Surf forecastStatisticsHistorical report

Getxo seasonal overview

Best Surf Season (October - March)

The North Atlantic swings into full production mode from October through March, delivering a consistent barrage of WNW to NW groundswells to Getxo's west-northwest-facing coastline. Average wave heights hover between 1.5m and 2.1m with long-period energy (11–12.8s) that translates into powerful, well-structured lines. Offshore wind percentages peak at 44–50%, driven by a dominant SSW to S flow that cleans up the swell beautifully. This is prime time for pumping, firing surf – a classic Basque winter.

Fair Surf Season (April & September)

April and September serve as transitional windows with average swell heights of 1.2–1.4m and periods around 10–11s. The swell quality remains respectable – mostly fun, rippable waves – though the size and power dip compared to peak winter. Wind statistics remain favorable, with 41–44% offshore conditions, mainly from the SSW and S quadrants. The crowds thin out, and clean long-period pulses still sneak in between summer lulls.

Low Surf Season (May - August)

From May through August, the North Atlantic storm track retreats northward, resulting in smaller, shorter-period swells. Average heights drop to 1.0–1.2m with periods around 8.8–9.9s – often choppy and grovelly. While NW groundswell still dominates, the energy is less powerful. Offshore wind percentages decline to 36–39%, and onshore sea breezes frequently spoil the shape. This is the season for small-wave gear and chasing the rare early-morning glass-off.

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Conditions at Getxo in April

April: Good Vibes and Dropping Size

April sees a notable drop in average swell height to 1.4m and period to 10.8s. The swell direction remains predominantly NW (40.6%) and WNW (21.0%), with a significant contribution from NNW (18.8%). This still means plenty of rideable waves, but the punch and power ease off. The ideal wind percentage is 41%, with S (8.4%) and SSW (7.3%) winds creating clean conditions. April offers fun, rippable surf – often a couple notches smaller than winter but with clean, glassy mornings. Onshore WNW to NW winds (20.6%) increase, so timing the tides with the southerly breezes is key.

Average Spot conditions at Getxo in April

Swell history for April

0 - 0.5
0.5 - 1
1 - 1.5
1.5 - 2.0
2.0 - 2.5
> 2.5 m

Wind history for April

0 - 10
10 - 20
20 - 30
30 - 40
40 - 50
> 50 km/h

Swell quality

Analyze the groundswell consistency at Getxo during April. Based on historical data, there is a % probability of groundswell occurring this month. The chart below provides a detailed breakdown of the average wave height distribution, offering deep insights into the swell quality and surf potential you can expect at Getxo for your next trip in April.

Ground swell

Ground swell by size

Wind conditions

Evaluate the wind and swell alignment at Getxo for April. Our analysis shows that favorable offshore or side-shore winds coincide with surfable swell approximately % of the time. The accompanying graph illustrates the average size distribution of waves during these optimal wind windows at Getxo.

Swell with good wind

Swell with good wind by size