This paper describes a series of wave measurements, taken from an oceanographic tower, concerning water particle kinematics. Attention is focused on the phase relationship between surface elevation and the velocity components. Large phase shifts with respect to the expected values are found under active wave conditions, while swell behavior closely follows the linear theory. The reliability of the measurements is analyzed in detail. Possible physical reasons for the findings are indicated in the final discussion. ¿American Geophysical Union 1987