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Conditions at Backyards in May
May: Trade-Wind Swell Takes Over
May marks the official onset of the low season. Average swell drops to 5.9ft (1.8m) and the period weakens to 9.2s, putting it in the average, punchy category at best. ENE and E swells dominate - 32.9% and 20.3%, respectively - while the NW quadrant is largely absent, with the entire N/NW/NNW/WNW sector making up only 11.5%. These short-period windswell pulses lack the power and organization to make the most of Backyards' northwest orientation. Winds are firmly locked into the trade pattern: ENE 34.9% and E 39.0% of the time, with offshore S/SSW/SW/WSW winds barely registering. Ideal wind is only 20%. Expect groveling, bumpy conditions in the 4-6ft (1.2-1.8m) range, with the occasional cleaner morning. Water temperature is already 24.9°C, air temperature 24.3°C, and rains ease to 1.23mm/day.
Average Spot conditions at Backyards in May
Swell history for May
Wind history for May
Swell quality
Analyze the groundswell consistency at Backyards during May. 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 Backyards for your next trip in May.
Ground swell
Ground swell by size
Wind conditions
Evaluate the wind and swell alignment at Backyards for May. 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 Backyards.