7 - 11 - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (December - February)

The heart of winter brings the most consistent and quality surf to 7-11. Strong extratropical cyclones track across the North Atlantic, sending powerful, long-period swell pulses from the eastern quadrant – exactly where this beach shines. Average wave heights hold steady around 1.2m with periods climbing to 7.0-7.3s, and the wind plays ball nearly half the time, with dominant offshore flows out of the W, WNW, and NW that groom the lines to perfection. When a cold front sweeps through and the skies clear, expect punchy, rideable waves with excellent shape. This is the prime window for experienced surfers to score.

Fair Surf Season (March - May & October - November)

The shoulder months offer a mixed bag of opportunity. As winter loosens its grip in spring, swell heights ease to 0.9-1.1m and periods shorten, while autumn sees a ramp-up in energy from early-season storms. Wind patterns become more fickle – the ideal offshore flow drops to 35-45%, and southerly components creep in, often ruining the surface. However, transitional periods between weather systems can deliver unexpected gems: a late-season nor’easter in March or a tropical low in October can flip the script, producing clean, lined-up sets. Patience and a flexible schedule are key.

Low Surf Season (June - September)

Summer throttles back the energy at 7-11. Average swell heights bottom out at 0.8m and periods fall to a weak 6.7-7.2s, yielding small, choppy conditions. The dominant swell source switches to the south – while SSE and SE swells are technically in the optimal window, they often arrive with onshore winds from the SSW-SW quadrant, creating bumpy, disorganized waves. Although ideal wind percentages hover around 41-46%, the lack of real swell size and power means only the most dedicated longboarders or beginners will find fun on rare glassy mornings. It’s a time for cruising and avoiding the summer crowds that swarm the beach.

September: The Turning Point

September marks the beginning of the upward trend. Average swell height rises to 1.0m with the year’s longest average period of 8.3s, meaning more powerful groundswell. Swell direction is dominated by the eastern quadrants – ESE (20.0%), E (17.5%), and SE (17.5%) – all of which are optimal for 7-11. The wind improves, but ideal frequency is still only 41%, with SSW (10.7%) and NE (7.7%) winds often creating bumpy conditions. However, early-season cold fronts and the first nor’easters can deliver solid, long-period swell accompanied by offshore WNW winds. This month offers the best chance for quality waves outside of winter. Stay tuned to the forecast as the Atlantic wakes up.