The Surf Window

Duluth Lake Superior

Minnesota, USA

Beach breakIntermediate

At the western tip of Lake Superior where Minnesota meets the lake, Duluth's lift bridge and harbor front are iconic landmarks overlooking a fresh water surf scene where NE storm swells deliver some of the Great Lakes' most powerful waves.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–E 1–2.5m (wind swell)

Wind

SW

Offshore

Tide

No tides

LowMidHigh

No tidal movement

Season

Oct–Nov for biggest autumn swells

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Rock and sand

Shape

Powerful wind swell peaks, mostly rights near the harbor

Length

30–80m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate to advanced
  • •Why: Powerful freshwater swells and very cold water require experience

Hazards

  • •Water temperature near freezing in winter, drysuit essential
  • •Rocky sections near the harbor
  • •Lake Superior is treacherous in major storms, the Edmund Fitzgerald sank here

Local Tips

  • •Park Point Beach is the most accessible surf spot, a 7-mile sand spit
  • •The lift bridge and aerial bridge are iconic, the bridge lifts for ore boats frequently
  • •The Canal Park area has restaurants and breweries for warming up

Location

Map showing the location of Duluth Lake Superior in Minnesota, USA

46.7867, -92.1005