CatchWindow fishing intelligence

Santa Monica, CA Daily Water Report — August 26, 2026

Santa Monica's waters are making a splash today with a strong recommendation for surfers and boaters alike. Surfing scores an impressive 8.8 out of 10, thanks to wave heights around 0.94 meters and a steady swell from the south. If you're looking to carve some waves, the morning hours post-sunrise at 06:24 are likely your best bet before the wind picks up in the afternoon, reaching gusts of 15.4 knots by 18:00. Boaters will find today's conditions appealing, with an 8.1 out of 10 score. Light winds from the WSW at 3 knots and a calm ocean current at 0.6 m/s make for smooth sailing, especially in the early afternoon when the tides are lower. The marine surface temperature is a comfortable 22.9°C, slightly warmer than average, adding to the pleasant boating experience. For anglers, the fishing score remains steady at 6.7 out of 10. While solunar periods suggest some activity late morning and late evening, the high chlorophyll levels indicate a bloom condition, which might affect clarity. Consider targeting the solunar major period from 10:31 to 12:31 for your best chance. Divers and kayakers can enjoy moderate conditions, with scores of 7.2 out of 10 for both. Visibility is decent at 12.2 km, but the high chlorophyll could impact underwater clarity. Morning dives might offer the best experience before the afternoon wind increases. As we look ahead, expect similar wave conditions tomorrow, with a slight dip in temperatures. The weekend sees a potential rise in wave heights, perfect for those looking for a bit more thrill in the surf. So, grab your board and head to the shore; today's surf is not to be missed!