Map
Ponta Preta
Today's Surf Conditions at Ponta Preta
Spot Conditions Map
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Today's Surf & Wind Forecast (Hourly)
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Spot Overview & Description
Ponta Preta sits roughly a half-hour walk from Santa Maria, but the journey is well worth it for those who crave world-class, high-stakes surfing. This is not a wave for the faint of heart. The lineup is anchored by sharp black boulders that create a rugged, dramatic backdrop, and the ocean here demands respect. This spot is reserved for seasoned surfers who can handle its power and consequences. The star attraction is a long, fast right-hander that can reel off up to 300 meters over shallow, unforgiving rock. It lights up on a Northwest swell, with the magic starting around 4 feet (1.2 meters). Lefts are possible off the outside peak, but they are notoriously tricky and often end abruptly on the rocks. For the cleanest shape, aim for low to mid tide with light east winds. Expect a mix of fun barrel sections and speed walls, but make no mistake: this is expert-only territory. A single mistake can mean a costly wipeout over jagged reef. Getting out requires a well-timed paddle from the beach, especially through the shorebreak. On smaller days, you may need to sprint from the point to punch through. The ocean here is powerful, and missing a section can have serious consequences for both you and your board. For those with the skill and nerve, Ponta Preta offers one of the most thrilling rides on the island.
Best Surf Season & Climatology
Best Surf Season (October - March)
The heart of the North Atlantic winter delivers consistent, powerful groundswells to Ponta Preta. Average wave heights hover around 1.9–2.0 m with periods often reaching 10–11 seconds, thanks to a steady stream of extratropical lows tracking across the Atlantic. The dominant NNE-to-NE trade winds blow cleanly offshore, grooming the waves into punchy, organized lines. This is prime time for the famous right-hander to fire, with plenty of head-high to overhead sets. While the percentage of 'ideal wind' is moderate (10–25%), the sheer consistency of swell makes these months the go-to window for quality sessions.
Fair Surf Season (April - May & September)
As the winter storm track weakens, swell sizes dip slightly to around 1.6–1.7 m and periods shorten to 8–10 seconds. The trade winds remain favourable (mostly offshore from NE) but are occasionally lighter or more variable. April still sees decent swell from NNE, while September benefits from a resurgence of longer-period energy as early autumn lows begin to form. Surf is generally fun-sized, with plenty of rideable waves, but the truly pumping days become less frequent. Expect smaller, grovel-worthy waves on the quieter days.
Low Surf Season (June - August)
Summer brings the smallest and weakest surf of the year. Average swell heights drop to 1.3–1.4 m with periods averaging around 8 seconds or less—typically windswell or weak groundswell from the NNE. The trade winds are still present and actually blow offshore most of the time (ideal wind percentages peak near 47% in August), but the lack of significant swell energy limits the wave quality. On the rare occasion a south-westerly pulse or longer-period remnant arrives, conditions can be fun, but most days are reserved for longboarders, beginners, or complete flatness. This is the low season for serious surfing.
Detailed Surf Information for Ponta Preta
Detailed Surf Forecast
Access our detailed 8-day swell and wind forecast charts for Ponta Preta with tidal graphs, period ranges, and daily forecast text summaries.
Swell & Wind Statistics
Explore historical swell consistency, wave heights, and offshore wind windows month-by-month, compiled from over 40 years of data.
Historical Surf Report
Browse the historical database archives to view past wave reports and understand spot climatology during specific years and months.