Mavericks - surf spot statistics

Mavericks, known for its powerful and often dangerous waves, offers the best surfing conditions during the winter months, particularly from November through February. During this period, ground swell dominates, with percentages ranging from 87% in November to 93% in January, ensuring consistent, high-quality waves generated by distant storms. The mean swell size peaks at 1.9m in January and February, dropping slightly to 1.8m in December, which is ideal for experienced surfers seeking challenging surf. Wind conditions are most favorable in January and December, with good winds occurring around 50% of the time, though February sees a dip in favorable winds (42%). Outside these months, wind conditions deteriorate significantly, with bad wind frequencies above 50% from March onward, peaking at 89% in July. Swell quality declines noticeably in spring and summer, with ground swell percentages dropping as low as 50% in June and wind swell becoming more prominent, leading to less predictable and generally smaller waves (1.0m–1.5m). September and October mark a transitional period, with improving ground swell (71%–82%) and marginally better wind conditions (21%–36%), but still fall short of winter’s consistency. For surfers targeting Mavericks’ legendary waves, the prime window is clearly winter, when large, clean ground swells and relatively manageable wind conditions combine to create world-class surf.

November at Mavericks offers solid surf conditions, with an average swell height of 1.5m and a strong 13.0s period, providing powerful, well-spaced waves. The dominant swell direction is from the west (W), contributing the majority of rideable waves, particularly in the 1-2.5m range. WSW and WNW swells also bring consistent energy, though larger sets (over 2.5m) are rare. Wind conditions are favorable nearly half the time (48%), with the most common ideal winds coming from the NW and W sectors at moderate speeds (10-30kph). However, stronger NW winds (20-50kph) can create chop, while lighter winds from the N/NE are typically clean but less frequent. For experienced surfers, November delivers reliable, powerful waves, though attention to wind shifts is key for optimal sessions.