Teahupoo - surf spot statistics

Teahupoo is one of the most iconic and powerful reef breaks in the world, known for its heavy, barreling waves. The best months for surfing here are typically from May to September, when the swell is most consistent and the wave heights peak. During these months, the mean swell size ranges from 2.0m to 2.2m, with ground swell dominating at 80-87% of the time, ensuring clean, powerful waves. However, wind conditions are less favorable, with good winds occurring only 32-39% of the time, particularly from June to September when onshore winds (bad conditions) are most prevalent at 61-68%. The earlier part of this window, May and June, offers slightly better wind percentages compared to July-September. Outside the peak season, from October to April, the swell size decreases gradually (1.6m-1.9m), but wind conditions improve, with good wind days rising to 38-48% in March and April. March and April stand out as good transition months with solid ground swell (87-88%) and relatively better wind chances (47-48%). The winter months (December-February) see smaller swells (1.6m-1.7m) and moderate wind conditions (44-45% good winds), making them less ideal for advanced surfers seeking Teahupoo’s full power. Overall, serious big-wave surfers will prioritize May-September for the largest swells, while those looking for slightly more manageable conditions with fewer wind issues might prefer March-April or October-November.

In January, Teahupoo offers consistent surf with an average swell height of 1.6m and a solid 12.4s period, providing powerful and well-formed waves. The swell direction is predominantly from the SSW (13.85% in the 1.5-2m range), SW (6.96% in the 1.5-2m range), and S (3.19% in the 1.5-2m range), ensuring clean, heavy barrels when conditions align. Smaller but rideable waves (1-1.5m) are frequent from the SE and SSE. Wind conditions are favorable 44% of the time, with light to moderate winds (0-20kph) from the NE to ENE, which often groom the lineup without blowing it out. Stronger winds (20-30kph) occasionally come from the E and NE but are less disruptive due to the spot’s sheltered exposure. Expect a mix of challenging, hollow waves on bigger days and more manageable but still powerful surf when sizes drop slightly.