Pine Grove - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (May - October)

During these months, the predominant wind patterns shift to offer a higher frequency of offshore flow from the south and southwest, creating clean, groomed conditions. While the swell remains modest and primarily east-oriented, the combination of offshore winds and fun-sized waves (0.5-1.5m) delivers the most consistent surfable waves at Pine Grove. The average wave period hovers around 6 seconds, providing punchy, rideable waves ideal for shortboards and grovelers.

Fair Surf Season (November - April)

The winter half of the year brings a slight uptick in average swell height and period due to the increased activity of extratropical storms in the North Atlantic. However, the dominant wind direction tilts toward east and northeast, which is onshore for this north-facing beach. This results in more choppy, messy conditions despite the slightly larger swell. Persistent onshore flow limits the quality, but occasional windows of offshore winds can still produce fun waves, often when a strong high-pressure system sets up to the north.

Low Surf Season (Year-Round)

Due to its north-facing orientation and the dominant east swell direction, Pine Grove rarely sees optimal wave conditions. The majority of the year features small, gutless waves with short periods, and the wind is often unfavorable. Even during the best months, surfers must be selective, picking the rare days when a south wind coincides with any east groundswell. The lack of north swell means this spot will never truly fire, remaining a consistent but low-energy option for those willing to work with what the Atlantic provides.

July: Summer Doldrums with Spice

July sees a slight dip in ideal wind to 46%, but the average swell height bumps to 0.9m and period stays at 6.0s. Swell remains from east-southeast (53.5%) and east (45.0%), but there is a tiny increase in the 1-1.5m range (9.4% from east). Wind patterns shift: east (55.2%) becomes the dominant direction, often moderate in strength (10-20kph), which is onshore for this north-facing beach. However, the light wind percentages remain significant, and occasional tropical storms or mesoscale features can produce a pulse of longer-period swell from the southeast. When this aligns with a south-southwest breeze (offshore), the waves can jump to fun, shoulder-high sets with better shape. These events are rare but exciting, breaking the monotony of small, wind-affected surf. Overall, July requires patience and a willingness to pick the days with light winds and any sign of swell.