When in the tide cycle do you get the best waves?

Question

When can someone usually expect to get the best waves at the beach? I've got some friends saying its right at high tide and some who say that when it's half tide on the way up to high tide. Any ideas? Thanks.

Answer 1

This depends on the beach, how far you are from the equator, the moon cycle and many other variables. Usually incoming tides will help the waves grow and outgoing tides take energy away from the waves, but depending on the contours of the ocean floor of where you are this could be the opposite. Look for swell reports on local news stations to help you along.