What Are King Tides?

King Tides is not a scientific term. It was first used in Australia and New Zealand, and is now used America to describe the very high tides that occur several times a year.  This year, the king tides occurred from January 10-12.  Educators along coastal regions offered walks and talks to educate the public.  This is NOT the time to go swimming.  You boogie boarders, wait a few days and wait until the surf returns to normal.

The king tides occur when the Earth, Moon and Sun are aligned at perigee and perihelion, resulting in the largest tidal range seen over the course of a year. So, tides are enhanced when the Earth is closest to the Sun around January 2 of each year. They are reduced when it is furthest from the Sun, around July 2.

I was in Solana Beach on Sunday to observe the king tides.  Boy, was I surprised.  I was expecting huge waves, but that is not what I saw. 
The waves were normal, maybe 3-4 feet, but the tide came all the up to the cliffs.  The king tides are high tides, and have nothing
to do with the size of the waves.  Lots of surfers were out on Sunday morning to enjoy the surf and the long ride in.













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