Playa Nosara • Statistics for May

May: Monstrous South Swell and Rainforest Energy

May is when the Southern Hemisphere really starts pumping. Average swell height jumps to 1.4m, the average period peaks at 14.2 seconds, and SSW/SW swell accounts for 95% of the spectrum - an incredibly focused wave window. A significant 24.7% of that SSW energy falls in the 1.5-2m range, with another 1.8% over 2.5m, so the occasional 8ft (2.4m) day is definitely on the table.

The wind field turns light and variable as the Intertropical Convergence Zone shifts north. The NE trade is reduced to just 9%, and SE, S and SSW winds sum to roughly 25-30%, mostly under 20kph. Ideal wind occurs 45% of the time, but the more important story is the absence of strong onshore flow. This keeps the long-period swell rideable and clean, especially on the morning push. Expect powerful A-frames, long walls and occasional barrels on the better sandbars.

May's tropical weather is wetter, with 6.06mm/day of rainfall, but the air stays at 28°C and the water is a warm 29.5°C. Rain usually arrives as afternoon showers, leaving the mornings glassy for the south swell. If you want size and power as the rainy season begins, May is a fantastic month for Playa Nosara.