Yport - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (October - March)

Yport comes alive during the winter months as the North Atlantic cranks out consistent swell trains. Average wave heights range from 1.2m to 1.5m with periods averaging 7-8 seconds, providing punchy, rideable waves. The dominant swell directions from the west and southwest wrap around the Cotentin Peninsula, but the real gem is when a cold front pushes through and winds clock to the south, turning the sea glassy. The frequency of offshore winds (S, SSW, SW) peaks during this window, creating the most reliable surf at this north-facing beach. Deep low-pressure systems tracking across the British Isles generate the largest NW and NNW groundswells that hit Yport with maximum energy.

Fair Surf Season (April - June & September)

Spring and early autumn bring a noticeable drop in swell energy. Average heights fall to 0.8-0.9m and periods shorten to 6-7s, meaning smaller, more chop-dependent surf. The wind pattern shifts towards more variable directions, with NE and ENE breezes dominating, which are cross-shore at best. However, occasional warm fronts can still deliver S-SSW flow and a pulse of W swell, offering fun-sized waves on a groveler or fish. The increased daylight and warmer air temps make it worth the wait.

Low Surf Season (July - August)

High summer is the quietest period for Yport. Swell heights average under 1m and periods linger around 6 seconds, producing mostly short-period wind chop. The dominant wind flow becomes westerly and northwesterly, which blows directly onshore at this north-facing beach, ruining any chance of quality. Offshore winds from the south become rare (only 11-12% ideal). This is the time to explore other spots or take a break. Still, occasional long-period remnants of tropical storms can inject a few clean days.

December: Peak Winter Arrives

December sees the arrival of peak winter conditions, with average swell height at 1.5m and period at 7.8s. Swell is heavily weighted toward W (19.5%) and WSW (18.5%), but the north quadrant (NNE 3.2%, NW 3.6%, NNW 5.2%) makes a solid contribution. Offshore wind frequency is 13%, with SSW (13.3%) and SW (12.6%) remaining the dominant wind directions for quality conditions. The combination of longer-period swell (7-8s average) and frequent storms means there are more days with powerful, 1.5-2.5m waves. When the NAO index dips negative, persistent high pressure over southern Europe locks in cool, dry southerly flow, providing weeks of clean, offshore surf. December is a prime month for experienced surfers to score pumping waves at Yport.