The Surf Window

Pistol River

Oregon, USA

Beach breakAdvanced

A scenic beachbreak at the mouth of Pistol River, strong offshores funnel down the river valley and create some of the cleanest conditions on the south coast, powerful waves.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size4-7ft

Wind

S

Offshore

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

September–March

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

A-frame

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Steep takeoff, fast walls

Length

60–130m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate–Advanced
  • •Why: The strong offshores can make the waves hollow, fast takes and power required.

Hazards

  • •River mouth can create unusual currents
  • •Very strong offshore wind
  • •Shallow water near river mouth

Local Tips

  • •The consistent strong offshores make this one of the cleanest beachbreaks on the coast.
  • •Check river flow conditions, high water can affect wave shape.

Location

Map showing the location of Pistol River in Oregon, USA

42.3733, -124.3933