Surf forecastSpot statisticsHistorical report

Strand seasonal overview

The surf conditions at this beach in South Africa show a clear seasonal pattern influenced by ground swells and wind conditions. Ground swells dominate year-round, peaking from May to August at 90% or higher, with the highest mean swell sizes during these months (2.6m to 2.9m). This period, especially June and July, offers the most consistent and powerful waves, ideal for experienced surfers. Wind conditions improve slightly from April to July, with good wind days reaching 24-30%, though bad winds still prevail (70-77%). The offseason—November to February—has slightly smaller swells (2.1m-2.2m) and fewer good wind days (14-16%), making it less reliable. Overall, late autumn to winter (May-August) provides the best combo of strong, clean ground swells and slightly better wind chances, while summer months are more inconsistent due to higher onshore winds.

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Conditions at Strand in January

January at this South African beach offers consistent surf with an average swell height of 2.1m and a solid period of 11.6s, delivering powerful, well-spaced waves. The swell is predominantly SW (peaking at 20.61% for 1.5-2m waves and 23.18% for 2-2.5m), with strong contributions from SSW and S directions, ensuring quality groundswells. Smaller swells from SE/SSE are less frequent but add variety. Offshore winds (ideal for surfing) occur only 15% of the time, primarily when ENE or lighter ESE winds counter the dominant SE/SSE onshore flow. However, the SE/ESE winds are often strong (20-40kph), creating choppy conditions. Larger swells (2m+) are common (SW: 24.55% over 2m), offering advanced surfers powerful, hollow waves, while smaller days (1-2m) still provide playful rides. Expect a mix of clean early sessions and wind-affected afternoons, with the best conditions coinciding with lighter ESE/E winds or rare offshore setups. A solid destination for experienced surfers, though patience is needed for optimal wind alignment.

Average Spot conditions at Strand in January

Swell history for January

0 - 0.5
0.5 - 1
1 - 1.5
1.5 - 2.0
2.0 - 2.5
> 2.5 m

Wind history for January

0 - 10
10 - 20
20 - 30
30 - 40
40 - 50
> 50 km/h

Swell quality

Analyze the groundswell consistency at Strand during January. Based on historical data, there is a % probability of groundswell occurring this month. The chart below provides a detailed breakdown of the average wave height distribution, offering deep insights into the swell quality and surf potential you can expect at Strand for your next trip in January.

Ground swell

Ground swell by size

Wind conditions

Evaluate the wind and swell alignment at Strand for January. Our analysis shows that favorable offshore or side-shore winds coincide with surfable swell approximately % of the time. The accompanying graph illustrates the average size distribution of waves during these optimal wind windows at Strand.

Swell with good wind

Swell with good wind by size