This book explains how waves are formed, provides information on forecasting surf conditions, and provides insider information into surf culture. It will help beginners get a clue on how things work in the water and provide those of us with experience the ability to travel outside of familiar territory to explore new spots. Ideal conditions are listed for every break in North America: ideal swell direction, wind direction, swell size, type of break (beach, reef, river mouth, point break, etc), and more. Each chapter(Southern California has a detailed summary of surf culture, the seasons and hazards) which is fascinating. Each spot is identified with best tide, best wind, type of ocean bottom, type of surfspot with a paragraph or so about what to expect. (Dangerous locals-Beware, Shark attack spot). This book could possibly save your life is you use it wisely. it coverS the entire North American continent from Washington state to Texas to Nova Scotia to Florida. Most well known spots are in this book, secret spots no. Hundreds of great full color photos of some epic waves. Buy this book and then start driving to a new surf break! (Paperback)