La Rinconada - surf spot statistics

La Rinconada in Chile is a consistent surf spot with reliable ground swell throughout the year, rarely experiencing flat conditions (0% no swell). The swell is predominantly ground swell, averaging 90% or higher, ensuring quality waves with mean sizes ranging from 1.6m to 2.0m. The best months for surfers are from May to August, when swell size peaks at 1.9m–2.0m, offering powerful and clean waves. Wind conditions, however, are challenging, with bad winds (onshore or cross-shore) dominating 65%–78% of the time year-round. The least unfavorable winds occur from March to June, with good wind probabilities around 32%–36%, slightly improving wave quality during these months. While winter (June–August) brings the largest swells, spring (September–November) and fall (March–May) offer a balance between decent swell size and marginally better wind conditions compared to summer. Overall, advanced surfers will find the most consistent waves from late fall to early winter (May–July), despite persistent wind challenges, while those prioritizing cleaner conditions may prefer March–April when wind probabilities are slightly less harsh.

January at La Rinconada offers consistent surf conditions with an average swell height of 1.6m and a solid period of 13.9s, indicating powerful, well-formed waves. The swell is predominantly from the WSW (25.32% at 1.5-2m) and WNW (13.17% at 1.5-2m), providing clean, long-period groundswells ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. Smaller but still surfable waves (1-1.5m) occur frequently from WSW (14.56%) and WNW (13.99%), ensuring good variety. However, wind conditions are less favorable, with only 22% of days offering ideal offshore winds. The wind is often onshore from the S and SSW, particularly at 10-30kph, which can create choppy conditions. Despite this, the spot’s exposure to consistent, high-quality swell makes it a reliable winter destination—just watch for wind direction and prioritize early sessions when winds are lighter.