Map
Varazze
Today's Surf Conditions at Varazze
Spot Conditions Map
Hover over the hourly chart columns to update the wind & swell direction overlays on the map.
Today's Surf & Wind Forecast (Hourly)
Loading forecast text...
Spot Overview & Description
Tucked along the Ligurian coast, a half-hour west of Genova, Varazze has carved out a reputation as a lively surf hub that draws a mix of local regulars and travelers from across the French border. When conditions align, the lineup buzzes with energy, making it a go-to for those seeking a vibrant scene along this stretch of the Italian Riviera. The wave breaks over an uneven reef, offering both left and right peaks. The right-hander delivers a longer, more rewarding ride that can carry you all the way to the inside, while the left serves up a shorter, punchier experience—tight and intense. Varazze comes alive with southeast and southwest swells, handling waves around 1 meter (3 feet) with ease. It’s remarkably tide-tolerant, working through low, mid, and high tides, though the best barrels reveal themselves on windless or offshore days. On smaller swells, you can paddle out directly from the pier or take a short paddle to the peak. Be prepared for a crowd—this spot is popular and heavily localized by a core crew of locals. A wetsuit is a must, as the reef is shallow and sharp underfoot. Even with onshore winds, you can still find fun, makeable waves here, adding to its versatility. Varazze is best suited for intermediate surfers who are comfortable navigating a busy lineup and a rocky bottom. Come for the right-handers, stay for the atmosphere.
Best Surf Season & Climatology
Best Surf Season (November - March)
As the Mediterranean swings into its most active mode, Varazze comes alive. The Gulf of Genoa becomes a breeding ground for low-pressure systems, generating solid southerly swell that pushes directly into the Ligurian coast. Combined with frequent bursts of offshore Mistral wind from the N and NNW, this season offers the most consistent waves. Swell heights average 0.8-0.9m, with occasional pulses pushing into the 1.5-2m range, and periods can stretch beyond 10s during stronger storms. The wind is favorable 22-27% of the time, making it the prime window for clean, punchy surf at Varazze.
Fair Surf Season (April, May, September, October)
During the transition months, the surf is more hit-or-miss. April and October see average swell heights of 0.7m and ideal wind 16-19% of the time, offering decent opportunities when the synoptic setup aligns. Spring can see weakening storm tracks while autumn begins to ramp up. May and September average only 0.5m, with lighter and less frequent offshore winds. Still, a strong low-pressure system in the Tyrrhenian Sea or a clean northerly outflow can produce fun, rippable waves above the baseline.
Low Surf Season (June - August)
Summer in the Mediterranean is dominated by the Azores High extension, bringing stable weather, light onshore sea breezes from the S and SW, and a lack of swell-generating storms. Average swell heights drop to a meager 0.4m, periods under 5s, and ideal wind plummets to just 8-10%. The beach at Varazze is flat and often choppy — great for tanning, but not for surfing. Occasional weak pulses of windswell from thunderstorms may appear, but reliable waves are scarce.
Detailed Surf Information for Varazze
Detailed Surf Forecast
Access our detailed 8-day swell and wind forecast charts for Varazze with tidal graphs, period ranges, and daily forecast text summaries.
Swell & Wind Statistics
Explore historical swell consistency, wave heights, and offshore wind windows month-by-month, compiled from over 40 years of data.
Historical Surf Report
Browse the historical database archives to view past wave reports and understand spot climatology during specific years and months.
