Good morning, surfers! Let's break down what's happening at El Porto in Manhattan Beach today.
We're looking at a solid three to four footer plus faces peeling off a northwest swell mix. These are chunky and playful waves ranging from waist to shoulder high, perfect for anyone looking to get some quality time on their board without dealing with gnarly overhead set waves.
The swell is coming from a shorter to mid-period northwest mix sitting around two point two to three point two feet at twelve seconds. Now, here's the thing about El Porto – the structure of this beachbreak does a nice job shaping up the energy, though you might see some breakup depending on how the sets line up. If you're looking for consistent peaks, you'll find them, but don't be surprised if some waves close out without perfect alignment.
Let's talk about the wind situation, because it's actually pretty decent right now. We've got light four knot offshore winds coming from the east northeast, and that's doing a solid job cleaning up what could otherwise be raw, choppy beachbreak surf. The real sweet spot is this morning into early afternoon. By mid-afternoon, expect light south onshore winds to kick in, which'll make things slightly lumpier. So if you want the best conditions, get out there early or grab a session before lunch.
The tide is currently incoming at around five point eight feet – we're in that mid-tide push. High tide rolls around early in the morning at about six feet, and it'll drop down to negative one point two feet in the early evening. El Porto is solid at pretty much any tide, but you'll get punchier, steeper faces during the mid to high tide window. Right now through the dropping tide, conditions are favorable and the waves are looking good.
Water temperature's sitting at sixty-four degrees, so grab a three-two millimeter wetsuit. The air's also sixty-four degrees, but it's gonna feel more like fifty-six with the wind chill, so throw on some sunscreen – SPF thirty minimum.
Here's what you need to know about the vibe out there. This is a consistent South Bay beachbreak, so expect some locals. The peaks spread out pretty well, which helps spread the crowd, but it can still get busy. Be smart about parking because the residential streets in this area have strict rules and you'll get ticketed quick.
Watch out for rips in the bigger northwest energy, and remember that beachbreaks come with the possibility of pounding closeouts, especially if sets get a bit more organized. Standard dynamics, nothing crazy.
If El Porto's not calling your name, you've got options. Hermosa and Manhattan Piers are running similar three to four footers, while Venice is a bit more mellow at two to three feet. El Porto's holding the biggest juice right now.
It's a quick drive from LA, so if you've got a couple hours, you can definitely squeeze in a solid session. Just check the parking situation before you head out.
Best window? This morning through early afternoon while thos
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.