The Elbow
The Elbow is the epicenter of Sheboygan's surf scene and the reason this Wisconsin town earned the nickname "Malibu of the Midwest." Named for the angled pier that connects to the historic lighthouse, this spot features a slabby granite reef that produces surprisingly punchy waves when conditions align. Sheboygan juts out into Lake Michigan, exposing it to winds from nearly every direction, which means more surfable days than almost anywhere else on the lake. The dedicated local crew surfs year-round, breaking out 6mm suits and icicle beards in winter.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NE (45°)
- Direction range
- 0° - 90°
- Size range
- 0.5m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.9m
- Height multiplier
- 0.95×
- Ideal period
- 6s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- W (270°)
- Offshore range
- 225° - 315°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
Water temp
10°C
Wetsuit
5/4mm + boots
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
5/10
👥 Summer Break (Jun 15 – Aug 25) — expect extra crowds
Access: Deland Park, adjacent to North Pier and lighthouse. Easy beach access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at The Elbow?
The Elbow handles all stages of the tide, so time your session around the wind instead. The live chart above shows the next few days.
What wind direction is offshore at The Elbow?
Offshore wind at The Elbow blows from the W (270°). Anything in the 225° to 315° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at The Elbow?
The Elbow wants NE swell (0° to 90°) between 0.5m and 2.5m, with a period of 6s or more for quality waves.
When is the best time of year to surf The Elbow?
The main season at The Elbow is Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr. September through April. NE and SW winds both work.
How do I get to The Elbow?
Fly into GRB, then allow about 60 minutes by road. Deland Park, adjacent to North Pier and lighthouse. Easy beach access.
What kind of wave is The Elbow?
The Elbow is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
September through April. NE and SW winds both work.