Surfing
Reading swell forecasts
Lesson objective
Swell height, period and direction explained at a high level.
AdvancedDraft 9 min
Period and power
Longer swell periods generally carry more energy. Forecast numbers are a starting point; local knowledge and lifeguard advice remain essential.
Before you go on the water
This is educational material only. Learn with a qualified instructor, check current local official safety guidance and conditions, and never paddle or surf alone as a beginner.
Key takeaways
- Period matters as much as height
- Compare forecasts with local observation
- When in doubt, don't paddle out
Glossary, sources & review status
Glossary
- Swell period
- Time in seconds between successive waves.
Source references
- Demo source placeholder — not a citationNo source assigned; permission and expert review pendingSources pending
Provenance and review
- Provenance
- Original NAMAKA placeholder
- Licence / permission
- Original demo text only; no external source permission verified
- Reviewer
- Not reviewed
- Review date
- Not reviewed yet