Bico - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (October - March)

The North Atlantic winter machine is in full swing during these months, delivering consistent, powerful swell from the W-NW quadrant. Average wave heights range from 1.7m to 2.0m with long periods (12-13s), meaning pumping, firing conditions at Bico`s NW-facing beach. Offshore wind frequencies are at their highest, with 29-42% of the time blowing from the E through SSW quadrants, often associated with high pressure over continental Europe. Storms track across the North Atlantic, generating XL groundswells that wrap into Bico with epic, heavy power. This is prime time for experienced surfers to chase barrels and big waves.

Fair Surf Season (April - May)

As spring arrives, the North Atlantic storm track shifts northward, reducing the frequency and intensity of swell. Average wave heights drop to 1.2-1.5m with periods around 10-11s, offering fun, good, rippable conditions when the swell aligns. Offshore wind percentages decrease to 15-19%, but lighter wind regimes are common. The swell direction remains dominated by NW and WNW, but wind patterns become more variable with increased northerly and northwesterly breezes, which are onshore and detrimental at Bico. April and May can still deliver excellent sessions, especially with a negative NAO phase steering lows further south.

Low Surf Season (June - September)

Summer in the North Atlantic is generally quiet for surf. Swell heights average 1.0-1.1m with short periods (8.7-10.5s), resulting in small, groveling waves for the most part. The dominant swell direction becomes NW, but the energy is low. Offshore wind percentages drop to a meager 4-15%, with persistent northerly and northwesterly winds (sea breeze and trade wind influence) that wreak havoc on wave quality. The summer months are characterized by choppy, messy conditions. Only occasional late-season tropical storm swells or early autumn cold fronts can bring punchy waves, but consistent quality is rare. This is the time for longboarders and beginners, or a season to travel.

April: Spring Mix – Potential for Fun

April brings the first significant drop in average swell to 1.5m and period to 11.1s, yet still offers fun, solid days. NW (30.9%) and WNW (36.7%) remain the primary swell directions, with many observations in the 1-1.5m range – ideal for rippable waves. However, ideal wind plummets to 19%, as northerly winds strengthen (NNW 18.2%, N 13.1%). The window for clean offshore winds is narrower, but when a high pressure system parks over Europe, light SE to SW winds can create good conditions. April is a month of patience and timing.