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What is a Tide Chart?

Beginner's Guide: How to Read Tide Charts and Graphs

A tide chart is a vital tool for anyone heading to the ocean, predicting the rise and fall of sea levels caused by gravitational forces. For surfers, understanding these cycles is the difference between a world-class session and a long walk on a dry reef. Charts typically display the date, time, and height of High Tide and Low Tide in feet (ft). In the U.S., these heights are measured against MLLW (Mean Lower Low Water), which serves as the "zero" reference point on your graph.

The "Mid-Tide" Sweet Spot: Why Moving Water Matters

Diagram showing the 'Push' and 'Drain' - the best time to surf during a moving tide.

In the surfing world, the most consistent waves often happen during the "Mid-Tide"—the window between the extremes of high and low. As the tide comes in (the Push) or goes out (the Drain), the movement of water creates energy and flow. This "moving water" helps the waves break more predictably and with more power compared to the stagnant periods of peak high or low tide.

How Tide Levels Shape Your Waves

Illustration comparing how High, Mid, and Low tides affect wave shapes. High = Fat/Slow, Mid = Balanced, Low = Hollow/Close-outs.

The tide level dictates the depth of the water over the sandbar or reef. This depth is the primary factor in how a wave "breaks":

High Tide: Often makes waves "Fat" or "Mushy." The water is too deep for the wave to break properly, causing it to lose power or break right on the shore (shorebreak).
Low Tide: Can make waves "Hollow" or "Pockety." However, if the water is too shallow, waves may "Close-out," meaning the entire line breaks at once, making it unrideable.

Choosing the Right Tide for Your Skill Level

Timing your session is key to safety and fun. Use this guide to plan your next paddle out based on your experience:

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes tides?

Tides are primarily caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun on Earth's oceans as the planet rotates.

What is "Slack Water"?

Slack water is a short period when the tide is turning (from high to low or vice versa) and there is little to no horizontal movement in the water. Waves often lose their "shape" during this time.

What does a "Negative Tide" mean?

A negative tide (e.g., -1.0 ft) occurs when the water level drops below the average lower low water (MLLW) line. This often reveals tide pools or rocks that are usually submerged.

Do seasons affect the tide levels in the U.S.?

Yes. While gravitational cycles are constant, seasonal weather patterns, storm surges, and "King Tides" (exceptionally high tides occurring a few times a year) can cause significantly higher water levels than predicted.