Manly - surf spot statistics

Manly Beach in Australia offers a mix of conditions year-round, with the best surfing months typically being from late summer into autumn, particularly February to April. During these months, the swell is a balanced mix of ground and wind swells, with February having 18% ground swell and 82% wind swell, while April sees an increase in ground swell to 26% and 74% wind swell. The average swell size remains steady at 1.6m, providing consistent wave heights. Wind conditions are also favorable, with February having the highest percentage of good winds at 47%, though April sees a slight drop to 37%. Winter months from May to August experience higher ground swell percentages, peaking at 31% in June, but the wind conditions deteriorate significantly, with bad winds dominating at 76% in May and peaking at 85% in July. Swell size decreases slightly in winter to around 1.4-1.5m. Spring and early summer from September to December see a return to more wind-dominated swells, with ground swell dropping below 20% by November and December. Wind conditions improve slightly, with good winds rising back to 34% in October and 42% in December. Overall, surfers will find the most reliable conditions from February to April when swell composition, size, and wind conditions align best for quality surfing at Manly.

In April, Manly offers surfable conditions with an average swell height of 1.6m and a solid period of 9.5s, indicating consistent, well-spaced waves. The majority of swell comes from the SSE to E directions, with the best energy concentrated in the 1-2.5m range, particularly from the ESE to SSE quadrants (peaking around SSE). These swells produce clean, rideable waves, though ENE and E directions also contribute decent surf when conditions align. Wind is favorable 37% of the time, with lighter offshore or cross-shore winds (NNE to NW) keeping things clean, but moderate onshore winds (S to SE) can occasionally create chop. Expect the most consistent quality when swells from the SSE (3-5% of 1.5-2.5m waves) coincide with lighter winds—ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. However, the spot can handle a mix of conditions, from smaller, playful waves on E swells to punchier peaks when SSE energy dominates. Watch for stronger S/SSW winds, which may degrade conditions. Overall, April delivers a mix of surf opportunities, with the best windows being early mornings or days with offshore flow.