What are Surfline Charts?
Surfline Charts are interactive maps that show modeled ocean and atmospheric conditions. They use data from LOTUS, GFS, and NAM models to help you visualize how storms, swells, and winds develop and move toward your surf spot.
How do I access Surfline Charts?
- On the website: Go to any surf spot page and click the Charts tab, or visit https://www.surfline.com/surf-charts.
- On the app (iOS or Android): Open any surf spot page and tap the Charts tab.
What data is available on Surfline Charts?
Charts display:
- Wind Speed
- Wave Height
- Wave Energy
- Swell Period
Coming soon: Pressure/isobars, Sea Surface Temperature (SST), and Great Circles overlay will be reintroduced in a future update.
How can I move forward or backward in time on the charts?
On the website (desktop): Hover your mouse over the timeline to preview changes. Click a timestamp to lock it in place and explore the map without advancing.
On the app: Slide the timeline with your finger to move through time, or tap a timestamp to jump forward.
How do I change the appearance of the charts?
- Click or tap Settings in the top-right corner of the chart.
- Choose display options: static arrows, particle animations, or wind barbs.
- Highlight important thresholds (e.g., 10 ft+ wave heights, 14s+ periods) to follow a swell of interest around the planet beneath dominant swells.
Is there a legend for the charts?
Yes. On both website and app, the Legend tab is available on the left-hand side. The legend is a reference for the color scale used in the charts and the associated data.
Can I see conditions for a specific point on the map?
Yes. Click or tap anywhere on the map to open a tooltip. The tooltip visualizes individual swell components and wind data for that exact position, anywhere on the planet.
What’s new in the latest Surfline Charts update?
- Smoother data flow: Improved interpolation makes it easier to track swell energy as it builds and wraps into the coast.
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Clearer visuals: Updated color scales highlight differences in wind zones and swell refraction.
More control: Options to choose how wind, swell, period, and energy data are displayed (Arrow, Particle, Barb).
How can I use Surfline Charts to plan surf sessions?
- Track storms and swells. See how energy moves from a storm system across the ocean to your surf break
- Identify the best zones. Find which stretches of coast are most exposed to incoming swell and which are shadowed.
- Time your session. Use period data to know when long-period forerunners and the main swell will arrive.
- Spot local effects. Identify wind eddies, coastal bends, and sheltered zones for cleaner waves.
- See high and low energy areas. Locate regions with overlapping swells or escape excess energy when multiple storms are active.
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