Cerro Azul - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (May - September)

The austral winter roars to life as the South Pacific storm track intensifies, delivering consistent groundswell from the Southern Ocean. Average wave heights climb to 2.1m with periods averaging 13 seconds, providing solid, powerful surf. While the dominant swell direction is from the south-southwest and southwest – not directly in the spot's NNW-facing window – the long-period energy refracts around the headlands and wraps into the bay, offering punchy, rideable waves. Importantly, offshore winds from the south and southwest prevail over 95% of the time, keeping the faces clean and groomed. This is the prime window for surfers seeking consistent size and power at Cerro Azul.

Fair Surf Season (April & October - November)

During these transitional months, the swell heights ease slightly to 1.8-1.9m, but periods remain in the 13-second range. The same south-southwest swell trains persist, and the synoptic pattern keeps the wind blowing offshore from the southern quadrant. The surf is solid and rippable, though slightly less consistent than the peak winter months. Still, when a robust low-pressure system spins up in the Southern Ocean, expect a few days of pumping waves with clean conditions.

Low Surf Season (December - March)

The austral summer sees a relative lull in wave energy as the storm track shifts poleward. Average swell heights drop to 1.6-1.8m, but periods remain surprisingly long at 13 seconds thanks to distant southern hemisphere swells. The wind stays stubbornly offshore from the south, ensuring glassy surfaces every morning. Waves trend smaller and less powerful, making this a time for smaller boards and fun-sized, rippable waves rather than charging large sets. While not the peak season, you can still score clean, punchy waves on the right day.

March: The Upswing Begins

As autumn approaches, average swell height rises to 1.8m and the period stretches to 13.6s. The SSW direction accounts for a whopping 79% of the swell, followed by 18% from SW. This increase in long-period energy means more refraction around the headlands, so waves are more consistent. Offshore winds dominate 97% of the time, with S and SSW winds again in control (38% and 37% respectively). The surf is now solid, with shoulders that offer good shape. A great month for those who want quality without the winter crowds.