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 February, Alvor offers decent surf conditions with an average swell height of 1.9m and a solid period of 12.6s, ensuring consistent, well-formed waves. The most favorable swells come from the WNW and NW directions, contributing to the majority of rideable waves (1-2.5m), with WNW swells dominating in both frequency and size. Crossshore or light offshore winds are ideal 29% of the time, primarily when winds are easterly (ENE to ESE) or light northerly, while stronger onshore winds from the W to NW can occasionally disrupt conditions. Wind speeds are generally manageable, with the majority below 30kph, though stronger gusts (20-50kph) from northerly or westerly directions may affect sessions. Overall, February provides good surf opportunities, particularly when winds align favorably—expect clean, mid-sized waves on NW/WNW swells, but watch for onshore wind interference.