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.

March at Virac Harbour offers moderately consistent surf with an average swell height of 1.7m and a decent period of 9.2s, indicating reasonably clean and well-spaced waves. The dominant swell directions are ENE (38.5%) and NE (18.3%), delivering the majority of rideable waves in the 1–2.5m range, with ENE swells frequently producing the best conditions (15.95% at 1.5–2m). Wind is the limiting factor—only 7% of the time is it ideal (typically light E/NE breezes). However, ENE winds (15–30kph) prevail 31.9% of the time, which can create choppy or cross-shore conditions. Smaller E swells (9.7% at 0.5–1m) may offer cleaner but weaker waves. Expect mostly waist-to-head-high surf with occasional overhead sets on stronger ENE pulses. Wind management is key; dawn patrols or sheltered sections will maximize quality. Not epic, but definitely surfable with selective timing.