Isla Chepillo - surf spot statistics

Isla Chepillo in Panama experiences consistent ground swell throughout the year, with the highest probability occurring from April to May (68-72%) and August (67%). The swell is predominantly ground-driven, with minimal wind swell influence, ensuring cleaner wave conditions. However, the mean swell size remains modest at around 0.5-0.6 meters, indicating mostly small to medium waves. Wind conditions are challenging year-round, with the highest likelihood of favorable winds occurring in April (29% good conditions) and the lowest in January-February (14-16%). Despite this, strong onshore winds (bad conditions) dominate, averaging 71-86% probability across all months, peaking in January-February. The best months for surfing are likely April and May due to the highest ground swell consistency and slightly better wind chances (27-29% favorable), though surfers should expect frequent wind interference. Late-year months like November and December see a drop in ground swell (51-57%) and persistent poor winds, making them less ideal. Overall, Isla Chepillo is a spot with reliable but small swells, best surfed in mid-year months when ground swell peaks and wind conditions are marginally better, though wind remains a limiting factor.

February at Isla Chepillo offers surfable conditions, though they lean toward small and inconsistent. The average swell height is modest at 0.6m, but the 12.9s swell period indicates relatively clean, well-spaced waves when swells arrive. The dominant swell directions are from the S and SSW, contributing over 70% of waves in the 0.5-1.5m range, with the majority (42-43%) falling in the 0.5-1m category. Larger swells over 1.5m are rare, meaning most days are suited for beginners or longboarders, with occasional waist-high peaks for shortboards. Wind conditions are less ideal, with only 16% of days offering favorable offshore or light cross-shore winds. Stronger winds are common, particularly from the N and NNW, often exceeding 20kph (28% of the time), leading to choppy or blown-out conditions. For the best sessions, target days with S/SSW swells coinciding with lighter morning winds, though expect mostly small, playful waves with limited power. Advanced surfers may find it underwhelming unless a rare, larger SSW pulse aligns with cleaner wind.