Alvor - surf spot statistics

Alvor in Portugal offers surfable conditions year-round, but the best months for surfers seeking quality waves and favorable winds are typically from October to March. During this period, ground swell dominates, with percentages ranging from 62% in October and April to 88% in January, ensuring more consistent and powerful waves. The mean swell size is also larger, averaging 1.4m to 1.9m, with the biggest waves occurring in January, February, and December (1.9m). Wind conditions are less ideal, with bad winds (onshore or cross-shore) prevailing around 65-70% of the time, but there are still plenty of rideable days with good offshore winds (30-35%). The shoulder months of September and April can still provide decent surf, albeit with smaller swells (1.1m-1.5m) and slightly better wind conditions (38% good winds in September). From May to August, the surf quality drops significantly as wind swells take over, resulting in smaller, less consistent waves (1.0m-1.2m) despite marginally better wind conditions (33-36% good winds). July and August see the highest wind swell influence (81% and 74%) but remain the worst months for serious surfers due to weak swells. Overall, winter months (November-February) are prime for experienced surfers chasing solid ground swells, while intermediate surfers may find late autumn (October) and early spring (March-April) more forgiving.

In April, Alvor offers surfers a mixed but generally favorable setup with an average swell height of 1.5m and a solid period of 11.1s, indicating well-organized, clean waves. The predominant swell directions are from the WNW, NW, and WSW, with WNW producing the highest percentage of surfable waves (peaking in the 1-2.5m range). These westerly swells, combined with the spot’s orientation, create consistent, rideable conditions. Wind is a key variable: only 27% of the time is it ideal (typically light offshore or sideshore from E/NE), but the dominant winds from the NW/WNW (10–30kph) can cause choppiness. ESE/SE winds, though less frequent, are the best for clean faces. Expect smaller, manageable waves (1-1.5m) most days, with occasional punchier sets (1.5–2.5m) when WNW/NW energy peaks. Spring mornings often see lighter winds, while afternoons risk bumpiness. Advanced surfers will find the most opportunities on W/NW swells with E/NE winds, while beginners can capitalize on the more frequent 1-1.5m days with softer ESE/SE breezes. Overall, April delivers decent consistency, but patience and timing are key to scoring the best sessions.