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.

October at Alvor offers solid surf conditions with a mix of swells suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers. The average swell height is 1.4m with a strong period of 11.2s, providing well-formed and powerful waves. The dominant swell directions are NW and WNW, accounting for the majority of rideable waves (1-2.5m range), frequently delivering clean, lined-up sets. Cross-shore winds are favorable 35% of the time, particularly when they come from the NE to E quadrant, keeping conditions clean. However, stronger W/SW winds can occasionally create choppier surfaces. Expect the best sessions on mid-sized NW swells (1.5-2.5m) paired with light offshore winds—ideal for performance surfing. Smaller days (0.5-1.5m) from the SW/WSW offer more mellow options, though less consistent. Wind is the main variable, with N/NW gusts occasionally disrupting conditions, but overall, October delivers reliable surf with a good balance of power and shape.