Zurriola - surf spot statistics

Zurriola in Spain offers the most consistent surf conditions during the winter months, particularly from October through February, when ground swell dominates with percentages ranging from 65% to 85%. The mean swell size during this period averages between 1.2m and 1.6m, providing solid wave energy for intermediate to advanced surfers. However, wind conditions are less favorable in these months, with bad onshore winds occurring 65–68% of the time, peaking in December and January. The best window for cleaner conditions is typically in October and November, when good wind days reach 32–35%. Spring (March–May) sees a gradual decline in ground swell (40–76%) and an increase in wind swell, while summer (June–August) delivers smaller, less reliable waves (0.8m mean size) dominated by wind swell, coupled with poor wind conditions (79–84% bad winds). September marks the transition back to better ground swell (47%) and slightly improved winds (26% good), making early autumn a reasonable alternative if winter conditions are too crowded or unruly. For the most powerful and consistent surf, target October–February, but expect challenging winds—early sessions or sheltered spots may help mitigate this. Summer is best suited for beginners due to smaller waves, though wind interference remains an issue.

June at Zurriola offers generally small but clean surf, with an average swell height of 0.8m and a decent period of 9.5s, providing some rideable waves despite the modest size. The majority of swells come from the NW, WNW, and NNW, with the largest distribution in the 0.5-1.5m range, making it a reliable direction for consistent, manageable waves. However, overhead waves (over 2m) are rare, occurring less than 2% of the time. Wind conditions are mixed—only 16% of the time is the wind ideal (light offshore or sideshore), while moderate onshore winds (W, WNW) are more common, potentially creating chop. The best sessions will likely come during early mornings or periods when NW swells coincide with lighter winds. Advanced surfers may find the smaller conditions limiting, but beginners and intermediates can take advantage of the manageable waves when winds cooperate. It's not a high-performance month, but there are windows for fun surf.