Alibaba - surf spot statistics

Alibaba in Cape Verde offers consistent surf conditions year-round, but the best months for advanced surfers are clearly from October through March. During this period, ground swell dominates, with November and December standing out as prime months—ground swell peaks at 78-79%, accompanied by the lowest wind swell interference (21-22%). Swell size averages a solid 1.8-2.1m, providing powerful, clean waves. Wind conditions are also most favorable in these months, with good wind days occurring 68-76% of the time, particularly in November (76% good winds). January and February maintain strong ground swell (61-64%) and reliable winds (65-68% favorable), though slightly less consistent than late autumn. March and April see a gradual drop in wind quality (57-62% good days) but still deliver decent ground swell (63-67%). From May to September, conditions deteriorate significantly: wind swell dominates (77-95%), swell size shrinks (1.3-1.6m), and onshore winds ruin most days (only 11-43% clean wind days). Summer months (June-August) are particularly poor, with tiny swells (1.3-1.5m) and strong onshore winds (78-89% bad conditions). September marks a transition, with improving ground swell (33%) but still marginal winds (30% good). For high-performance surfing, prioritize November to February—optimal swell power, cleanest conditions, and minimal wind interference.

January at Alibaba, Cape Verde, offers consistent and surfable conditions for experienced riders. The average swell height is 2.0m with a solid 11.9s period, providing powerful, well-spaced waves. The predominant swell directions are NNE and NNW, delivering 1.5-2.5m waves over 60% of the time, ensuring quality setups with good energy. Wind is favorable for surfing 68% of the month, mostly blowing from the NE-ENE sector at 10-30kph—ideal offshore or cross-offshore conditions that keep waves clean. Stronger winds (20-30kph) occur but rarely disrupt the surf. Smaller or weaker swells are rare, making January a reliable month for overhead, barreling waves with minimal wind interference. Advanced surfers will find prime conditions, though the raw power demands respect.