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.

July at Saltburn offers predominantly small and inconsistent surf, with an average swell height of just 0.6m and a modest 5.8s period. The majority of waves fall in the 0-1m range, with the most favorable swells arriving from the N to NNE directions, where 1.5-2m waves occasionally occur (1.53% NNE, 0.55% N). However, these larger swells are rare, and most sessions will be knee-high or smaller. Wind conditions are only ideal for surfing 14% of the time, with lighter winds generally coming from the NE to E. Stronger onshore winds (SW to W) are more frequent, creating choppy or blown-out conditions, particularly when combined with weaker swells. For experienced surfers, patience and timing will be key—look for windless mornings around incoming NNE swells for the rare clean, rideable peaks. Beginners may find the small waves manageable, but overall, July is not a prime month here. Expect mostly gutless waves with occasional short-lived windows of decent surf.