Acapulco seasonal overview
Acapulco offers consistent surf year-round, with ground swell dominating almost every month and minimal wind swell interference. The best conditions for surfers typically occur from November through April, when the swell is clean, the wind is more favorable, and the wave size remains manageable yet fun. During these months, ground swell reliability is near 100%, wind conditions are good 60-63% of the time, and the average swell size ranges from 0.9m to 1.3m, making it ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. The peak swell size arrives from May to September, averaging 1.5m-1.6m, but the trade-off is slightly less favorable wind conditions, with onshore winds becoming more frequent (bad winds 47-52% of the time). However, even in these months, the surf remains ridable, especially for those comfortable with slightly choppier conditions. The worst wind conditions coincide with the biggest swell months (June-September), but with ground swell still prevalent, there are plenty of surfable days. For the most balanced experience—consistent waves, cleaner conditions, and lighter crowds—target the winter and early spring months (December to March), when the combination of good winds and moderate swell size creates optimal surfing conditions.
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Conditions at Acapulco in May
May in Acapulco offers favorable surfing conditions with a consistent swell averaging 1.5m and a solid period of 15.1s, producing well-spaced, powerful waves. The dominant swell direction comes from the SSW, accounting for a significant portion of waves in the 1-2.5m range, ensuring clean, rideable waves with good shape and energy. Smaller contributions from the S and SW directions add variety, though larger swells above 2.5m are rare. Wind conditions are surf-friendly 53% of the time, with lighter offshore or cross-shore breezes (predominantly from the NW to NNE) helping maintain wave quality. However, stronger onshore winds from the WSW and SW occasionally blow, particularly in the 10-30kph range, which may affect surface conditions. Overall, May delivers reliable waves for intermediate to advanced surfers, with a mix of mid-sized swells and generally cooperative winds, though mornings often provide the cleanest sessions before afternoon breezes pick up.
Average Spot conditions at Acapulco in May
Swell history for May
Wind history for May
Swell quality
Analyze the groundswell consistency at Acapulco during May. Based on historical data, there is a % probability of groundswell occurring this month. The chart below provides a detailed breakdown of the average wave height distribution, offering deep insights into the swell quality and surf potential you can expect at Acapulco for your next trip in May.
Ground swell
Ground swell by size
Wind conditions
Evaluate the wind and swell alignment at Acapulco for May. Our analysis shows that favorable offshore or side-shore winds coincide with surfable swell approximately % of the time. The accompanying graph illustrates the average size distribution of waves during these optimal wind windows at Acapulco.
