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 July, Alvor offers small to medium-sized waves with an average swell height of 1.0m and a decent period of 8.6s, providing relatively clean and rideable conditions. The most consistent swell directions come from the NW and WNW, accounting for the majority of waves in the 0.5-1.5m range, with occasional larger sets up to 2.5m. However, bigger waves are rare, limiting high-performance surfing. Wind conditions are favorable for surfing only 34% of the time, with onshore winds (N, NW, and NNW) being the most frequent and strongest, often exceeding 20kph and creating choppy or blown-out conditions. Offshore or light cross-shore winds (E to SE) are less common but provide the best windows for cleaner waves. Overall, July in Alvor is best suited for beginner to intermediate surfers, as conditions are often small and wind-affected, though there are occasional clean days when wind and swell align. Advanced surfers may find it underwhelming unless a rare larger NW swell arrives with favorable wind.