Duranbah - surf spot statistics

Duranbah in Australia is a surf spot with consistently rideable conditions year-round, but the best months for quality waves and favorable winds fall between May and August. During this period, the percentage of ground swell increases significantly, peaking at 30% in July, while wind swells decrease, providing cleaner and more powerful waves. The average swell size remains steady around 1.5m to 1.7m, offering solid but manageable waves for experienced surfers. Wind conditions also improve in these months, with the highest likelihood of good winds in June and July (36% favorable). Outside this window, from September to April, the spot becomes more wind-affected with a higher proportion of wind swells (up to 88% in November) and less ideal wind conditions (over 80% bad winds in summer months). Swell size slightly drops from September onward, averaging 1.4m, making the waves less consistent and powerful. If you’re looking for the best balance of swell quality and wind, late autumn to mid-winter (May to July) is the prime time, while summer months (December to February) offer smaller, more chopped-up conditions with frequent onshore winds.

May at Duranbah offers decent surf conditions with an average swell height of 1.6m and a solid period of 9.4s, providing good energy for rideable waves. The swell is predominantly from the eastern quadrants (E, ESE, SE, SSE), with the most consistent waves in the 1-2.5m range. Around 33% of the time, winds are favorable for surfing—typically light to moderate offshore or cross-offshore (W, WNW, NW), while onshore winds (E, SE, S) can occasionally degrade conditions. The best days come when ENE or E swells combine with lighter W/NW winds, offering clean, well-shaped waves. Expect some variability, but there’s a reasonable chance of scoring quality sessions, especially mid-month when swell direction and wind align. Advanced surfers will find the most opportunities, though smaller days (1-1.5m) can work for intermediates. Keep an eye on wind forecasts, as stronger S/SE winds can chop things up.