The Wave
When it works, El Cap needs a strong W to WSW swell with periods around or under ~15s, light N-NE offshore breezes, and low-to-mid tide for the best shape.
Expect cramped lineups when it fires.
Surf GuideCalifornia
El Capitan
El Capitan is a rare, high-reward right-hand cobblestone point off the El Capitan State Beach campground that lights up into long, hollow barrels on big W-WSW winter swells. Get the latest surfing conditions, forecast, and tide details for El Capitan in California.
Break TypeReef Break
Skill LevelAll levels
LocationCalifornia, US
Forecast
- Waves 2-3 ft
- Period 9 s
- Wind SW 5 kt
As of:
Spot Guide
Lineup Insights
Lineup Guide
The takeoff sits over barnacle-coated boulders and sand-sucking pockets-misjudged drops often mean rock contact and short paddles back.
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