Bathtub Beach - surf spot statistics

Bathtub Beach in the United States offers variable surf conditions throughout the year, with the best months for surfers typically occurring in the late fall and early winter. November stands out as the most favorable month, featuring a higher percentage of ground swell (17%) and wind swell (58%), combined with the lowest likelihood of no swell (25%). The mean swell size peaks at 0.8 meters, and wind conditions are relatively better than in other months, though still challenging with 89% unfavorable winds. October and December also provide decent conditions, with October showing a good balance of ground swell (16%), wind swell (52%), and a mean swell size of 0.7 meters, while December mirrors November with 19% ground swell and 0.7-meter swells. Winter months like January and February see moderate ground swell (14%) but suffer from poor wind conditions (88-90% unfavorable), though the swell size holds at 0.6 meters. March sees a slight improvement with 19% ground swell and 0.7-meter waves but remains hindered by very high bad wind percentages (91%). The spring and summer months, particularly from May through August, are the least optimal, with minimal ground swell (0-9%), high percentages of no swell (52-92%), and very poor wind conditions (94-99%). September shows a slight recovery as fall approaches, but it’s not as consistent as the late fall and early winter months. Overall, surfers will find the most reliable waves from October through December, with November being the standout month despite the persistently challenging wind conditions.

October at Bathtub Beach typically offers surfable conditions, though the waves tend to be on the smaller side with an average swell height of 0.7m and a decent period of 8.8s. The swell predominantly arrives from the ENE, which makes up the largest percentage of waves, particularly in the 0.5-1.5m range, suggesting consistent but generally soft conditions. Larger waves (1.5-2m) occur occasionally, but anything overhead is rare. The wind is often the limiting factor—only 9% of the time is it considered ideal for surfing, as breezes frequently come from the NE to ENE at moderate speeds (10-30kph), which can create onshore chop. However, lighter winds from the W or NW occasionally provide cleaner surfaces. Overall, October is a hit-or-miss month suited for beginners or longboarders on smaller days, while more experienced riders will need patience for the occasional clean, head-high pulses. Cross-checking forecasts for wind shifts is key to scoring the best sessions.