Arenillas - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (October - March)

The North Atlantic winter pattern delivers consistent, powerful swell from the NW quadrant. However, at Arenillas, the ideal window aligns when the swell swings more northerly (N to NNE) and is accompanied by offshore S-SSW winds. These months see the highest average wave heights (1.5m-2.0m) and longest periods (11-14s), providing a solid platform for good surf. The percentage of ideal wind conditions peaks at 38-42%, meaning that a significant portion of the days offer clean, offshore conditions. The combination of long-period groundswell and favorable wind makes this the prime time for Arenillas.

Fair Surf Season (April & September)

Shoulder months see a transition. April still has moderate swell (1.4m avg, 10.9s period) but ideal wind drops to 31%. September sees similar stats (1.2m, 10.4s, 32%). The swell direction remains predominantly from the NW, but the wind patterns become more variable, with fewer consistent offshore windows. You can still score good waves, but you'll need to be selective.

Low Surf Season (May - August)

The summer months bring smaller, weaker swell (0.9-1.1m, periods 8-10s). The dominant NW swell is still present but much less organized, often mixed with short-period windswell. Ideal wind percentages drop to 22-30%, meaning onshore winds (from N-NW) frequently ruin the waves. The surf is generally small and mushy, with only rare opportunities for decent waves when a southerly breeze cleans up the leftover swell. This is a time for groveling and longboard sessions at best.

October: The Season Kicks into Gear

October sees a dramatic uptick in surf quality at Arenillas. Average swell height jumps to 1.5m and period to 11.3s. The NW (50.6%) and WNW (18.1%) are still the dominant directions, but the percentage of ideal wind skyrockets to 42% – the highest of the year alongside January. This is when the North Atlantic storm track intensifies, producing consistent, powerful swell. The increased occurrence of high-pressure systems over Europe and the Mediterranean also helps funnel more offshore S-SSW winds to the coast. When a proper NW swell rolls in with those winds, Arenillas can handle it, offering well-shaped, hollow peaks. The water is still warm from summer, making it an ideal month for long sessions.