spinal injuries have happened here. But on the right day, the spectacle is unforgettable.

FAQ

What is the water temperature at The Wedge?

The current water temperature at The Wedge is 73°F. Boardshorts or a rashguard should be comfortable.

What is the surf like at The Wedge today?

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

What time is high tide at The Wedge?

Today's high tide at The Wedge is at 3:17 AM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What time is low tide at The Wedge?

Today's low tide at The Wedge 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 The Wedge?

The Wedge works best with swells from the S, SSE, SSW and N, NW, W winds (offshore). The ideal tide is mid to high.

Is The Wedge good for beginners?

The Wedge is recommended for experienced surfers only. The waves here can be powerful and conditions challenging. Beginners should look for more forgiving spots nearby.

This Week's Outlook

Friday morning looks cleanest with 3ft waves, solid 14s period, and light 6mph offshore winds coming straight from the north. The swell's consistent and wind's holding up all week, but Fri AM gives you that rare glassy setup before the 24mph blow hits in the afternoon.

Updated 10/13/2026, 6:28:02 PM

Spot Info

Break TypeBeach Break

BottomSand

Skill LevelExpert

CrowdHeavy (spectators and surfers)

Best TideMid to High

Best SwellS, SSE, SSW

Best WindN, NW, W

ParkingStreet parking on Balboa Peninsula, limited

Local Tip

This wave can seriously hurt you. South swells are when it goes off. Watch from the beach first.