What is SurfChecks and how to read the surf
We built SurfChecks to answer every surfer's simplest question: 'Where is it good to surf right now?'. Without confusing charts or complicated jargon, we bring together 24/7 live beach cameras, real wave and set sizes, wave power, wind quality, and safe tide windows for both complete beginners and experienced locals.
HOW TO READ THE OCEAN IN 4 SIMPLE STEPS
See the Waves Before You Drive
Live beach cameras show you in real time whether waves are lining up, whether the wind is grooming or chopping the surface, and how crowded the lineup is.
Why a 1m wave can be gentle or heavy
Two 1-meter days can feel completely different. Short intervals (6–8s) and low power (<250 kJ) mean gentle waves great for beginners. Long intervals (13–17s) and high power (>800 kJ) mean heavy ocean groundswell with much larger sets.
Know the Best Time to Paddle Out & Exit
Many beaches and rocky points only work properly at specific tide heights. We show clearly whether the tide is in the sweet spot right now, whether low tide exposes rocks, or whether high tide makes exiting harder.
Offshore (Clean) vs. Onshore (Choppy) Wind
When wind blows from land out to sea (offshore) or is calm (glassy), wave faces stay clean and smooth. When wind blows from the sea onto the beach (onshore), it chops up the surf. Every spot page tells you clearly how the wind is affecting the waves.
Beach, School & Camera Suggestions
SurfChecks is built by surfers who love the ocean. If you run a local surf school, want to suggest a new beach camera, or spot a local detail we can improve, drop us a message.