Bridges - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (December - February)

The heart of winter brings the most consistent swell to Bridges, with average wave heights hovering around 0.8m and periods stretching to 7.0s. While the dominant swell direction remains from the ESE, a slight uptick in NNW and N energy during these months adds a touch of variety. The trade-off is a lower percentage of offshore wind (31-37%), as strong high-pressure systems over the continent occasionally drive gusty ENE winds. Still, when a cold front clears the coast and winds clock around to the north or east, you can score punchy, rideable waves with decent shape. It's the season to check the forecast diligently and pounce on the windows of clean conditions.

Fair Surf Season (March - May & November)

Spring and late fall serve as transitional periods, offering a mixed bag. March through May sees a gradual decline in swell height from 0.7m to 0.6m and periods dropping to 6.3s, but the trade-off is a marked improvement in offshore wind frequency, peaking at 56% in May. The swell continues to be dominated by ESE and SE directions, delivering mostly small, groveling waves. November mirrors March with average 0.7m swell and 6.5s period, but ideal wind drops to 38%. These months are best for beginners or those wanting to log easy sessions on clean, small waves – think longboard and foamie territory.

Low Surf Season (June - October)

Summer and early autumn bring the doldrums to Bridges. Average surf height sinks to 0.6-0.7m and periods bottom out at 6.0-6.3s, with a near-total reliance on southeast swell. The silver lining is that June offers the highest percentage of offshore wind (63%), making for glassy, micro conditions ideal for groveling. July through October sees ideal wind frequency drop to 42-46%, while the swell remains small and weak. The ocean often looks like a lake, with only the faintest southeast pulses barely breaking. This is the season for waist-high slop and closeouts – unless a rare tropical system angles in from the south, but even then the west-facing orientation rarely lines up. Grab the groveler and practice your turns on the tiny bumps.

December: Winter Arrives, But Quality Elusive

December brings the winter average up to 0.7m with a period of 6.8s, yet the wave quality remains limited. ESE swell continues to dominate at 60.5%, with E (18.9%) and SE (8.6%) also contributing. The silver lining is a slight increase in NNW (3.5%) and NNE (1.6%) swells, which deliver slightly better shape when they hit the beach. Offshore wind is at its lowest frequency of the year – just 31% – with ENE winds at a hefty 46.9%, often in the 20-30 kph range, creating bumpy surface conditions. When a high-pressure system settles in and the wind goes light from the north, the small NNW swell can produce surprisingly fun waves. But those days are rare. Most of the time, it's small, short-period, and wind-affected.