Refsnes - surf spot statistics

Refsnes, Norway, offers a mix of conditions throughout the year, with the best surf typically occurring during the winter months. The most consistent and powerful swells arrive between December and February, when ground swell makes up 25-29% of the swell mix, combining with a dominant wind swell (66-72%). Mean swell sizes peak around 2.0-2.2m during these months, providing solid waves for experienced surfers. However, wind conditions are generally unfavorable (85-87% bad wind days), meaning clean surf sessions are relatively rare. The transition months of September to November show improving ground swell presence (14-20%) and slightly better mean swell sizes (1.4-1.9m), but wind quality remains poor (87-88% bad winds). From April to August, conditions deteriorate significantly, with very low ground swell influence (4-22%) and small mean swell sizes (1.0-1.2m). Summer months (June-August) are particularly weak, with high wind swell dominance (75-79%) and increased no-swell days (15-20%). Wind conditions remain consistently poor year-round, rarely dropping below 83% bad wind days. For surfers willing to brave the cold, late autumn through early winter (November-February) offers the best chance for rideable waves, though finding clean conditions will require patience and good timing.

July at Refsnes offers generally small to moderate surf conditions, with an average swell height of 1.0m and a decent period of 6.7s. The dominant swell directions come from the SW, WSW, W, and WNW, with the highest frequency of waves in the 0.5-1.5m range, particularly from the SW and W sectors. While larger waves (1.5m+) occur occasionally, they are less common. Wind conditions are a mixed bag—only about 10% of the time will winds be ideal for surfing (light offshore or cross-offshore). The wind patterns are variable, but stronger winds (20-30kph+) frequently blow from the NW and NNW, which can create choppy or blown-out conditions. Surfers should target days with lighter winds from the NE to E quadrant for cleaner waves. Overall, July is decent for beginners or mellow sessions, but advanced surfers may find it underwhelming unless lucky with a rare larger swell and favorable winds.