Getxo - surf spot statistics

Getxo, Spain, offers consistent surf conditions year-round, but the best months for surfing are typically from late autumn through early spring, when ground swells dominate and wave quality is at its peak. The highest probability of solid ground swells occurs from October to March, with January standing out as the most reliable month—offering an 84% chance of ground swells, a mean swell size of 1.7m, and the most consistent energy. February and December are also strong contenders, with ground swell probabilities above 80% and mean swell heights around 1.6m. November and March follow closely with good ground swell activity and decent wave heights (1.5m and 1.4m respectively). Wind conditions, however, are less favorable overall, with onshore winds dominating most of the year. The best wind windows appear in September through November, particularly October, where good wind conditions peak at 35%. Despite slightly smaller swells, autumn can provide cleaner sessions due to improved wind patterns. From April onward, ground swells decrease significantly, giving way to wind swells, which dominate summer months (June-August). While summer waves are smaller (0.8m-0.9m) and less consistent, offshore mornings or light wind days can still provide surfable conditions. May and September serve as transitional months, with a mix of ground and wind swells but generally smaller sizes (1.0m-1.2m). For advanced surfers seeking powerful, well-formed waves, the winter months (January-March, November-December) are the prime time, despite the higher chance of unfavorable winds. Those preferring milder conditions with occasional clean days should target late autumn (October-November) or early spring (March-April), when ground swells persist but winds are slightly more manageable. Summer is best left for beginners or longboarders on rare calm days.

April in Getxo offers surfable conditions with an average swell height of 1.2m and a solid period of 10.9s, suggesting consistent and well-formed waves. The primary swell directions are NW and NNW, contributing the majority of rideable waves (especially in the 0.5–2.5m range), while other directions are negligible. Wind conditions are favorable for surfing 28% of the time, with lighter winds (10–20kph) from the NNE and NE being most common. However, stronger winds (20–40kph) from the WNW and W can occasionally create choppy conditions. Expect smaller, more frequent waves (1–1.5m) with occasional larger sets (1.5–2.5m) when the NW or NNW swell dominates. Overall, April provides decent opportunities for intermediate to advanced surfers, especially on days with lighter offshore or cross-shore winds.