Ulladulla Bommie - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (April - September)

The Australian winter unleashes its full fury on the Tasman Sea, sending consistent long-period groundswells hammering into Ulladulla's southeast-facing reef. As deep low-pressure systems spin up in the Southern Ocean, they generate powerful S and SSE swells that hit the Bommie with 1.5-2.5m of heavy, lined-up surf. Periods often stretch into the 9-10 second range, providing the punch needed to light up the deep-water takeoff zone. Meanwhile, a persistent high-pressure ridge over the continent feeds cool, offshore NW winds, ensuring glassy conditions for peak performance. This is when the Bommie truly fires – expect pumping, rippable waves and consistent clean lines.

Fair Surf Season (March & October)

The shoulder months offer a mixed bag of potential. March still channels the tail-end of winter's energy, with decent S/SSE swell percentages and a rising chance of offshore NW winds. October marks the transition back to spring, when east-trade swells creep back in, but the Tasman still fires off the occasional south pulse. Wind patterns are less reliable – you'll need to pick your windows carefully. On the right day, you can score solid, fun-sized surf with lighter winds, but consistency takes a hit.

Low Surf Season (November - February)

Summer dominance of NE-E trade winds is the Bommie's kryptonite. These winds are mostly onshore, turning waves into choppy, short-period messes. The swell direction swings to ENE, NE, and E, delivering average heights around 1.7m but with periods barely scraping 8 seconds. While the occasional S swell sneaks through – usually from a Tasman low or tropical interaction – it's often ruined by accompanying SE or S winds. Only around 35% of the time do we see favorable offshore winds from the N-NW quadrant. Small, fun-sized waves are possible on light wind mornings, but this window is typically closed for serious surfing.

December: Midsummer Doldrums

December is the start of the full summer pattern. Average swell height is 1.7m, and the period languishes at 8.0s – short and uninspiring for a deep-water reef. The dominant swell directions are NE and ESE (each around 15-16%), producing weak, crumbly waves that seldom hold up. South and SSE swells still show up (29% combined), but they are often tainted by onshore SE-S winds. Ideal offshore winds drop to 36%, the second-lowest of the year. Most days feature the warm, gusty NE trade winds that destroy wave quality. The rare south swell with a NW wind can still produce fun, rippable waves, but such events are few and far between. For consistent quality surfing, it's best to look elsewhere in the region, or wait for the afternoon sea breeze to ease and a late-breaking cold front.