Conditions at Cap Gris-Nez in October
October: The Atlantic Roars Back
October is where the surf year truly begins. The average swell height rises to 2.5-3ft (0.8m), the period moves up to 5.1s, and the ideal-surf frequency jumps to 7%, with more to come in November. The wave rose is quickly being taken over by SW (19.3%), SSW (11.8%) and WSW (12.1%), but the north window at 23% still includes useful NE (7.5%), NNE (6.9%) and NNW (4.1%) swells, with increased numbers of 3-5ft (1-1.5m) and 5-6.5ft (1.5-2m) waves compared to summer. Wind data show the offshore S/SSW/SW flow strengthening to just over 30% - ideal for grooming the north-facing shoreline. As the Icelandic Low deepens and the jet stream pushes troughs across the British Isles, each passing low can generate a punchy north sea windswell. Water sits at 15.6°C, air at 12.8°C, and rain increases to 2.61mm/day. October is the month when excuses evaporate and the wetsuit hood comes back out.
Average Spot conditions at Cap Gris-Nez in October
Swell history for October
Wind history for October
Swell quality
Analyze the groundswell consistency at Cap Gris-Nez during October. Based on historical data, there is a % probability of groundswell occurring this month. The chart below provides a detailed breakdown of the average wave height distribution, offering deep insights into the swell quality and surf potential you can expect at Cap Gris-Nez for your next trip in October.
Ground swell
Ground swell by size
Wind conditions
Evaluate the wind and swell alignment at Cap Gris-Nez for October. Our analysis shows that favorable offshore or side-shore winds coincide with surfable swell approximately % of the time. The accompanying graph illustrates the average size distribution of waves during these optimal wind windows at Cap Gris-Nez.