Paunch - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (December - March)

During the heart of the North Pacific winter, the Caribbean trades relax and the Pacific storm track shifts, sending consistent groundswell across the equator. For Paunch, this means the average swell height peaks around 1.2-1.4m with periods regularly reaching 8.3s. The offshore wind machine is in full effect, with W, WNW, and NW breezes blowing clean and strong over 90% of the time. While the swell direction remains predominantly from the NE, the combination of solid size and glassy conditions makes for better-than-average sessions. The waves are punchy and rideable, mostly in the fun-sized range, with the occasional bigger set pushing into the solid category.

Fair Surf Season (April - August, November)

As the Pacific storm activity wanes, average swell heights drop to 1.0-1.2m and periods shorten to around 7.5-8.4s. The wind remains mostly offshore from the west, though the percentage of ideal breezes dips slightly. The dominant NE swell persists, but during these months the spot also sees a slight uptick in NNE and ENE contributions. Surf can be fun on the right day, especially when a longer period swell sneaks in. Expect mostly small to fun-sized waves, often groveling on the smaller end, but still plenty of rideable waves for the patient surfer.

Low Surf Season (September - October)

September and October are the quietest months at Paunch. Average swell heights tumble to just 0.7m with periods hovering around 7.0-7.4s. The wind becomes less reliable, with ideal offshore breezes dropping to as low as 61% in October. The swell direction continues to be dominated by NE, but the lack of size and period leaves the spot often flat or choppy. This is the time for micro-sessions on the smallest of swells, or better yet, plan a trip to a more exposed break.

February: Consistent Cold Swell

February mirrors January with an average swell height of 1.3m and a period of 8.3s. NE swell dominates at 86.1%, while offshore winds remain strong with WNW (34.9%) and W (22.5%) blowing 94% of the time. The wave energy is consistent, and the offshore flow keeps the surface butter-smooth. The period is mostly in the average, punchy range (6-9s), offering fun waves for all levels. With the wind so favorable, even the NE swell wraps in decent shape. The occasional longer period event can elevate conditions to the solid category.