Yakutat
Yakutat represents the northern frontier of North American surfing—a remote Alaskan community where Gulf of Alaska storms produce powerful waves that break with glaciers visible in the distance. The setting is primal: rainforest meets ocean, bears wander the beach, and the water temperature hovers just above freezing year-round. The small but dedicated local community has carved out a surf scene in this unlikely location, proving that dedicated surfers will find waves anywhere. For those seeking the ultimate adventure surf experience, Yakutat delivers waves and wilderness in equal measure.
Yakutat surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- S (180°)
- Direction range
- 150° - 220°
- Size range
- 1m - 4m
- Ideal size
- 2.3m - 3.3m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- N (0°)
- Offshore range
- 315° - 45°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 2.5m
Water temp
7°C
Wetsuit
6/5mm + boots, gloves, hood
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
1/10
Access: Fly into Yakutat. Short drive to beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Yakutat?
The Yakutat profile favors the recorded tide range, ideally between 0.5m and 2.5m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Yakutat?
The Yakutat profile uses wind from N (0°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 315° to 45°. 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 Yakutat?
The Yakutat scoring profile favors swell from S (150° to 220°), a swell-height range of 1m to 4m, 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 Yakutat?
The main season at Yakutat is Sep-Nov. A secondary window runs Aug, Dec. Fall is best. Winter too stormy. Gulf of Alaska swells.
How do I get to Yakutat?
The spot profile lists YAK as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 5 minutes. Fly into Yakutat. Short drive to beach.
What kind of wave is Yakutat?
Yakutat is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Sep-Nov
Secondary: Aug, Dec
Fall is best. Winter too stormy. Gulf of Alaska swells.