Long Beach

Best Surf Season (October - March)

The North Pacific comes alive during these months, with average swell heights consistently above 2 meters and long-period energy dominating. Extratropical storms rolling off the Aleutians and Gulf of Alaska fire powerful SW-WNW swells directly into Long Beach's west-facing exposure. Average wave periods hover around 12 seconds, providing excellent power and shape. Offshore wind conditions (from the east and northeast) peak during this period, with ideal wind percentages ranging from 34% to 40%. January and December are the standout months for size, often producing pumping to massive waves, while October and November offer a sweet spot of solid swell with cooler, cleaner air.

Fair Surf Season (April & September)

These transitional months see a noticeable drop in average swell height to around 1.5-1.9m, but still receive regular pulses of WSW-W swell. April benefits from a lingering winter swell pattern, though the frequency of offshore winds drops to 28%. September marks the beginning of the autumnal upswing, with swell increasing and wind consistency improving to 30%. The window for clean conditions narrows, but when high pressure sets up over the interior, east winds can deliver glassy morning sessions.

Low Surf Season (May - August)

The summer months bring the smallest swells of the year, averaging 1.2-1.5m, with wave periods still respectable around 11 seconds. However, the prevailing wind pattern shifts to a dominant WNW-NW flow, which is directly onshore for the west-facing beach. Ideal wind percentages plummet to 13-20%, meaning the majority of days are blown out. Swell energy is lower, and the typical summer swell comes from the W and WSW but is often accompanied by strong afternoon sea breezes. Micro to fun-sized waves dominate, and only early mornings offer a brief window of clean conditions.