Arpoador - surf spot statistics

Arpoador, Brazil, offers relatively consistent surf year-round, but the best conditions typically occur from February to August. During these months, ground swell percentages rise significantly, peaking in May (59%) and remaining strong through June and July (59% and 51%, respectively). Ground swells tend to produce cleaner, more organized waves compared to wind swells, which dominate the rest of the year. The mean swell size also increases during this period, averaging 1.1m to 1.3m, providing a good balance of power and rideability. Wind conditions are most favorable from January to June, with the highest likelihood of good winds in February (55%) and a steady decline from July onward. September through November sees the worst wind conditions, with onshore winds becoming more frequent (59-63% bad winds). While summer months (December-January) have smaller swell sizes (0.9m-1.0m) and higher wind swell influence, they still offer surfable waves, particularly when the ground swell component is present. For the most reliable surf with cleaner conditions, mid-year months (May-July) stand out due to the strong ground swell presence and manageable wind probabilities. However, those seeking smaller waves can still find opportunities in the shoulder seasons, though with greater variability in wind quality.

November at Arpoador offers decent surf conditions with an average swell height of 1.2m and a solid period of 9.8s, providing well-formed, rideable waves. The swell is predominantly from the south to southeast, with the highest frequency in the 1–1.5m range (17.1% from the south) and a notable percentage of larger sets (1.5–2.5m). This suggests consistent mid-sized waves with occasional larger peaks, ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. Offshore winds, crucial for clean conditions, occur 39% of the time, primarily from the northeast to east, while onshore winds from the southeast can affect wave quality. Wind speeds are generally manageable, mostly under 20kph, but stronger gusts from the east-southeast may occasionally disrupt conditions. Overall, November delivers reliable surf at Arpoador, with best sessions likely when swell aligns with light offshore winds.