Saltburn - surf spot statistics

Saltburn in the United Kingdom offers surfable conditions year-round, but the best months for surfers are typically from autumn through early spring, when swell energy and consistency peak. The most favorable period is between October and December, with strong ground swell contributions (11-17%) and the highest mean swell sizes (0.9-1.0m). November and December stand out with the highest combined swell probability (78-79%) and decent ground swell influence, though wind conditions remain challenging (85-86% bad winds). Winter months (January-February) also provide solid surf, with consistent wind swells (62-63%) and reasonable ground swell presence (13-16%), though onshore winds prevail (87-88% bad winds). Spring (March-April) sees slightly smaller swells (0.9m) but marginally improved wind conditions (15-18% good winds). Summer (May-August) is the least reliable, with minimal ground swell (1-3%), weaker swells (0.6-0.8m), and persistent poor winds (84-87% bad). September marks a transitional period, with improving swell but still suboptimal winds. For the best balance of swell size and frequency, late autumn and early winter (October-December) are prime, despite frequent onshore winds—surfers should prioritize sessions during rare offshore wind windows (12-17% probability) for cleaner conditions.

January at Saltburn offers fairly modest surf conditions, with an average swell height of 1.0m and a decent period of 7.6s, suggesting some rideable waves, though often on the smaller side. The most consistent swells come from the N, NNE, and NNW directions, which contribute the majority of waves in the 0.5-2m range—ideal for intermediate surfers. Larger waves (over 2m) are rare but possible, primarily from northerly directions. Winds are the main limiting factor, with only 12% of conditions being ideal (offshore or light cross-shore). The dominant winds are from the S, SSW, and SW, often blowing at 20-50kph, creating choppy or blown-out conditions. While there are clean days, especially when winds shift northerly, January is generally inconsistent with a mix of small, weak swells and challenging wind patterns. Surfers should monitor forecasts for those rarer clean, mid-sized sessions.