King Tides Dates to Know

A King Tide is a non-scientific term people use to describe exceptionally high tides. They occur a few times each year when there is alignment of the Earth, moon, and sun, while the moon is at its closest point to Earth (i.e., perigee). Generally, they occur around the New Year when the Earth is also closest to the sun. During King Tides, the water height rises one to two feet higher than an average daily peak tide.

Besides King Tides, there are higher-than-normal tides that typically occur every 28 days during a new or full moon and when the Moon is at its perigee.

Daily peak tides are routine and occur once or twice every day, depending on tidal patterns. They are caused by the normal daily rotation of the Earth through the gravitational fluctuations caused by the moon.

During this year’s El Niño season, it’s very important to know the dates of the upcoming King Tides on the Southern California coastline and prepare for elevated water heights.

According to the California Coastal Commission, the California coastline will experience King Tide conditions on the following dates: November 24-26, 2026; December 23-25, 2026; and January 21-22, 2027.

For more information on King Tides, please visit the California King Tides Project site.