Pirates Cove - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (May - October)

The southwest monsoon takes hold across the Philippines, ushering in a prolonged period of offshore winds from the SW, WSW, W, and WNW that groom the ENE-facing beach at Pirates Cove to perfection. Swell height averages between 0.7m and 1.1m during these months, with long-period energy (9-10s) making the most of the punchy, clean faces. May and October see the best blend of size and consistency thanks to early tropical disturbances and late-season typhoon remnants, while June through September deliver ultra-consistent, small-to-fun waves perfect for logging or groveling on a high-performance board. The wind blows offshore over a third of the time, peaking at 63% in September, meaning you can count on glassy conditions more often than not.

Fair Surf Season (November - April)

As the northeast monsoon ramps up, storms in the North Pacific send powerful, long-period swell marching toward Pirates Cove, pushing average heights to 1.5m-1.8m from November through February. However, these same winds blow from the onshore quadrants (NE, ENE, E), trashing the surface and limiting clean-surf windows to only 1-11% of the time. March and April see a gradual transition: swell drops to 1.2-1.5m while the wind shifts slightly more toward the south, offering occasional morning glass but still dominated by onshore flow. This is the season for patient, wave-starved surfers who don't mind battling a chop in exchange for a few quality sets when the wind miraculously goes light or backs into the SW. The biggest, most powerful swells of the year hit here, but you have to pick your windows wisely.

Low Surf Season (December - February)

These three months represent the toughest stretch for finding clean, rideable surf at Pirates Cove. The northeast monsoon is in full force, with winds from the NE and ENE blowing 25-30+ kph over 40% of the time. Swell is plentiful – averaging 1.7-1.8m with periods around 9-10s – but it's almost always accompanied by choppy, messy conditions. The percentage of ideal offshore wind plummets to a mere 1%. Only the occasional passing low-pressure system or a rare westerly wind shift can salvage a session. For most surfers, this is a time to explore other spots or travel further south for cleaner options. If you do paddle out, expect a bumpy, challenging wave that rewards only the most determined.

October: The Magic Window

October is arguably the best month overall for Pirates Cove. The southwest monsoon lingers into early October, bringing offshore winds nearly 38% of the time, while the northeast monsoon has yet to fully establish. Swell height jumps to 1.1m (average) with a period of 10.3s – powerful, long-period energy. The swell direction meters show a beautiful mix: 46% from NE and 35% from ENE, delivering solid, shoulder-to-head-high waves. Offshore winds from the W and NW often accompany these swells, especially during the first half of the month. This creates clean, groomed waves with real power. As October progresses, the wind shifts more onshore, but early-morning windows remain excellent. This is the month to book your trip.