Coastal wave refraction imaged by the Seasat Synthetic Aperture Radar is compared to simulations produced by the Virginian Sea Wave Climate Model. Seasat SAR passes 974 at Cape Hatteras, and 974 and 1404 at Long Island, were examined using OFT and ZTS methods. Results generally confirm the validity of linear wave theory in modeling of shallow-water wave refraction --roughly half the deviations between VSWCM and SAR data for direction and wavelength are within 2 degrees and 10 meters. Convergence of wave orthogonals is found in predicted caustic regions. Available bathymetric data were adequate for the analysis. Some details in the pattern of deviations near Cape Hatteras suggested current shear and tidal effects associated with the Gulf Stream
