Pippies - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (June – August)

The deep winter months bring the most consistent and high-quality surf to Pippies. With the subtropical ridge shifting north, the southeast trade winds weaken and give way to frequent offshore flows from the west and northwest. Average wave periods push past 9 seconds, delivering punchy, rideable swell. The dominant swell directions shift more south-southeast, wrapping nicely into this southeast-facing gem. Wind statistics show a reliable 49-53% of the time with ideal offshore conditions, making June through August the prime window for groomed waves.

Fair Surf Season (May & September)

These shoulder months straddle the transition between the summer trade wind regime and the winter westerly pattern. May still sees a mix of easterly swell and improving offshore winds – ideal percentages jump to 39% as the first strong fronts begin to sweep through. September offers a similar picture with 49% ideal winds, though the swell period begins to drop as we head into spring. The quality can be excellent on the right day, but consistency is lower than mid-winter.

Low Surf Season (October – April)

Summer and early autumn are the most challenging times at Pippies. The persistent southeast trade winds dominate – onshore winds from the east through southeast blow over 40% of the time, ruining wave shape. While swell heights average 1.4-1.7m and directions from the east and east-southeast are plentiful, the chronic onshore flow often chops up the surface. Occasional tropical lows or ex-cyclones can deliver clean, long-period eastern swell if the wind aligns, but those windows are rare. This is the season for dawn patrols and patience.

December: Summer Onslaught

December marks the official start of summer and the most challenging month for consistent surf at Pippies. Average swell height is 1.4m with a period of 8.1s – generally weak and disorganized. Swell directions are heavily easterly: NE (14%), ENE (15%), E (18%), and ESE (17%) dominate, which are favorable directions, but the period is too short to generate real power. The wind is the main issue: ideal offshore wind occurs only 35% of the time. Onshore winds from the SE, SSE, and S combine for over 30% of observations, with the trade wind machine in full swing. Westerly winds are scarce, totalling only around 8%. Wave heights are predominantly 0.5-1.5m, with few overhead days. The surf is frequently windy, choppy, and small. Your best bet in December is to chase early morning sea breezes or hope for a tropical cyclone swell that aligns with a rare offshore wind window. Otherwise, it’s a month for longboard fun in less-than-ideal conditions.