Cardoso - surf spot statistics

Cardoso in Brazil offers surfable waves year-round, with conditions varying significantly across seasons. The best months for surfing are typically from April to September, when ground swell percentages increase, wind conditions stabilize slightly, and swell size peaks. During this period, ground swell contributions range from 30% to 43%, providing better-quality, more consistent waves compared to wind swells, which dominate the rest of the year. May stands out with the highest ground swell influence (43%) and a mean swell size of 2.0m, though wind conditions remain challenging with only 20% good wind days. September sees the largest swells (2.2m), but poor wind conditions (89% bad winds) can be limiting. From October to March, wind swells overwhelmingly dominate (79–84%), and while the waves remain rideable, they tend to be less clean and smaller (1.6–1.9m). Wind conditions are generally unfavorable throughout the year, with good wind days rarely exceeding 20%. Surfers looking for the best compromise should target April to July, where ground swells are decent (35–42%), and wind conditions, though still poor, are slightly less severe than later in the season. The spot is best suited for experienced surfers who can handle onshore winds and mixed swell conditions.

In April, Cardoso offers decent surfing conditions with an average swell height of 1.8m and a solid period of 9.6s, generating consistent, well-formed waves. The swell is predominantly from the south (S, SSE, and SE), providing the best energy for surfers, with the highest frequency of rideable waves (1.5-2.5m) coming from these directions. Notably, S swells deliver the largest waves, often exceeding 2.5m, making it ideal for experienced surfers. ENE and NE swells also contribute, though less frequently, adding some variety. Wind conditions are less favorable, with only 18% of the time offering ideal offshore or light cross-shore winds (typically ENE-E). Stronger onshore winds from NNE and NE can disrupt wave quality, especially at higher speeds (20-40kph). Overall, patience is key—when winds align, Cardoso can produce powerful, clean waves, but inconsistent wind patterns mean surfers should monitor forecasts closely for optimal sessions.