Maraa - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (March - April & October - November)

Maraa on Tahiti's SW coast comes alive during the transition months of spring and fall. In March and April, the South Pacific begins to churn out consistent long-period groundswells from the south and southwest, carrying an average height of 1.9 to 2.1 meters and periods around 12.6-12.9 seconds. These months also see the highest percentage of favorable offshore wind conditions (41-42%), as the trade winds weaken and often shift more northerly, providing clean, glassy faces. Similarly, October and November deliver a second peak with solid 1.8-2.0m swell and increasing offshore wind frequency (31-35%). The result is a sweet spot where size meets quality, offering powerful, rippable waves at this exposed reef break.

Fair Surf Season (May - September)

Winter in the Southern Hemisphere brings the largest surf of the year to Maraa, with average swell heights peaking at 2.3 meters in June and July and periods hovering around 12.2-12.6 seconds. This is the season of the Roaring Forties, when deep low-pressure systems march across the Tasman Sea and Southern Ocean, sending long-period groundswells directly into the SW-facing reef. However, the trade winds are at their strongest and most consistent during these months, blowing predominantly from the east and southeast. While these winds are technically offshore or side-offshore at Maraa, their strength (often 20-30+ kph) can create bumpy, challenging conditions. The ideal wind percentage drops to 24-26%, meaning only a quarter of the time delivers truly clean surf. For experienced surfers chasing heavy, pumping waves, this season delivers—but you'll need to pick your windows carefully.

Low Surf Season (December - February)

The summer months in Tahiti are the quietest for swell at Maraa. From December through February, average wave heights drop to around 1.7-1.8 meters, and average periods settle between 11.4 and 12.1 seconds. This is the season of smaller, less organized swell trains, often derived from more distant or weaker storms. The good news? The trade winds are lighter and more variable, with ideal offshore wind conditions occurring 37-42% of the time. As a result, the waves are often clean and fun-sized, perfect for logging or groveling on a shortboard. While you won't find the power and size of winter, the conditions are generally pleasant and offer a welcome break for those looking to surf without the crowds and intensity of peak season.

May: Winter Swells Build, Winds Tighten

May sees the swell size peak up to an average of 2.2 meters with a period of 12.9 seconds, as winter storm activity intensifies in the Southern Ocean. Swell direction remains predominantly from the south (S at 26.8%, SSE at 22.5%, SSW at 13.9%). The waves are powerful and heavy, often in the 1.5-2.5m range with occasional larger sets. However, the trade winds strengthen considerably, blowing from the east (23%) and east-southeast (26.5%) with more frequent gusts in the 20-30+ kph range. The ideal wind percentage drops to 31%, meaning clean conditions are less frequent. When the wind is light, Maraa offers exceptional quality, but many days will have bumpy, wind-affected surf. This month rewards early morning sessions before the trades pick up.