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.
The Elbow surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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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
- 1.4m - 2m
- 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
Access: Deland Park, adjacent to North Pier and lighthouse. Easy beach access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at The Elbow?
The The Elbow profile does not specify a preferred tide stage. That does not mean tide has no effect: check local conditions alongside swell and wind.
What wind direction is offshore at The Elbow?
The The Elbow profile uses wind from W (270°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 225° to 315°. 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 The Elbow?
The The Elbow scoring profile favors swell from NE (0° to 90°), a swell-height range of 0.5m to 2.5m, and a reference period of 6s. 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 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?
The spot profile lists GRB as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 60 minutes. 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.