Surf's up, wave riders! The Southern California coast is serving up a wild ride today, so buckle up and listen close.

We're looking at some serious ocean action with high rip current risks lighting up both Orange County and San Diego coastal zones. Waves are going to be pumping between 3 to 6 feet today, which means experienced surfers will be stoked but beginners need to stay alert.

Newport Beach and La Jolla are experiencing mixed swells coming from different directions - south swells around 190-210 degrees and west swells from 250-270 degrees. Translation: choppy, unpredictable conditions that will test your skills.

Water temperatures are sitting comfortable between 57 to 64 degrees - not arctic, but definitely wetsuit weather. You'll want that neoprene protection today.

Tidal movements are dramatic with significant low and high tide variations. Newport Beach will see a low of -1.4 feet in the morning, climbing to a high of 6.4 feet by late night. La Jolla follows a similar pattern with equally dramatic tidal shifts.

The big warning - rip currents are HIGH risk. These underwater rivers can drag even experienced swimmers out to sea faster than you can say "wipeout". If you're not confident in challenging ocean conditions, today is definitely a spectator sport.

No thunderstorms are expected, so at least Mother Nature is giving us that mercy. Stay smart, stay safe, and may your board be waxed and your skills sharp.

Catch you on the waves!