Oum El Bouir - surf spot statistics

Oum El Bouir in Western Sahara is a prime surf spot with consistent conditions year-round, though the best months are clearly defined by swell quality, size, and wind. The most reliable period for surfers is from November to February, when ground swell dominates (80-87%) with minimal wind swell interference, ensuring clean, powerful waves averaging 1.4-1.6m. Wind conditions are also most favorable during these months, particularly in November, December, and January, with good offshore winds around 65-66% of the time. February sees a slight drop in favorable winds (51%) but maintains excellent swell consistency. March and April still offer decent ground swell (72-79%), but wind conditions deteriorate, with onshore winds becoming more frequent (59-64%). From May through September, the spot shifts to wind swell dominance (62-99%), which tends to be less organized and weaker, though September shows a slight ground swell return (32%). Summer months (June-August) have the worst conditions, with almost pure wind swell (91-99%) and poor wind stats (36-44% good winds). October marks the transition back to better surf, with ground swell rising to 64% and winds improving (59% favorable). Overall, winter delivers the highest quality waves, while summer is inconsistent and better suited for beginners or windsurfing. For advanced surfers, November to January is the peak window.

November at Oum El Bouir, Western Sahara, offers solid surfing conditions with a consistent, medium-sized swell and favorable winds. The average swell height is 1.4m with a strong 12.8s period, providing well-formed, powerful waves. The dominant swell direction is from the NNW, contributing 33.5% of waves in the 1-1.5m range and 19.37% in the 1.5-2m range, while NW and N swells also deliver surfable energy, particularly in the 1-2m range. Wind conditions are ideal 65% of the time, with light to moderate NNE and NE winds (10-30kph) being most common—offering offshore or cross-shore flow for clean faces. Stronger winds (20-30kph) occasionally appear but are less frequent. Expect a mix of waist-to-head-high waves with occasional overhead sets, especially on NNW swells, making it a reliable spot for intermediate to advanced surfers in November. The spot handles larger swells well, though the lack of significant swell from other directions keeps conditions focused and predictable.