2
Raglan
New Zealand80
Firing
10°Cwater
Today's podium
Data from Open-Meteo, refreshed every 3 hours.
How the score works
Every spot gets a composite score out of 100 from wave state, wind, current, visibility and water quality. Water temperature is shown separately for comfort, safety and kit context only.
Water temperatureContext only
Shown for comfort, cold-shock awareness and wetsuit planning only. It does not affect the swim score.
Wave heightMultiplier
Calm water is ideal for distance swimming. Above 1m makes sighting difficult. Above 1.5m is dangerous for most open water swimmers.
Wind speedMultiplier
Light winds mean flat water and easier breathing. Above 20 km/h creates chop that slows you down and makes bilateral breathing harder.
VisibilityMultiplier
Clear water and good atmospheric visibility help with sighting, navigation, and safety. Fog and murky water increase risk.
Frequently asked questions
How often is this updated?
Conditions update every 3 hours from Open-Meteo weather and marine data. Water temperature is refreshed alongside the scored conditions, but it is shown for comfort, safety and kit context only.
How is the swim score calculated?
A composite score out of 100 combining wave state, wind speed, current, weather visibility and water quality. Water temperature is displayed separately for comfort, safety and wetsuit context, and does not affect the score.
Are these the same spots as the surf leaderboard?
Yes, plus a handful of spots added specifically for open water swimming (like Dover and Sandycove). The same coastal weather and marine data powers all water sports scores.
What types of swimming does this cover?
Sea swimming, open water swimming, triathlon training, swimrun, and any coastal or ocean swimming. The scoring optimises for conditions that suit distance swimming: calm water, manageable wind and current, good visibility, and clean water.
Why is my favourite spot scoring low?
The score reflects conditions right now, not a spot's reputation. Even the best venues have off days. Check the 7-day forecast on the spot detail page to find the best window this week.
Does this account for currents?
Real-time ocean current data is limited at most coastal locations. The score uses a neutral current assumption where data is missing and focuses on the conditions we can measure accurately: waves, wind, visibility and water quality.
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