Boulevard seasonal overview
Best Surf Season (July - October)
During these months, the synoptic pattern shifts, bringing a marked increase in offshore wind frequencies from the west and southwest. While average swell heights dip to a modest 0.7-1.1m, the wave periods remain solid in the 9-10 second range, offering clean, well-ordered lines when the wind aligns. The trade wind inversion weakens, allowing more frequent passages of light offshore breezes, especially from the WSW and WNW. This is the window where Boulevard can actually offer fun, rippable waves, though you'll need to pick your days carefully as the swell direction is still predominantly from the east. It's a classic 'quality over quantity' scenario - smaller but cleaner waves that reward patience and a sharp eye on the forecast.
Fair Surf Season (May - June & November)
These transitional months see a mix of conditions. The offshore wind window expands slightly in May and June (14-27% ideal) but the swell is often smaller and weaker, with heights averaging 0.7-0.9m and periods around 8.6-9.0s. November sees a significant uptick in swell size (average 1.5m) and period (9.9s), but the offshore wind frequency drops to 14% as the northeast monsoon begins to strengthen. During this season, you might score a few decent sessions when a west swell coincides with a light offshore breeze, but consistency is low. It's a gamble - either small and clean or bigger and messy.
Low Surf Season (December - April)
The heart of the northeast monsoon dominates this period. The trade winds howl from the NE and ENE, blowing directly onshore at Boulevard, which faces east. Swell heights are at their largest (1.2-1.8m) and periods are decent (9.2-10s), but the relentless onshore wind chops up the surface and destroys any hope of a clean face. Ideal offshore wind from the west is virtually non-existent (2-7% of the time). The waves are powerful and have good size, but they are nearly always messy and difficult to surf. Only a rare cold front or low-pressure system swinging through the South China Sea can briefly flip the wind offshore, offering a fleeting moment of quality amidst the chaos. For most, this is a time to look elsewhere or enjoy the raw power from the beach.
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Conditions at Boulevard in May
May: A Glimmer of Offshore Potential
May sees a significant shift in the wind regime. The trade winds weaken dramatically, and the wind direction becomes much more variable. Crucially, the frequency of offshore wind from the west and southwest jumps to 14%. This is a big improvement. However, the swell also takes a dip. Average wave height drops to 0.9m and period to 9.0s. Swell is still largely from the ENE (60%) and E (31%), but with smaller heights - mostly in the 0.5-1m range. This means you get small, wind-swell waves that can clean up nicely when the offshore breeze kicks in. The surf becomes 'fun-sized' and potentially rippable on a longboard or groveler. May is the beginning of the 'shoulder season' where patience can reward you with a clean, small wave session.
Average Spot conditions at Boulevard in May
Swell history for May
Wind history for May
Swell quality
Analyze the groundswell consistency at Boulevard 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 Boulevard for your next trip in May.
Ground swell
Ground swell by size
Wind conditions
Evaluate the wind and swell alignment at Boulevard 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 Boulevard.
