Bondi - surf spot statistics

Bondi Beach, Australia, is primarily a windswell-dominated spot with ground swells making up a smaller portion of its wave energy. The best months for surfing at Bondi are generally from March through August, when ground swell contribution increases slightly (peaking around May at 32%) and wind conditions improve compared to the summer months. During this period, mean swell sizes hover around 1.6-1.7m, providing consistent but relatively small waves suitable for intermediate surfers. Wind conditions are most favorable from April to May and July, with good wind days occurring around 34% of the time—still not ideal, but better than the summer months when onshore winds dominate (up to 76% bad wind days in January). The worst conditions are in summer (December-February), when windswell dominates (85-86%) and bad winds prevail over 75% of the time. Swell sizes remain small year-round, rarely exceeding 1.7m, making Bondi more of a beginner-friendly spot with occasional decent days for shortboarding when winds align. For the best balance of slightly cleaner conditions and marginally better ground swell, late autumn (May) and early winter (June-July) are the most reliable windows, though surfers should still expect frequent onshore winds and smaller waves by global standards.

October at Bondi delivers a mix of conditions for surfers, with an average swell height of 1.5m and a decent period of 8.8s, offering well-formed waves. The primary swell directions are S, SSE, and SE, contributing the most rideable waves in the 1-2.5m range, with S swells providing the largest proportion of quality surf (9.3% at 1-1.5m and 6.44% at 1.5-2m). ENE also plays a notable role, particularly in the 1-1.5m and 1.5-2m categories. Wind conditions are favorable 30% of the time, with lighter offshore or cross-shore winds from the W/NW quadrant being ideal. However, strong N/NE winds (10-30kph) can occasionally create choppy conditions. Overall, October provides consistent mid-sized swells with workable wind windows, making it a solid month for intermediate to advanced surfers, though patience may be needed for the best sessions when winds align.