Warmer Days, Fresh Swells & Thinner Rubber
As the seasons shift and winter loosens its grip, spring surfing in Kent is finally upon us. It’s time to shake off the cold, wax up the boards, and drop down the wetsuit thickness as we welcome longer days, milder temperatures, and some fun, short-lived swells.
Spring is a transitional season, bringing a mix of conditions that can deliver some great albeit fleeting waves along Kent’s coastline. While the powerful winter swells may be behind us, this time of year typically sees solid short-period pulses from both the northeast and northwest, creating rideable waves at key breaks like Joss Bay, Botany Bay, and Viking Bay.
What to Expect from Kent’s Spring Swells
Spring in Kent often delivers short but sharp swell windows, generated by fast-moving low-pressure systems across the North Sea. Northeast swells can light up Thanet’s prime spots, bringing punchy waves when the wind plays ball. Meanwhile, northwest swells less frequent but equally welcome can sneak into some of Kent’s more sheltered nooks, offering clean, fun waves before the wind shifts.
With longer daylight hours and rising air and water temperatures, spring also marks the time when surfers start shedding their winter armour. The thick 5/4mm wetsuits of January and February give way to 4/3mm suits, and on the warmer days, even a 3/2mm might do the trick late in Spring. Boots, gloves, and hoods can start making their exit, though an early-season easterly wind can still bring a chill.
The Stoke of Spring Surfing
There’s something special about spring sessions, the water begins to warm, the energy shifts, and the line up starts buzzing with excitement for the season ahead. It’s the time of year when locals shake off the winter blues, travellers start to return, and those first golden evening surfs become a reality.
With the promise of fun, punchy swells and milder conditions, spring is the perfect time to get back in the rhythm, refine your surf skills, and make the most of Kent’s waves before the summer doldrums set in.
So, dust off your board, ditch the thick rubber, and get ready to embrace the best of Kent’s spring surfing. Keep an eye on the latest forecasts, and we’ll see you out in the lineup!