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.

In March, La Rinconada offers consistent surf conditions with an average swell height of 1.6m and a solid period of 13.9s, translating to powerful, well-organized waves. The swell is predominantly WSW (45% of waves between 1-2.5m), followed by W and WNW directions, ensuring good exposure to groundswell. Only 32% of days have ideal offshore winds, primarily from the E to SE quadrants, which are light to moderate (0-20kph). However, the majority of wind conditions are from the S to SW, often blowing 10-30kph, which can create onshore chop, particularly during southerly winds. The best sessions occur when mid-period WSW swells (1.5-2.5m) coincide with light easterlies, offering clean, rippable walls. Expect larger, more challenging waves when WSW energy peaks (2-2.5m, 8.7% of swells), though wind quality drops significantly. Overall, March is a reliable month for intermediate to advanced surfers, with a mix of playful and powerful days, but patience is needed for optimal wind alignment.