Satellite Beach • Statistics for March

March: Spring Transition, Still Some Bite

March maintains an average swell around 3ft (0.9m) and the period jumps to 8.6s, so there is still plenty of rideable power. E and ENE swells are the core contributors, with NE and ESE bringing supporting surf; combined, the favorable directions make up 72% of the wave spectrum. While the severe winter swells begin to fade, the 3-5ft (0.9-1.5m) band remains well represented, especially from ENE. The biggest limitation is the increasing easterly trade wind and afternoon sea breeze: ENE, E and ESE wind totals climb toward the top of the compass, while the ideal-wind statistic falls to 14%. Still, early-spring lows and late-season fronts can produce fun, clean 3-5ft (0.9-1.5m) days on the mid-morning high tide. Water temp warms to 71F (21.9C), making the transition more comfortable.