Bunkers - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (October - March)

The North Atlantic winter machine kicks into high gear from October through March, delivering the most consistent and powerful surf to Bunkers. Average swell heights range from 1.8m to 2.1m, with periods often in the 7-8 second range – punchy, rideable, and occasionally reaching longer period windows when strong extratropical storms march east. The west-northwest facing beach lines up perfectly with the dominant W to NW swell trains, and when high pressure sets up over Scandinavia, offshore winds from the E through SSE quadrant glass off the faces. Ideal wind percentages hover near 20%, making this the go-to window for quality sessions. The NAO index often amplifies the storm track, so keep an eye on negative phases for blocking highs that may steer depressions further south.

Fair Surf Season (April & September)

These transitional months offer a mixed bag. In April, the ocean begins to quiet down – average swell drops to 1.2m and periods shorten to 6.6s, but the wind still cooperates about 19% of the time. Swell directions remain favorable with WNW and NW dominating, though the energy is more inconsistent. September sees a ramp-up as autumn approaches, with average heights of 1.5m and periods of 6.6s, plus a similar 19% favorable wind window. Both months can produce clean, fun-sized waves when a low pressure system brushes the region, but don't count on long-period groundswells just yet.

Low Surf Season (May - August)

Summer months are the leanest for consistent surf at Bunkers. Average swell heights plateau around 1.1–1.2m and periods dip to 5.8–6.1s, resulting in weaker, wind-swell dominated conditions. Although the WNW and NW directions still contribute the bulk of the swell, the energy is often too small for much more than groveling. Offshore wind frequencies drop to 12-16%, with onshore westerlies prevailing during this period. While the occasional summer cold front can provide a brief pulse of 1.5m+ waves, the overall signal is quiet. This is the time to focus on log sessions or travel elsewhere for your fix.

September: Autumn Awakening

September marks a distinct shift towards better surf. Average swell height climbs to 1.5m, and the average period lengthens to 6.6s. The swell directions are well-distributed, with WNW (14.0%) and NW (11.8%) leading, but W (10.5%) and WSW (10.3%) also contribute. Wave heights in the 1–2m range become more common, with a fair share of 2–2.5m waves. Offshore wind frequency returns to 19%, and winds from the S and SSE quadrant prevail, offering excellent grooming for the WNW swell. The fall storm track starts to ramp up, especially as the NAO trends positive. Bunkers often sees its first solid groundswell of the season in late September – a great time to start watching the long-range models.