King Tides, also referred to as perigean spring tides, occur when the gravitational pull of the sun and the moon align, creating an amplified effect on the Earth’s oceans. These tides are not only higher than normal, but they also have a more pronounced impact on coastal areas. King tides typically happen a few times a year, and they offer a fascinating glimpse into the dynamic forces that shape our planet.
In Monterey and Santa Cruz County, these tidal events are most prominent during the winter months when the Earth is closer to the sun in its elliptical orbit. The gravitational forces exerted by the sun and moon are at their maximum during these times, leading to the highest high tides and lowest low tides.
The upcoming official King Tide dates for Monterey and Santa Cruz are January 11 and 12, 2024, and February 9, 2024, however, there are even more dates with these extreme tides. Extreme low tides (and high tides) will be present on the days leading up to and after the dates listed above. The best thing to do is consult a tide chart to see the exact times of the highest and lowest tides. These charts provide valuable information on when the highest tides are expected, allowing enthusiasts to plan their visits for an optimal experience.
As the king tide rolls in, coastal communities come alive with the dramatic rise and fall of the ocean. Iconic landmarks like Cannery Row in Monterey and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk become even more captivating as the waves crash against the shoreline and water levels reach their peak.
THE KING TIDES PROJECT
The California King Tides Project helps us visualize future sea level by observing the highest tides of today. You can help by taking and sharing photos of the shoreline during King Tides to create a record of changes to our coast and estuaries.
Use your smart phone or digital camera to participate in the Project by taking and uploading photos of king tides through the King Tides Photo Upload form. Start by choosing where you’ll go to take your photos and then look at the tide map to find out what time and how high your king tides will be. Take your photos as near to high tide time as you can. Your photos will be displayed on an interactive map. (If you’d like to share a video clip of king tides with us, you can upload it here. Email kingtides@coastal.ca.gov if you have questions.)
LOCAL EVENTS:
King Tide Hike at Elkhorn Slough Reserve, 1700 Elkhorn Road, Watsonville
Jan. 12, 10am-Noon; Jan. 13, 11 am-1 pm
Join an Elkhorn Slough Reserve naturalist to see a high king tide for yourself! Learn what causes high tides, talk about why king tides are so interesting, and take a hike to the Reserve’s boardwalk to witness the event firsthand. We’ll also take photos to submit to the California King Tides Project. The hike distance is approximately 1.25 miles round trip. RSVP is optional.
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