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.

October: Autumn Unleashed

October is a turning point, with average swell jumping to 1.5m and period to 11.3s – good, solid waves return. The swell direction broadens to include WNW (33.3%) and NW (34.8%) along with a notable W component (12.5%). Strong extratropical storms begin to fire across the North Atlantic. Offshore wind frequency rises to 28%, favoring W to SSW breezes. When a low pressure system passes to the north, and a high builds over Europe, expect firing lines with light winds. October is prime time for epic sessions.