Cortes Bank
Cortes Bank is surfing's most remote big wave venue—an underwater mountain rising from the seafloor 100 miles off the San Diego coast. When massive Pacific storms generate huge W-NW swells, waves break on the shallow reef at heights that rival anything on Earth: 70-100 foot faces have been documented. Getting there requires a major boat expedition and perfect weather windows. The wave breaks maybe 3 days per year. Cortes Bank represents big wave surfing at its most logistically extreme and potentially largest scale.
Cortes Bank surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- W (281°)
- Direction range
- 270° - 292°
- Size range
- 18.3m - 22.9m
- Ideal size
- 19.7m - 21.1m
- Height multiplier
- 1.08×
- Ideal period
- 20s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 45° - 135°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: Major boat expedition
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Cortes Bank?
The Cortes Bank profile favors low tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Cortes Bank?
The Cortes Bank profile uses wind from E (90°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 45° to 135°. 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 Cortes Bank?
The Cortes Bank scoring profile favors swell from W (270° to 292°), a swell-height range of 18.3m to 22.9m, and a reference period of 20s. 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 Cortes Bank?
The main season at Cortes Bank is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Oct, Apr. ~3 days/year
How do I get to Cortes Bank?
The spot profile lists SAN as a nearby airport. A boat transfer is also required. The profile estimates $2000 USD; confirm the current price and departure point with an operator. Major boat expedition
What kind of wave is Cortes Bank?
Cortes Bank is a big wave break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Oct, Apr
~3 days/year
Getting There
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