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 September, Alvor offers relatively consistent surf conditions with an average swell height of 1.1m and a solid period of 10.5s, indicating well-formed, rideable waves. The swell distribution shows that the dominant wave directions are NW and WNW, accounting for the majority of surfable waves, particularly in the 0.5-2.5m range. This suggests a mix of mid-sized, clean conditions ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers, though smaller days are also present. Wind conditions are favorable 38% of the time, with the most common offshore or light cross-shore winds coming from the E to SE—especially in the 10-20kph range—which helps maintain clean faces. However, stronger NW winds occasionally bring choppier conditions. Overall, September provides reliable surf with a good balance of size and rideability, making it a solid month for surfers in Alvor.