Thurso East
Thurso East is Scotland's crown jewel--a world-class right-hand reef that has hosted international competition and draws dedicated cold-water chargers from across the globe. When North Atlantic storms send clean groundswell down the Pentland Firth, this flat rock shelf transforms into mechanical walls and barrels that rival anything in Europe.
Thurso East surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NW (325°)
- Direction range
- 300° - 360°
- Size range
- 1.2m - 4.5m
- Ideal size
- 2.7m - 3.7m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- S (180°)
- Offshore range
- 135° - 225°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
Water temp
10°C
Wetsuit
5/4mm + boots
Difficulty
7/10
Crowd level
5/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Thurso East?
The Thurso East profile favors mid tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Thurso East?
The Thurso East profile uses wind from S (180°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 135° to 225°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Thurso East?
The Thurso East scoring profile favors swell from NW (300° to 360°), a swell-height range of 1.2m to 4.5m, and a reference period of 14s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Thurso East?
The main season at Thurso East is Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Apr, May, Aug. Best Sept-March with large North Atlantic swells
How do I get to Thurso East?
The spot profile lists INV as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 120 minutes.
What kind of wave is Thurso East?
Thurso East is a reef break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 7/10.
Best Season
Peak: Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Apr, May, Aug
Best Sept-March with large North Atlantic swells
Getting There
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Plan a trip around Thurso East
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