How to Read a Surf Forecast: A Beginner’s Guide for St Ives Bay
Planning a surf trip to Cornwall? Whether you’re booking your first surf lesson or renting a board for the weekend, understanding the surf forecast can make or break your session.
At Shore Surf School in St Ives Bay, we believe learning how to read the ocean is just as important as standing up on your board. This guide will help you decode the forecast, choose the best time to surf, and have more fun in the water—especially if you're heading to Gwithian, Hayle, or Godrevy.
1. Wave Height (ft)
Wave height tells you how big the breaking waves will be. If you’re just starting out, look for waves between 1–3 feet. These are perfect for practicing pop-ups and getting comfortable on the board.
Local tip: St Ives Bay has varied beach shapes and sandbanks, which can double the wave size in some spots. Always ask a local or check the beach before paddling out.
2. Swell Period (seconds)
The swell period is the time between each wave. The longer the interval, the more powerful the swell.
- 10–16 seconds: Long-period swell = more powerful, clean waves
- Under 8 seconds: Short-period swell = smaller, wind-driven waves
For beginner’s in St Ives Bay, a swell period of 10–12 seconds usually means manageable, rolling surf that’s great for learning.
3. Swell Direction
Swell direction tells you where the waves are coming from. For St Ives Bay:
- Best directions: West and northwest
- Less ideal: South and southeast, as these are blocked by surrounding headlands
4. Wind Conditions
Wind can make or ruin a surf session.
- Offshore wind (from the east in St Ives Bay): Keeps waves smooth and clean
- Onshore wind: Blows into the beach and creates messy, choppy conditions
Light offshore mornings are often the best time to surf in Cornwall.
5. Tides
Tide plays a huge role in wave shape and safety. At most beaches in St Ives Bay, mid to high tide offers the best conditions for beginners.
- Low tide the waves can be steeper and more suited to intermediate/advanced surfing, still plenty of whitewater for beginners, this is also the perfect tide for bodyboarding.
Our instructors will teach you how each beach behaves on different tides.
Our Favourite Forecast Tools
Want to check the surf before heading out? Try these free tools:
- Windy.com – Great for visualising wind and swell direction
- Surfline – Clean layout and webcam access for most Cornwall spots and beyond
Want Local Knowledge You Can Trust?
Forecasts are helpful—but nothing beats local experience. Our qualified surf instructors are in the water every day, tracking the tide, wind, and swell. Book a lesson and we’ll teach you how to read the ocean like a local.
Use code MAYWAVES10 for 10% off all surf lessons this month.
