Surfers and beach lovers, gather round for your West Central Florida surf report! The waves are whispering a tale of calm waters and changing conditions today.

Let's start with our northern zones from Cedar Key to Port Richey - expect a mellow scene with surf heights hugging the 1-foot mark. Temperatures will hover in the lower 60s with northeast winds around 10 mph. Clouds will dominate the skyline with a sprinkle of potential showers and a slight thunderstorm chance. Water temperatures are sitting comfortably in the mid 60s, perfect for those brave wetsuit warriors.

Heading south to Clearwater, Saint Pete, and Bradenton beaches, things get a bit more interesting. While today starts tranquil, tonight and Thursday promise some maritime drama. Winds will shift from south to southwest and then northwest, bringing increased surf action. Expect 1 to 2-foot waves and a rising rip current risk that'll climb from low to high by Thursday.

For our southern beach friends around Manasota Key, Sanibel, and Fort Myers, you're in for a sunnier treat. Mostly sunny skies today will give way to a mostly cloudy evening with a slight shower chance. Water temperatures are a delightful mid 70s, and daytime highs will dance in the upper 70s.

The big story across all zones? A significant wind shift Thursday, with north winds around 15 mph creating heightened rip current conditions. Surfers and swimmers, stay alert and check local conditions before heading out.

UV index is high, so slather on that sunscreen, rock your favorite shades, and enjoy the coastal vibes responsibly!

Surfers and beach lovers, grab your sunscreen and get ready for a wave of weather wisdom! The Gulf Coast is serving up a slice of paradise today with mostly sunny skies and temperatures climbing into the mid-60s to mid-70s depending on your stretch of coastline.

For our friends north of Tampa - from Cedar Key to Crystal River - expect a tranquil day with gentle northeast winds hovering around 10 miles per hour. The surf's looking mellow with waves barely kissing the one-foot mark. Water temps are chillin in the upper 60s, perfect for a quick dip if you're feeling adventurous.

Heading south towards St. Pete and Clearwater, you'll see slightly more action with surf heights reaching 1 to 2 feet. The UV index is moderate, so slather on that protection and soak up some vitamin D safely. Water temps are creeping into the comfortable 70-degree range.

As we slide further southwest to the Charlotte and Lee County beaches, things get a bit more interesting. Today's rip current risk is moderate, so water warriors should stay alert. Winds will dance from northeast to northwest, and those picture-perfect mostly sunny skies will keep things gorgeous.

Tonight, clouds will start rolling in, bringing a slight chance of evening showers and potential thunderstorms. Wednesday promises more excitement with increased thunderstorm potential and partly sunny conditions. Temperatures will climb nicely into the upper 70s, making it a prime day for beach shenanigans.

Pro tip for all you surf enthusiasts: while the rip current risk is generally low, always keep an eye out near jetties, piers, and reefs where sneaky currents can develop. Stay safe, stay stoked, and enjoy our beautiful Gulf Coast!

Surf's up, beach lovers! Let's dive into today's coastal conditions along West Central and Southwest Florida.

Pack your sunscreen and hydration because we're looking at a high UV day with bright sunny skies and temperatures ranging from the low 60s to upper 70s depending on your stretch of coastline.

Starting north near Cedar Key and Yankeetown, expect calm waters with surf heights barely kissing one foot. Winds will be blowing steady from the northeast at 10 to 15 miles per hour, keeping things crisp and cool.

Heading south to Clearwater and Saint Pete beaches, we've got a serious rip current warning in effect through this evening. While the surf looks modest at one to two feet, ocean conditions demand respect. Swimmers should exercise extreme caution near jetties, piers, and coastal structures.

For our friends around Fort Myers and Sanibel, you're also under a high rip current risk today. Water temperatures are sitting comfortably in the lower 70s, but those northeast winds will keep things interesting. Expect partly sunny skies transitioning to full sunshine by mid-morning.

Tonight, rip current risks will transition from high to moderate across most beaches. Temperatures will drop into the mid-40s up north and around 60 closer to the Gulf islands.

Tuesday looks fantastic with continued northeast breezes, mostly sunny skies, and gradually calming waters. Beach goers can look forward to comfortable conditions with low rip current risks.

Bottom line: Stay alert, respect the ocean, and enjoy this beautiful Florida coastal day!

Surf's up beach lovers! Let's dive into today's coastal conditions along West Central and Southwest Florida.

Saturday kicks off with postcard-perfect weather. Expect mostly sunny skies and temperatures climbing into the lower 70s to low 80s depending on your coastal stretch. Water temperatures are deliciously warm ranging from 70 to upper 70s - practically paradise.

Winds will start gentle from the southeast around 10 mph, shifting southwest by afternoon. Surf height remains calm at just one foot or less, making it ideal for casual beach lounging and paddle activities.

But here's the heads up - Sunday brings some dramatic changes. Rip current risk escalates from low to high, so ocean enthusiasts need to stay alert. Expect southwest winds cranking up to 15-20 mph and slightly choppy 1-2 foot waves. Cloud cover increases with a low chance of scattered showers and potential thunderstorms.

UV index remains high, so sunscreen is your best friend. Tides will cycle predictably throughout the day with morning lows and afternoon highs hitting around midday.

For Cedar Key, Saint Petersburg, Venice, and Fort Myers Beach regions, the marine forecast suggests a mix of sunny breaks and increasing cloud cover. Temperatures will hover in the upper 60s to low 80s.

Pro tip: While conditions look mellow, always respect the ocean and watch for local variations near jetties, piers, and reef areas where rip currents can unexpectedly develop.

Stay safe, stay salty, and enjoy your weekend coastal adventure!

Catch the wave of the latest coastal forecast, surf enthusiasts! We're looking at a dynamic weekend along West Central and Southwest Florida's stunning shorelines.

Today's conditions are postcard perfect - mostly sunny skies with temperatures dancing in the lower 70s to lower 80s depending on your exact beach spot. Winds will start easterly around 10 mph, then swing southwest by afternoon. Water temperatures are deliciously warm in the low to upper 70s, making for comfortable ocean adventures.

But surfers and beach lovers, listen up - Sunday's forecast is shifting gears. The rip current risk is jumping from low to HIGH, so extra caution is key. Expect southwest winds cranking up to 15-20 mph, potentially choppy surf with 1 to 2 foot waves, and a slight chance of thunderstorms rolling through.

UV index is blazing high today, so sunscreen is your best friend. Water temperatures hover around a pleasant 70 degrees, perfect for swimming or paddling.

Tide watchers can track some interesting changes - morning lows will hit around 8-10 AM, with afternoon high tides rolling in between 1-4 PM across different coastal zones from Cedar Key to Fort Myers Beach.

Beach radar suggests partly to mostly cloudy conditions developing overnight, with temperatures cooling into the mid to upper 60s. Sunday brings a mix of sun and potential shower activity.

Bottom line: Today's a beach day paradise. Sunday? Stay weather aware and respect those rip currents. Stay safe, stay stoked!

Hey there, wave riders and beach lovers! This is your surf and beach report for West Central and Southwest Florida, coming in hot from the National Weather Service Tampa Bay.

Calling all beach enthusiasts from Cedar Key to Fort Myers Beach - we've got a gorgeous day lined up for you! Today's looking like a postcard-perfect Florida morning with mostly sunny skies and temperatures climbing to a sweet spot in the upper 60s to lower 80s depending on your coastal location.

Let's talk water conditions. For our friends up in the Levy, Citrus, and Hernando county beaches, you're looking at super calm waters with surf heights barely reaching a foot. Rip current risk? Low and lazy. Perfect for those who want a mellow beach day.

Moving south to Pinellas and Sarasota beaches, things get slightly more interesting. You'll see surf heights between 1-2 feet with a moderate rip current risk. So beach-goers, keep those eyes open and stay alert near jetties and piers.

Water temperatures are sitting pretty in the low to upper 70s - basically bath water paradise. UV index is high, so sunscreen is your best friend today. Northeast winds will be dancing around 10-15 mph, creating that classic gentle coastal breeze.

As we roll into tonight, expect partly to mostly cloudy skies with temperatures dipping into the lower to upper 60s. Winds will continue their gentle northeast to east flow.

Saturday's forecast? More beach-perfect conditions with sunny to mostly sunny skies, temperatures holding steady in the 70s to low 80s, and winds shifting to a light southeast direction.

Surf's up - but gently! Catch those rays, stay safe, and enjoy another stunning day in paradise.

Surf's up, beach lovers! We're diving into today's coastal forecast for West Central and Southwest Florida, and things are looking pretty sweet.

Let's start with our northern zones around Cedar Key and Yankeetown. Expect a partly sunny day with a light 1-foot surf and moderate rip current risks. Temperatures will hover around a comfortable 70 degrees, with south winds cruising at 15 miles per hour. Just a heads up - there's a slight chance of showers and maybe a rogue thunderstorm, so keep those weather apps handy.

Heading south to Clearwater, Saint Pete, and Siesta Key beaches, we've got a high rip current alert with 1 to 2-foot waves. The UV index is cranking high, so sunscreen is your best friend today. Temperatures will spike around 80 degrees with mostly sunny skies and those same south winds keeping things breezy.

Down in the Charlotte and Lee County beaches like Sanibel and Fort Myers, we're looking at a moderate rip current situation. Water temperatures are sitting pretty in the upper 70s, and you'll enjoy mostly sunny conditions with temperatures in the lower 80s. South winds will be dancing around 10 to 15 miles per hour.

Tonight, expect things to cool down with partly cloudy skies and some fog rolling in. Temperatures will drop to the mid-50s up north and around 70 in the southern zones.

Friday brings more of that gorgeous Florida weather - partly to mostly sunny, with northeast winds picking up. Rip current risks remain moderate, so stay alert and swim smart.

Catch those waves, stay safe, and enjoy the sunshine!

Surfers and beach lovers, get ready for a coastal adventure along West Central and Southwest Florida! Today's looking like a mellow day with waves barely reaching beyond a foot high. The water's sitting pretty in the upper 60s to lower 70s depending on where you plant your toes in the sand.

For our friends in the Levy, Citrus, and Hernando County beaches, expect a partly sunny morning with some lingering fog patches. Temperatures will cruise around 70 degrees with south winds dancing at 10 to 15 miles per hour. Cedar Key and friends can catch low tide around 8 in the morning and a sweet high tide in the afternoon.

Heading south to Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Sarasota beaches, you're in for a treat with mostly sunny skies and temperatures climbing to the upper 70s. The UV index is cranked up high, so sunscreen is your best friend today. Rip current risk is moderate, so stay alert near those jetties and piers.

As we roll into Thursday, the vibe changes slightly. Levy County can expect mostly cloudy skies with showers likely, while our southern beaches like Clearwater and Venice will remain mostly sunny. Winds will keep their southerly flow around 10 to 15 miles per hour.

The Charlotte and Lee County beaches are scoring the best weather - sunny today with temperatures nudging 80 degrees. Water temperatures are deliciously warm in the lower 70s, perfect for a midwinter beach day.

Tides are looking predictable across all regions, with morning and afternoon cycles right on schedule. Just remember, even with low rip current risks, always respect the ocean and swim smart.

Catch those waves, soak up that Florida sunshine, and enjoy your beach day!

Surf's up, beach lovers! Let's dive into today's coastal conditions along West Central and Southwest Florida.

For our friends around Cedar Key, Yankeetown, and the Crystal River area, we're looking at a mellow morning with calm waters and minimal wave action. Expect surf heights hovering around a foot or less - perfect for paddleboarding or just soaking up some rays. Water temperatures are sitting pretty at a mild 68 degrees, and you'll be greeted by mostly sunny skies with a touch of patchy fog to keep things interesting.

Winds will start easterly around 10 mph, then shift south in the afternoon, creating a gentle breeze for beachgoers. High temperatures will climb into the upper 60s, making for a comfortable coastal day.

Heading south to Clearwater, Saint Pete, and Sarasota beaches, you're in for a treat! Water temperatures have warmed up to a delightful 75 degrees, with abundant sunshine and temperatures reaching the upper 70s. While today offers a low rip current risk, Wednesday will see a bump to moderate risk with surf heights increasing to 1-2 feet.

For those chilling around Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel, get ready for a sun-soaked paradise. Water temperatures are a warm 78 degrees, and you'll enjoy sunny skies with temperatures climbing into the upper 70s today and lower 80s tomorrow. Southeast winds will start gentle and build to 10-15 mph.

Across all regions, tides will provide natural rhythm to your beach day, with morning lows and afternoon highs perfect for beach activities.

Remember, even with low rip current risks, always stay alert near structures like piers and jetties. Stay safe, stay sunny, and enjoy Florida's gorgeous coastline!

Surf's up, beach lovers! Grab your sunscreen and get ready for a chilly yet beautiful day along West Central and Southwest Florida's coastline.

North winds are cranking at 10 to 15 mph, bringing some crisp winter vibes to our beaches. From Cedar Key to Sanibel Island, we're looking at mostly sunny skies with temperatures ranging from the upper 50s to lower 70s - perfect for bundling up and enjoying the scenery.

Surfers and swimmers, listen up - rip current conditions are keeping things interesting. The northern beaches are sporting a moderate rip current risk, so stay alert and watch those shoreline conditions. Water temperatures are cool but not freezing, hovering between 66 and 75 degrees.

Beach forecast highlights include stunning sunrise at 7:20 AM and a picturesque sunset around 5:40 PM. UV index is moderate, so don't forget those sunglasses and light protection. While thunderstorms are taking a holiday, the waves are staying mellow with surf heights mostly under two feet.

Tide watchers can track some interesting water movements today. Cedar Key and Fort Myers Beach will see low tides mid-morning, while Saint Petersburg and Venice Inlet have their own rhythmic dance of highs and lows throughout the day.

Tonight promises mostly clear skies with temperatures dipping into the mid to upper 40s. Winds will continue their northerly march, keeping things cool and crisp.

Sunday looks equally beautiful - sunny, slightly warmer, and with gradually decreasing rip current risks. Whether you're a beach walker, surfer, or just looking to soak in some winter Florida sunshine, this weekend's coastline is calling your name.

Stay safe, stay warm, and enjoy the Gulf Coast's winter wonderland!