Virac Harbour - surf spot statistics

Virac Harbour in the Philippines is primarily wind swell-dominated, with ground swells playing a minor role throughout the year. The best conditions for surfers are typically found from September to November, when ground swell contributions peak (30-31%), and wind conditions improve significantly (25-26% good wind days). During these months, the mean swell size ranges from 0.9m in September to 1.9m in November, offering more consistent and cleaner waves compared to other periods. The worst conditions occur from January to February and December, where bad wind conditions dominate (92-94%) despite decent swell sizes (2.0-2.3m), making it challenging for surfers due to onshore winds. May to August sees smaller swells (0.8-1.3m) and still poor wind conditions, though July and August show slight improvements with 14-15% good wind days. March and April offer a transitional phase with moderate ground swell influence (15-18%) but remain hampered by high rates of bad winds (91-93%). Overall, autumn (September-November) stands out as the prime window for surfable waves with better wind alignment, while winter months bring larger but messier conditions. Summer months (May-August) are generally less favorable due to inconsistent swells and persistent onshore winds.

July at Virac Harbour offers relatively small but rideable waves, with an average swell height of 0.8m and a decent period of 8.6s, indicating consistent energy. The most dominant swell directions are ENE and E, contributing frequently to waves in the 0.5-1.5m range, with ENE swells providing the largest share (29.68% in the 0.5-1m category). The SSW and SW directions occasionally bring slightly bigger waves (1-2.5m), but these are less common. Wind conditions are less favorable, with only 14% of the time offering ideal surfing winds. The predominant winds come from the E and ESE at moderate speeds (10-20kph), which can create chop, while stronger SW winds (20-40kph) occur but less frequently. Overall, July is a mixed month—best suited for surfers comfortable with smaller waves and occasional wind-affected conditions, with the best opportunities arising when ENE swells combine with lighter winds.