La Setenta - surf spot statistics

La Setenta in Cuba is primarily a windswell-driven spot, with ground swells being practically nonexistent throughout the year. The best months for surfers are from October to December, when windswell frequency peaks at 47-62%, and the mean swell size ranges between 0.6-0.7m. November stands out as the most consistent month, with the highest windswell probability (62%) and decent swell size (0.7m). December also offers favorable conditions, with 58% windswell occurrence and the best wind conditions of the year (19% good winds). January and February follow closely with moderate windswell activity (50-56%), though wind conditions remain poor (84-85% bad winds). From March onward, surfable conditions decline significantly, with windswell dropping below 50% and swell size diminishing. The summer months (June-September) are particularly flat, with minimal windswell (11-16%) and extremely unfavorable winds (93-96% bad winds). For surfers seeking rideable waves, the window from late autumn to early winter (October-December) is the optimal period, despite generally onshore winds. Spring and summer are best avoided due to lack of swell and poor wind alignment. Patience and a flexible schedule are key, as even in peak months, good wind days remain below 20%.

October at La Setenta offers relatively small surf with an average swell height of 0.6m and a short 5.3s period, indicating weaker, less powerful waves. The dominant swell directions are NE and NNW, contributing to the majority of rideable conditions, though wave heights mostly stay below 1.5m (over 60% of NE swells are 0.5-1m, and NNW swells peak at 1-1.5m around 6% of the time). The best potential for slightly larger waves comes from NW and WNW swells (1.5-2m range occurring ~0.5% of the time). Wind conditions are challenging, with only 15% of winds being ideal for surfing. ENE winds are strongest (20-30kph nearly 8% of the time), often creating choppy or onshore conditions, while lighter E/NE winds (~10-20kph) prevail but may still disrupt cleaner faces. Expect mostly small, soft waves with occasional mid-period NE/NNW pulses—best suited for longboarding or beginners when winds align offshore. Experienced surfers will need patience for rare clean days with bigger NW energy.