Puerto Escondido - surf spot statistics

Puerto Escondido is renowned for its powerful, consistent waves, making it a premier surf destination year-round. The spot predominantly experiences ground swells, with nearly every month having 92% or higher ground swell occurrence, ensuring reliable wave energy. The swell size averages between 1.0m and 1.7m, peaking from June to September when the mean swell height reaches its maximum of 1.6m-1.7m. These months also coincide with the largest swells, offering more powerful and challenging waves, particularly at the famous Zicatela Beach, known for its heavy barrels. However, wind conditions during this period are less favorable, with only 35%-39% of days offering good winds, while 61%-65% of days experience onshore or cross-shore winds that can disrupt wave quality. The most balanced conditions—combining solid swell and relatively better winds—occur from November to February. During this period, the swell remains strong (1.0m-1.2m) with near-perfect ground swell consistency (98%-100%), while wind conditions improve, with good winds occurring 44%-49% of the time. November and December are particularly appealing, offering a sweet spot between manageable wave sizes and a near-even split between favorable and unfavorable winds. From March to May, swell size increases (1.2m-1.5m), but wind conditions deteriorate significantly, with bad wind days rising to 65%-73%. Similarly, late summer and early fall (June-September) bring the biggest waves but also the highest likelihood of disruptive winds. For surfers seeking the most rideable conditions with a balance of swell and wind, the winter months (November-February) are ideal, while experienced big-wave riders may target the summer swell peaks despite the wind trade-offs.

October in Puerto Escondido delivers powerful and consistent surf, with an average swell height of 1.5m and a robust 14.7s period—indicating well-organized, high-energy waves. The swell direction is predominantly from the SSW (40.18% in the 1-1.5m range, 24.24% in 1.5-2m), followed by SW contributions, ensuring long, groomed walls ideal for advanced surfers. Larger sets (2-2.5m) are present but less frequent (3.29% SSW). Wind conditions are favorable 43% of the time, with lighter offshore or cross-offshore breezes (under 20kph) from N, NNE, or NW directions (7-10% combined), though moderate onshore winds from the S-SSW quadrant can occasionally disrupt conditions. Expect peaky, hollow waves early in the day before winds pick up. This is prime big-wave season—bring your step-up or gun for the heavier days, especially when SSW swells push into the overhead-plus range.