Backyards - surf spot statistics

Backyards in the United States is a high-quality surf spot that benefits from consistent ground swell, particularly during the winter months. The best conditions for surfing occur from November through February, when ground swell dominates (76-91% of the time) with mean swell sizes ranging from 2.0m to 2.4m. These months offer the most powerful and cleanest waves, though wind conditions are less favorable, with bad winds prevailing 71-74% of the time. The early winter months (December and January) stand out with the largest swells and highest ground swell influence, making them prime for experienced surfers. Spring (March-April) and fall (October) provide a transition period, with decreasing but still decent ground swell (58-79%) and slightly improved wind conditions compared to winter. Summer (May-September) is the least consistent, with wind swell taking over (64-87%) and significantly smaller waves (1.2-1.4m). While summer sees marginal improvements in wind conditions (20-32% good winds), the wave quality drops considerably. For the most powerful and reliable surf, winter is the clear peak season, but fall and early spring can still deliver good sessions with slightly better wind luck.

In September, Backyards offers decent surf conditions with an average swell height of 1.3m and a solid period of 10.0s, indicating consistent, well-formed waves. The dominant swell directions are NNE to NE and NNW, contributing to 75% of the waves in the 1–2.5m range, with NNW swells being the most powerful (17.12% at 1–1.5m and 5.87% at 1.5–2m). Smaller, weaker waves occasionally come from the west, but the best quality is from the northern quadrants. Wind conditions are less favorable, with only 32% of the time being ideal (typically light offshore or sideshore from the west or northwest). ENE winds are problematic, often blowing at 20–40kph (35% of the time), creating choppy or blown-out conditions. For surfers, the best sessions will be during NNW swells paired with lighter WNW or NW winds—expect shoulder-high to slightly overhead waves with good shape when conditions align. However, wind interference is a frequent challenge, so timing around early mornings or wind shifts is key.