Manzanillo - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (April - October)

From April through October, Manzanillo comes into its own as the trade winds ease and the Pacific sends consistent, long-period swell from the SSW and SW. This is when the percentage of clean, offshore wind days climbs to its annual peak, particularly in September and October when the wind shifts lighter and more variable. Average wave periods range from 12 to 14 seconds, bringing powerful, well-shaped waves that wrap into the southwest-facing bay. The combination of favorable swell direction and improved wind conditions makes this the prime window for quality surf.

Fair Surf Season (March & November)

March and November serve as transitional months, where the swell direction begins to shift and wind patterns are less stable. March sees the first hints of long-period south swell mixing in with the dominant easterly trade wind swell, while November retains some south swell before the trade winds fully re-establish. However, the percentage of ideal wind days is moderate, and the consistency of quality surf is lower than the peak season. Still, with a bit of patience, you can score some fun sessions.

Low Surf Season (December - February)

December through February marks the low point of the year for Manzanillo. The trade winds howl out of the east-northeast, often exceeding 30 kph, creating choppy, wind-blown conditions. Swell is short-period and predominantly from the east and northeast - directions that don't favorably wrap into the southwest-facing beach. While the average wave height sits around 1.3-1.4m, the quality is poor, with few windows of clean, rideable surf. This is the time for a surf trip elsewhere or for taking a break.

May: South Swell Season Ignites

May sees a dramatic improvement as southern hemisphere storms fire up and send long-period swell directly into Manzanillo's window. The swell is overwhelmingly from optimal directions: SSW (43.7%) and SW (21.9%), with an average period of 13.7 seconds – delivering powerful, well-shaped lines. Wind conditions improve markedly too; ENE drops to 53.4% prevalence, and lighter speeds mean offshore winds (from the north to east quadrant) now occur 27% of the time. This is a premium month for quality surf, with consistent, punchy waves and improved odds of clean, wind-smooth faces. The combination of long-period SW swell and manageable trades is a recipe for excellent sessions.