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 January, Manly typically offers decent surfing conditions with an average swell height of 1.6m and a solid period of 8.5s, producing well-formed and rideable waves. The swell is predominantly from the east to southeast, with ENE, E, and ESE directions contributing the most consistent and sizable waves (1-2.5m range). Smaller swells (0.5-1.5m) from SE and SSE directions also occur frequently, while larger swells (>2.5m) are rare but possible. Wind conditions are favorable 44% of the time, with light to moderate speeds (10-20kph) from NE and ENE directions being the most common. However, stronger winds (20-30kph) from NNE, NE, or S can occasionally create choppier conditions. Overall, January provides a mix of clean and manageable surf, best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers when winds align offshore or light cross-shore. Expect some variability, but there are plenty of surfable days with decent shape and size.