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.

November at this surf spot offers decent conditions for experienced riders, though with some variability. The average swell height is 1.9m, paired with a solid 8.8s period—indicating generally clean, well-spaced waves with decent energy. The most consistent swell direction comes from the SW to NW sectors, which aligns best with the break, producing rideable waves in the 1-2.5m range (peaking in the SSW to SW directions with notable frequencies of 1.5-2.5m waves). Wind conditions are mixed, with only 13% of days offering ideal offshore or light winds (typically from the E-NE sector). However, moderate onshore winds from the SW to W are more common, which can create choppier conditions, especially when paired with stronger wind speeds (20-40kph). Larger swells (2.5m+) are infrequent but possible, mostly from SW and W directions, offering powerful but less predictable sessions. For surfers, the best windows will be during SW-NW swells with lighter ENE or E winds for cleaner faces. Cold and variable winds mean wetsuit-ready resilience is key.