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.

November in Alvor offers decent surf conditions with an average swell height of 1.6m and a solid period of 11.8s, delivering consistent energy for quality waves. The predominant swell directions are NW and WNW, which make up the bulk of the swell distribution, providing well-organized, rideable waves in the 1-2.5m range. Smaller swells from the SW and WSW also contribute, adding variety. Wind conditions are favorable 31% of the time, mostly coming from the eastern quadrants (E, ESE, SE), which tend to be offshore or light cross-shore, ideal for clean faces. However, stronger winds from the NNW and N can occasionally create choppier conditions, particularly at higher speeds (20-30kph). Overall, November is a reliable month for surfers who can handle mid-sized swells and capitalize on the frequent offshore winds to score clean, powerful waves.