Guajataca - surf spot statistics

Guajataca in the United States offers a mix of swell and wind conditions throughout the year, with the best surfing months typically aligning with the winter and early spring period. From November to March, the spot experiences the highest mean swell sizes, averaging around 1.5 to 1.6 meters, with ground swell contributing 30–34% of the surfable waves, supplemented by wind swell making up the majority. These months also see the most consistent wave activity, with virtually no days without swell. However, wind conditions during this period are less favorable, with bad winds (onshore or cross-shore) occurring 74–83% of the time, while good winds (offshore) are only present 17–26% of the time. April and September-October provide a slightly better balance, with mean swells around 1.1–1.3 meters, an increase in good wind days (30–38%), and still decent ground swell contributions. May to August, particularly June and July, see weaker swells (0.9–1.1 meters) dominated almost entirely by wind swell, which tends to be less clean and powerful. While summer months have more manageable wind conditions (38% good winds in May, June, and September-October), the smaller and less consistent swell makes them less ideal for advanced surfers. Overall, the prime window for good waves is November to March, but surfers must be prepared to contend with challenging winds. For a better balance of swell and wind, late spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) can also be worthwhile, though with smaller waves.

In January, Guajataca offers decent surf conditions with an average swell height of 1.6m and a solid period of 10.0s, indicating consistent, well-formed waves. The swell primarily arrives from the northeast (NE, ENE, NNE), with the most significant contributions in the 1-2.5m range—ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. The likelihood of larger swells (over 2.5m) is minimal, keeping conditions manageable. Wind quality is a limiting factor, with only 21% of the time offering ideal offshore or light cross-shore winds (typically from W, WNW). The dominant ENE and E winds often bring onshore gusts (10-30kph), which can create choppy conditions. However, when winds align favorably, the spot works well given the clean, organized swells. Expect the best sessions during periods of lighter WNW winds or during lulls in the prevailing easterlies. For committed surfers, patience and timing are key to scoring clean, ridable waves in January.