Cannon Beach - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (October - March)

The North Pacific roars to life during autumn and winter, with frequent extratropical storms tracking across the Gulf of Alaska. This fuels consistent, long-period W and WNW swell that marches straight into the west-facing coast of Cannon Beach. Average surf heights hover between 1.8m and 2.5m, with periods routinely exceeding 12s, delivering powerful, clean lines. Offshore flow from the E to SE quadrant is most reliable from October through March, with ideal wind statistics peaking near 35%. When these ingredients align, the wave quality is world-class – think pumping, firing conditions with plenty of open faces for long rides. The Aleutian Low intensifies, and each passing cold front sends a fresh pulse of swell, making this the undisputed peak season.

Fair Surf Season (April, May, September)

As winter transitions into spring and fall into winter, the storm track becomes more erratic, leading to a mix of smaller, less consistent swells. April and May see average heights drop to 1.5–1.8m, with periods around 10.6–11.4s – still fun and rippable but lacking the raw power of winter. September marks an early uptick in swell activity as the Pacific reawakens, with heights averaging 1.4m and periods climbing back to 10.6s. Ideal wind percentages are moderate (19–25%), so clean conditions are possible but require careful timing. These months offer a compromise: fewer all-day sessions, but when a low pressure deepens or a high sets up over the interior, you can score excellent waves with smaller crowds. It’s a transitional window that rewards those who watch the charts closely.

Low Surf Season (June - August)

Summer settles in, and the North Pacific swell machine largely shuts down. Average wave heights shrink to a modest 1.1–1.3m, with periods dipping below 10s – often small, fun-sized or even micro on the smallest days. The dominant swell direction shifts more northwesterly, which is still okay, but the real issue is wind. A persistent thermal low over the continent drives strong onshore flow from the NW and NNW, with ideal offshore wind percentages falling to a dismal 7–12%. Most days are choppy and messy from a side-offshore or onshore component. While a rogue long-period swell can still sneak in, the overall quality is inconsistent. For the dedicated surfer, dawn patrol offers the best shot at glassy conditions before the sea breeze kicks up. This is strictly a low season where you’ll be groveling on a log or waiting for the next autumn storm.

September: Autumn Stirrings

September is a turning point. Average swell height rises to 1.4m, period to 10.6s – a notable step up. The swell direction is dominated by WNW (47.1%) and W (32.7%), with heights starting to push into the 1-2m range more frequently. Ideal wind percentages jump to 25%, a significant improvement. While onshore winds from the NNW (17.5%) and NW (8.9%) still occur, offshore flow from the NE through SE begins to reappear (NE+E+ESE+SE total ~13%). This sets up more frequent clean sessions. As the first autumn lows develop in the Gulf of Alaska, long-period pulses can deliver powerful, long period waves. September is a month of transition – you'll still face small days, but the potential for excellent surf grows steadily. It's the beginning of the climb back toward prime season.