California – Waves slam against rocky shorelines and surge onto beaches as powerful Pacific energy rolls in, sending spray high into the air. Along the San Francisco coast, the ocean turns restless today, drawing attention from surfers, walkers, and anyone near the water.
According to the National Weather Service, a High Surf Advisory remains in effect for the San Francisco Bay Area coastline through Friday night. Large, long-period swells are pushing dangerous surf and strong rip currents ashore. Even experienced swimmers face elevated risk, especially near jetties and exposed beaches.
In San Francisco, conditions feel calm inland, with sunshine and highs near the mid-50s. The contrast is sharp along Ocean Beach and coastal headlands, where waves can sweep unexpectedly across rocks and low-lying sand. Officials urge people to keep distance from the shoreline and never turn their back on the ocean. Plan coastal outings carefully, and keep children and pets well away from the surf.
Winds remain modest today and Friday, helping skies stay clear. Nights dip into the low-to-mid 40s, cool but typical for January. By Saturday, the advisory expires, though lingering swells may still create rough conditions for boaters and anglers. Beaches may look inviting, but currents can remain strong even after warnings drop.
Sunday continues mostly dry with highs in the mid-50s and patchy clouds. Early next week trends warmer, with temperatures climbing toward 60 and calmer marine conditions expected. Meteorologists continue monitoring Pacific systems that could bring renewed coastal impacts later.
There is a seasonal upside. By late January, San Francisco gains roughly 40 minutes of additional daylight, stretching evenings a bit longer. Heading to the coast today or this weekend? Share what you’re seeing and how the surf looks where you are.
Five-Day Outlook for San Francisco, California
- Today: Sunny inland, high surf along coast, high near 55
- Friday: Sunny, coastal hazards continue, high near 54
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, lingering swell, high near 56
- Sunday: Mostly cloudy, calmer seas, high near 56
- Monday: Sunny and milder, high near 59
