Lower Trestles - surf spot statistics

Lower Trestles is a consistent surf spot with predominantly ground swell year-round, though the optimal conditions vary across seasons. The best months for surfing are typically from March through September, when ground swell occurrence is highest (82–96%) and swell size averages around 0.8–0.9m. However, wind conditions play a crucial role, with onshore winds (bad conditions) dominating most of the year. The most favorable wind conditions are found in September and October, when good wind percentages reach 40%, though even then, offshore winds remain a minority. Late spring and early summer (May–June) see the strongest swells (0.9m), but wind quality drops significantly (only 26% favorable). Winter months (November–February) offer slightly better wind ratios (32–36% good), but swell consistency and size decrease, with more no-swell or wind-swell days. Ultimately, September and October strike the best balance, combining reliable ground swells (89–95%) and the least unfavorable winds (40% good), while still maintaining decent swell heights around 0.7–0.8m. For surfers prioritizing clean conditions over raw swell size, these transitional months are the most dependable.

April at Lower Trestles offers relatively consistent conditions for surfers, with an average swell height of 0.8m and a solid period of 14.9s—indicating clean, well-spaced waves. The primary swell direction is from the SSW (49.5% of waves in the 0.5-1m range), followed by SW and WSW, which aligns well with the break’s orientation. While the majority of waves are in the waist-to-chest-high range (0.5-1.5m), there are occasional larger sets, particularly from the SW and WSW, which can produce head-high waves (1.5-2m) on the best days. Wind conditions are favorable 31% of the time, with the most common clean conditions occurring during lighter winds from the NE and ENE (under 10kph). However, afternoon onshore winds from the WSW and W can pick up, occasionally reaching 20-30kph, which may deteriorate surface conditions. Overall, April is a decent month for surfing here, with the best sessions likely in the morning when winds are light and the SSW/SW swells deliver rideable, if not always powerful, waves.